A hedgehog with fangs and a shrew lighter than a pound coin are among a remarkable 234 new species discovered in the Greater Mekong region in 2023, according to a new report compiled by WWF.
Researchers in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam along with experts from conservation organisations and research institutes worldwide, described 173 plants, 26 reptiles, 17 amphibians, 15 fish and three mammals previously unknown to science.
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The vampire hedgehog
Highlights of the report include Hylomys makarong – a new species of gymnure (rhymes with “demure”) that is a furry member of the hedgehog family, found in Vietnam.
While it is not quite as prickly as its hedgehog cousin, its species name, macarong, comes from the Vietnamese word for vampire, on account of its long fangs.
Also among the discoveries are a pit viper with scales around its eyes like eyelashes, and a shrew mole that weighs only 8g – putting it within the top 10 lightest species of terrestrial mammal on Earth.
A biodiversity hotspot
The variety of new discoveries showcase the Greater Mekong as one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots. However, many of the species are already at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, deforestation and illegal wildlife trade.
WWF is calling on governments in the region to strengthen protection for these rare, amazing creatures and their habitats and commit to reversing the loss of nature by 2030.
Urgent call for action
Mark Wright, WWF-UK’s special advisor, said: “These new findings remind us of the extraordinary diversity and inventiveness of nature which can provoke a childish wonder and delight in us all.
“Sadly, it is also a timely reminder of the extreme jeopardy that so many of these species and habitats face, and what we risk losing if urgent and committed action is not taken.
“We urgently need governments to recognise the value of nature and commit to halting and reversing its destruction by 2030.”
Chris Hallam, WWF-Asia Pacific regional wildlife lead, added:
“Although these species were just described by science last year, they have been living in the unique habitats of our region for many millennia.
“Each of these species is a critical piece of a functioning, healthy ecosystem and a jewel in the region's rich natural heritage.”
What is the Greater Mekong?
The Greater Mekong is a region in Southeast Asia that includes six countries – China, Myanmar, Lao PDR, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam – and the Mekong River. The vast region is home to rare wildlife in spectacular natural landscapes, and communities with distinct cultural heritages. Its 200 million acres contain some of the most biologically diverse habitats in the world.