Asian floral and faunal species are threatened by fragmentation, physical alteration, habitat loss, pollution, introduction of exotic species and overexploitation of ecosystems. About 20 per cent of world's freshwater fish species have become extinct, many of them endemic to Asia. Be it mammals, birds or reptiles, they all suffer a similar fate. In Indonesia, nearly one-fourth of mammals are classified as threatened. Plant species fare no better. In India more than 700 higher plant species are threatened. Large populations in Asian countries directly depend on natural resources like forests and fisheries. Their fate, too, hangs in the balance.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.