In an biological survey conducted from June 6 to July 14 2022, atleast 27 species documented on the expedition are new to science. A team of 13 scientists and 7 technical assistants, covered a diverse range of ecosystems in the Alto Mayo landscape. The survey was done in eight different zones to meet the known data requirements as well as to replicate the variance of ecosystem types, such as forests, agricultural areas, and regions with different human disturbance. The sites where the team worked were from 570 to 2,230 meters above sea level showing both Amazonian-influenced plants and animals in lower altitudes and species from cloud forests at the highest elevations.
During the investigation, the scientists collected and examined DNA of different species of plants, fishes, reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, butterflies, the tiny dung beetles. The fieldwork was successful as it produced several remarkable findings, such as the discovery of 27 newly identified species and another 48 potential brand new ones. The list of species found included four new mammals out of which one new genus squirrel was first discovered as well as one semi-aquatic mouse, along with several new amphibians, fishes, butterflies, and dung beetles.
Moreover, 307 species were also ranked as new to Alto Mayo and 34 species that is endemic to San Martin are recorded implying the high importance of the area to conservation. Certain species that are the most threatened one's are the Peruvian yellow-tailed woolly monkey and San Martin titi monkey suggesting that the conservation process should be the top priority.
Taking everything into account, we can say that this survey showed biodiversity which was higher than anyone expected and that this life was even in the areas where human activities were intensively visible, and this fact undeniably showed the importance of pursuing the urban ecology approach. The new information given has been demonstrated to prime the necessity for the follow-up of research studies and conservation projects, particularly in areas with food webs that are most diverse and for environmental reasons are prone to being wiped out.
Quick glance
| Category | Number of Species | New to Science | Threatened with Extinction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mammals | 151 | 4 (Bat, Squirrel, Spiny Mouse, Amphibious Mouse) | At least 12 |
| Fish Species | 68 | 8 (Including Blob-Headed Fish) | Not specified |
| Reptiles and Amphibians | 45 | 3 (Rainfrog, Narrow-Mouthed Frog, Climbing Salamander) | Not specified |
| Insects | 289 | 12 (Including 10 Butterflies and 2 Beetles) | Not specified |
| Birds | 536 | Not specified | 26 (Threatened with Extinction) |
| Plant Species | 955 | Not specified | 10 (Including Rare Orchids) |
| Ongoing Discoveries | Not specified | 48 (Potential New Species) | Not specified |