A new critically endangered killifish species, Nothobranchius sylvaticus, has been identified in Kenya’s Gongoni Forest. Research indicates this ancient forest’s lineage dates back over 7 million years. The study underscores the species’ conservation risks due to its limited habitat, led by a team including Prof. Dirk Bellstedt.
In recent research covered in the journal Zootaxa, a critically endangered species of killifish, named Nothobranchius sylvaticus, has been identified from an ancient forest in Kenya. This species, with its name meaning ‘pertaining to the forest’, is noteworthy as it is the first endemic killifish known to inhabit a forest environment. The sampling occurred during expeditions in 2017 and 2018 as part of a project funded by the Volkswagen Foundation.
The discovery of Nothobranchius sylvaticus highlights the rich biodiversity of ancient forests and their ecological significance. The research team’s efforts emphasize the ancient geological history of the Gongoni Forest, while also showcasing the urgent conservation needs for such restricted species. The implications of this discovery extend to understanding evolutionary dynamics and regional tectonic activities over millions of years.
Original Source: www.sun.ac.za
