Lists of IUCN Red List near threatened species facts for kids
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species helps us understand which plants and animals around the world are in danger. On 12 March 2010, the Red List showed that 3,829 different kinds of living things were considered "near threatened." This included 2,657 animals and 1,172 plants. Being "near threatened" means these species are not yet in immediate danger of disappearing, but they could become threatened if we don't protect them. It's like a yellow warning light, telling us to pay attention before it's too late.
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What Does "Near Threatened" Mean?
The IUCN Red List uses different categories to show how much risk a species faces. These categories range from "Least Concern" (meaning they are doing well) to "Extinct" (meaning they have all died out). "Near threatened" is a very important category. It means a species is close to qualifying for a more serious threat category, like "Vulnerable," "Endangered," or "Critically Endangered." It's a sign that their populations are decreasing, or their habitats are shrinking.
Scientists look at many things to decide if a species is "near threatened." They check how many individuals are left, how fast their numbers are dropping, and if their homes are being destroyed. For example, if a forest where a certain animal lives is being cut down quickly, that animal might become "near threatened." This category helps conservationists know which species need extra attention and protection efforts right now.
Animals on the Edge
In 2010, a large number of animals were listed as "near threatened." This included many different types of creatures from all over the world.
- Amphibians: These are animals like frogs and salamanders. They often live in both water and on land.
- Birds: Many bird species were also on the list, from small songbirds to larger birds of prey.
- Fish: Fish living in oceans, rivers, and lakes can also be at risk, especially from pollution or overfishing.
- Invertebrates: This huge group includes animals without backbones, like insects and molluscs.
- Arthropods: This group includes insects, spiders, and crabs. Many insects play vital roles in nature, like pollinating plants.
- Molluscs: These are soft-bodied animals, often with shells, like snails, clams, and octopuses.
- Mammals: Mammals are warm-blooded animals with fur or hair, like bears, monkeys, and bats.
- Reptiles: This group includes animals like snakes, lizards, and turtles.
You can find more detailed lists for each group:
- List of near threatened amphibians
- List of near threatened birds
- List of near threatened fishes
- List of near threatened invertebrates
- List of near threatened mammals
- List of near threatened reptiles
Plants and Fungi: Also at Risk
Plants and fungi are just as important as animals for a healthy planet. In 2010, over a thousand plant species were listed as "near threatened." Fungi, which include mushrooms and yeasts, also had species on the list.
- Fungi (kingdom Fungi) — IUCN Red List near threatened species (Fungi)
- Plants (kingdom Plantae) — IUCN Red List near threatened species (Plantae)
Plants provide us with food, oxygen, and medicines. They also create habitats for animals. Fungi help break down dead material and recycle nutrients in the soil. When these species become "near threatened," it can affect entire ecosystems. Protecting them helps keep our planet's natural systems working well.
Why Protecting These Species Matters
Every species plays a role in the natural world. When a species becomes "near threatened," it's a warning sign that something might be wrong with its environment. This could be due to things like climate change, pollution, or humans building over their habitats. By protecting "near threatened" species, we are also protecting the places they live and the other species that depend on them. It helps keep our planet's biodiversity strong and healthy for everyone.
See also
- IUCN Red List conservation dependent species
