Singapore crab featured among the world's 100 most threatened lifeforms

A freshwater crab found only in Singapore is featured among the 100 most threatened lifeforms on the planet. Conservationists fear these organisms will be allowed to die out because none of these species provide humans with obvious benefits.

“All the species listed are unique and irreplaceable. If they vanish, no amount of money can bring them back,” said a co-author of the report. Their declines have mainly been caused by humans, but in almost all cases scientists believe their extinction can still be avoided if conservation efforts are specifically focused.

15 Sep (Sat): Prof Leo Tan speaks on "Greening the Red Dot - Creating a Legacy for the future?"

Singapore is a tiny island with more than 5 million people and no natural resources. So what is the value of nature and biodiversity to the socio-economic progress of this red dot? We are often reminded that it is business/finance and technology that drives the economy, not natural history! Is this really the case?

This seminar examines some aspects of the need or otherwise for nature and the environment in keeping our island salubrious and liveable as we chase our economic goals. How important or sustainable are the tiny pockets of natural forest, coastal mangroves, coral reefs and parks for us now and as a legacy for our future generations?

New to science, found in Singapore!

Can you find species new to science in Singapore? Along the boardwalk? YES!

This new species of cricket was found along the Chek Jawa boardwalk! It was named after Chek Jawa too! It is called Svistella chekjawa. More critters new to science and given names associated with Singapore in the latest issue of the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology 60(2): 241–598. 31 August 2012