Posts

Showing posts from May, 2021

The Humphead Wrasse

Image
 CONSERVATION ALERT!        The humphead wrasse ( Cheilinus undulates ) is classified as an endangered species with declining populations. A lso known as the Napoleon wrasse, the humphead wrasse is a rare and extremely vulnerable fish species. The most recent population estimate is between 50,000 and 100,000 individuals. The population has seen a 50% loss in the past 30 years.         Humphead wrasse are one of the largest fish found in coral reefs. They can grow up to 6 feet long and weigh 400 pounds. They have a life span of 30 years more or less and are easily spotted by a prominent bulge on their forehead.      These enormous fish are generally solitary, traveling across coral reefs by day and sheltering in their caves and under their ledges at night. This species can be found in the Coral Triangle as well as on other coral reefs throughout much of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.        The humphead wrasse plays an important role in their ecosystem and if they were removed, the

The African Penguin

Image
  The African penguin ( Spheniscus demersus ) is an endangered species with a declining population. Their population size has declined by nearly 90% since the turn of the 20th century and the most recent census estimates fewer than 40,000 are left. Current estimates reveal that the species will go extinct by 2026 if current climate change and human activity trends continue!       Some basic facts about African penguins: They are one of the smallest penguin species Height: 24 to 27 inches Weight: 4.4 to 11 pounds Have a lifespan up to 30 years  Flightless Excellent swimmers  Fun fact: they can dive over 400 feet deep and hold their breath for over 2 minutes! Live in large colonies   African penguins are the only penguin species found on the African continent. They can be found along the rocky coastlines of Southwest Africa as well as many of the surrounding islands.   They play a large role in their ecosystem. They are an essential food source for other land and marine species. Their

Introduction

Image
Hello all! My name is Darby B and I am graduating at the end of this summer (hopefully) with a major in Environmental Studies as well as a minor in Anthropology from the University of Cincinnati.  As a lover for all, it is very difficult to choose a favorite species as my mind seems to pick a new one every day. However, for the time being, my favorite animal is probably any large cat, specifically a panther if I must choose. I saw a black panther (confined) the last time I was in Dallas and I was in complete awe to say the very least. It was the most beautiful animal I have ever seen, and I’ve seen a bunch of them!  My favorite plant at the moment would have to be bleeding hearts. I am actually thinking they might be my next tattoo investment!      If I have learned anything the last four years as an EVST student, I have come to be quite familiar with the concept of conservation. Wildlife conservation is crucial because without those species, humans will not survive either.