Hundreds Of Animals And Plants In Italy At Risk Of Extinction

Some 194 plant specimens and 161 animal species in Italy are at risk of extinction, according to a new report. A report released by the Ministero dell’Ambiente (Environment Ministry) and the Federparchi (Italian Federation of Parks and Nature Reserves) lists species in danger to form the Lista Rossa Unione Internazionale per la Conservazione della Natura delle Specie Minacciate (International Union for Nature Conservation Red List of Threatened Species). Among the endangered species are sea, lake and river fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals, as well as flora. Threats are the consequence of pollution and the loss of natural habitats. Federparchi president Giampiero Sammuri said: “Italy’s geographical, climatic and historical characteristics of Italy have allowed a diverse and rich biodiversity to settle over time. This wealth is recognised worldwide. We have a responsibility to monitor and safeguard this natural capital.” The report was released at the same time as a the results of a study conducted by the World Wildlife Fund in Italy that reveals as many as 175 species and 10 natural habitats have disappeared from the country’s landscape. The study shows habitats and natural species that are under threat from climate change and destruction.