We live amongst nearly 400,000 plants — but that number is at risk of shrinking. Discover which of these are most endangered and what you can do to protect them.
This WORLD WILDLIFE DAY, we're placing the spotlight on plants that have been labeled endangered.
Although species of animals often receive the most media attention and funding for conservation; thousands of plant species are also in dire need of protection. All endangered plants face similar issues due to the ongoing threat of climate change impacting the entire globe. We’ve compiled a list of critically endangered plant species that require our immediate attention:
- Baobab: This mystical tree is regarded as the tree of life for good reason. Growing 30 meters (98 feet) tall in 32 African countries, the properties of this tree make it truly special. Every part of the tree serves a purpose; offering food, shelter, and other resources for both animals and humans. The baobab tree can live for over 3,000 years, which has researchers stumped — why is such a sturdy tree suddenly struggling to survive? Only 200 baobabs remain across Africa, which scientists believe is due to climate change. A movement to regrow baobabs is taking place, but if these keystone species don't take root and grow — the entire ecosystem that relies on them will be threatened.
- Monkey puzzle: The monkey puzzle tree is another ancient plant phenomena, with origins dating to the Jurassic era. Although the monkey puzzle tree has been around to see the extinction of dinosaurs and the evolution of thousands of species — they might not be around for much longer if changes aren't made. The monkey puzzle tree can now only be found in Patagonia, where it produces pine nuts enjoyed by parakeets native to the area. To encourage the growth of new trees, a permit is required to harvest the monkey puzzle seeds in an effort to take them off the endangered list.
- Jade vine: The otherworldly jade vine is native to the Philippines and serves both biological and cultural importance. It's beautiful green hue almost appears to glow; storing nectar that attracts bats who aid in pollination. The jade vine is critically endangered and, sadly, rarely thrives in cultivation — preferring its natural habitat. This makes it a challenging plant species to conserve. Our best chance at preserving this unique plant is to prevent further habitat destruction.
Despite the regional and biological difference of the baobab tree, monkey puzzle tree, and the jade vine, these plants face two common threats: habitat destruction and climate change. In order for these biological wonders to survive, additional support is critically needed. Though they are endangered, they are not yet extinct — meaning, they still have a chance at survival.
Let's protect plant BIODIVERSITY. Donate now with VAKOVAKO.
