Discovery of New Marine Species in Panglao Islands Raises Biodiversity Concerns

A foreign scientist, Dr. Philippe Bouchet, has noted that the discovery of new species of marine organisms in Panglao Islands, Bohol, may prompt the government to protect biodiversity in the area and manage it for tourism. However, Bouchet warned that tourism can also harm the area's rich biodiversity. The expedition, led by Bouchet, found hundreds of new species, including 1,200 species of crabs and shrimps in a 15,000-hectare study area. This is more than the 1,600 species found in the entire Japan. The scientists also discovered species thought to be extinct for hundreds of years.

Key Takeaways:

• The research expedition, led by Dr. Philippe Bouchet, discovered hundreds of new species of marine organisms in Panglao Islands, Bohol.
• The expedition found 1,200 species of crabs and shrimps in a 15,000-hectare study area, surpassing the 1,600 species found in the entire Japan.
• Scientists discovered species thought to be extinct for hundreds of years.
• Dr. Bouchet warned that tourism can harm the area's "dauntingly" rich biodiversity.
• The research expedition collected 1,200 specimens, which will be brought to Singapore, France, and San Francisco for further study.
• The expedition conforms to Philippine laws on the collection and export of specimens for research.
• Local stakeholders were consulted and allowed to monitor the expedition's activities, but they failed to take part.
• The research was funded by the Total Foundation, a multinational energy company.

Statistics:

• 1,200 species of crabs and shrimps were found in a 15,000-hectare study area.
• 1,600 species were found in the entire Japan.
• 70 marine scientists took part in the expedition.
• 1,200 specimens were collected by the expedition team.
• The study area covers about 15,000 hectares.

Sources:

• "Study of marine biodiversity in Panglao Islands 'daunting'." Asia Pulse, Feb 9.
• Manila Bulletin News Agency (PNA). (2038, 09-02).