#biodiversity

Thai-American snake expert Christopher Shannon leads an exploration of Bangkok's urban wildlife, highlighting the biodiversity that exists close to the city's center. The nocturnal adventure features various species, including Asian long-nosed vine snakes and flying foxes, showcasing the thriving wildlife in an urban environment.

A study from the University of Cape Town indicates that savanna grasses may be more effective than trees in storing carbon, raising questions about the impact of tree planting on biodiversity in African savannas. The research suggests that promoting grass growth could be more beneficial for carbon storage in these ecosystems.

Kazimzumbwi Nature Forest Reserve, located about 20 kilometres southwest of Dar es Salaam, spans approximately 48.8 square kilometres in the Pugu and Kisarawe districts. It, along with the adjacent Pugu Forest Reserve, represents one of the last remnants of the ancient East African coastal lowland forest ecosystem, which is significant for its biodiversity, including various species such as millipedes.

Nigerian biologist Rachel Ikemeh has been awarded the 2026 Rolex Award for her significant contributions to conservation in the Niger Delta. Her community-led project has protected thousands of hectares of forest and has successfully doubled the population of the critically endangered red colobus monkey, according to BellaNaija.

The demand for critical minerals such as lithium, vanadium, copper, and cobalt, driven by the global transition to green energy, has implications for deforestation in Africa. Sub-Saharan Africa contains about 30% of the world's mineral reserves, including significant amounts of platinum, chromium, manganese, and cobalt, much of which is located beneath biodiverse forests that play a crucial role in carbon capture and soil health, according to The Conversation Africa.

The Technopolis Development Authority has successfully conducted a drone-assisted seedball broadcasting exercise at the Konza Technopolis, aimed at restoring the Konza Wildlife Conservancy. This initiative is part of efforts to enhance the local ecosystem and promote biodiversity in the area.

Eastern Angola, particularly the highlands of the Moxico provinces, has remained isolated and understudied despite its rich biodiversity and cultural history. The region's political history, including its independence from Portugal in 1975 and a subsequent 27-year civil war, has contributed to this isolation. The impact of these historical events has influenced local agricultural practices, particularly the use of controlled fires by farmers to manage dry fuel near villages.

Experts in conservation and wildlife management have highlighted the importance of research in protecting Uganda's biodiversity. They advocate for enhanced collaboration, data-driven interventions, and coordinated actions among institutions. This was discussed at the inaugural National Biodiversity and Innovation Research symposium, where John Makombo, Commissioner for Biodiversity Management at Uganda Wildlife Authority, stressed the critical role of research in these efforts.