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Ancient Cod Faces Extinction in Australian Rainforest
27 Dec
Summary
- A unique tropical cod species has existed for millions of years.
- Cyclone Jasper and introduced predators threaten its survival.
- Scientists are racing to secure legal protection for the fish.
A unique tropical cod, a relic from millions of years ago, inhabits a nine-mile stretch of Australia's Bloomfield River. Discovered in 1993, this tiny fish, growing only to 10 centimeters, is now critically endangered. Its ancient lineage is threatened by introduced predators, such as the Tully Grunter, which compete for food and prey on its young.
Violent storms, intensified by global warming, pose another significant threat. Cyclone Jasper, one of Australia's most destructive cyclones, recently battered the cod's habitat, increasing predation and altering its environment. This extreme weather event, with record rainfall in December 2023, caused widespread damage.
Scientists are now campaigning for the Bloomfield River Cod (Guyu wujalwujalensis) to be formally listed as endangered. This classification is vital for implementing conservation measures and preventing the extinction of a species representing a long and complex evolutionary period.
