Giraffes Divided into Four Species in Groundbreaking Study
A groundbreaking study has divided giraffes into four distinct species, a significant step in understanding and preserving these iconic creatures. The Southern giraffe, numbering around 69,000, is the most abundant, but all species face unique threats.
Previously considered a single species, giraffes are now classified as Northern, Reticulated, Masai, and Southern, based on genetic analyses and physical features. Advances in genome sequencing, reducing costs to about $100 per sample, enabled this discovery.
The Northern giraffe, with only 7,000 individuals, is the most critically endangered. Political instability, trophy hunting, and poaching threaten its survival. The Masai giraffe, numbering approximately 44,000, faces habitat loss due to savanna conversion for livestock grazing. The Reticulated giraffe, with around 21,000, is recognised by its distinctive, spotted coat.
Main protected regions include national parks and private conservation areas across Africa. However, these areas face threats from agricultural expansion, infrastructure development, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Each species requires tailored conservation measures, as uniform strategies are no longer sufficient.
The new classification highlights the urgent need for species- and region-specific conservation programs. While the Southern giraffe is the most numerous, all four species face unique challenges. Concerted efforts are required to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats.
