With one-fifth of the world’s species threatened, “The backbone of diversity is being eroded,” said ecologist and writer Professor Edward O Wilson. But it’s possible to prevent it, says a paper to be published in the journal Science. It cites over 60 instances where conservation efforts have helped stave off the extinction of species. Indian author Suhel Quader of the National Centre for Biological Sciences in Bangalore points out that we have saved the rhinoceros and vulture species in India. It’s the gharial, with only 200 breeding adults in existence, who need a massive conservation effort. Says Quader, “It’s clear conservation efforts can work. Now is the time to support and implement programmes in India guided by conservation science which are sensitive to local communities needs.”
