There studded breed (Urolophus javanicus) was recently declared extinctmarking a dramatic point of no return in the history of marine biodiversity. It is in fact the first marine fish confirmed to be extinct cause of human activities.
This species, about which very little is known, was documented for the last time in 1862when a 33 cm long specimen was purchased at a fish market in Jakarta and subsequently preserved in the Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin.
The disappearance of the studded breed is attributed mainly to the overfishing and to habitat destruction along the northern coast of Java, a highly industrialized area. Fishing pressure began to reduce catches as early as the 19th century, with a significant decline in local marine species.
No specimens sighted for over two decades
Despite monitoring efforts by local fishermen for over two decades, no other specimens have been sightedleading scientists to conclude its extinction. The declaration of extinction was made after a thorough assessment conducted by Julia Constance and her team at Charles Darwin University, in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Using data analysis models and Indonesian fishing records, it was determined that there was a 93.5% chance that the studded race was extinct. However, this conclusion has sparked controversy. Some scientists wonder whether it was actually a distinct species and underline the difficulty of studying such a rare creature. Declaring extinct also raises ethical and scientific questions regarding conservation, as a species declared extinct can lose priority in protection programs.
The extinction of the stingray highlights the vulnerability of marine species and the need for more effective conservation actions. The loss of this species not only represents a defeat for biodiversity, but also serves as a warning about the fragility of marine ecosystems and on the devastating impact of human activitiesAnd. If action is not taken promptly to protect other species at risk, the spiked ray could be just the first of many others to disappear.
