Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: 5 Lazarus Species
Aug 18, 2021
Explore the fascinating world of Lazarus species that defied extinction. Discover the coelacanth and Takahe bird, both once believed lost, showcasing nature's resilience. Dive into the unique case of the Lord Howe Island stick insect and its battle against invasive predators. Learn about the surprising role of the illegal pet trade in conservation. Finally, marvel at the robust red horse fish's astonishing comeback after over a century. Each story reveals the ongoing mysteries of survival and biodiversity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Lazarus Species Defined
- Lazarus species are organisms once thought extinct, but rediscovered.
- This differs from threatened species successfully saved by conservation efforts.
Coelacanth Rediscovery
- The coelacanth, a fish with proto-limbs, was thought extinct for 66 million years.
- A live specimen was discovered in 1938, proving its Lazarus status.
Takahe's Persistence
- The Takahe, a rare flightless bird from New Zealand, was rediscovered in 1948 by Jeffrey Orbell.
- Orbell refused to accept the Takahe's presumed extinction.