|
|
More news |
| Magnolia species risk extinction in their native habitats | |
| A Red List of endangered species identifies the threats to the existence of Magnolia species including the destruction of habitat for use by agriculture and over-exploitation. The mapping exercise indicates that, worldwide, 131 wild species from a total of 245 are in danger of extinction. Magnolias are highly sensitive indicators of the well-being of the forests in which they are found. Magnolias are among the most ancient groups of flowering plants cultivated by man. There is a strong chance that many species will become extinct if immediate conservation action is not taken. The BGCI (Botanic Gardens Conservation International) has launched a survey of botanic garden collections of threatened Magnolia species and will ensure integrated conservation measures are implemented. This organization together with FFI (Fauna and Flora International) are collaborating through the Global Trees Campaign to boost conservation measures for threatened wild Magnolia species. The work is co-authored by Professor Adrian Newton and Daniele Cicuzza of the Environmental and Geographical Sciences Group at Bournmouth University together with Sara Oldfield of the BGCI. “Alphagalileo”, E-mail: celder@bournemouth.ac.uk Copy of the Red List report is available on the Bournemouth University website: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/newsandevents/News/april07/mapping_exercise_reveals_extent_of_magnolia_decline.html |
|