The Luristan newt, a vibrant and colorful salamander, is teetering on the brink of extinction in the remote mountainous regions of western Iran. This critically endangered species faces severe threats from smuggling and the booming pet trade.
Once valued at around 150 U.S. dollars per adult, the price of the Luristan newt has plummeted by 80% in less than a decade due to rampant trafficking, making it a lucrative target for smugglers and pet enthusiasts alike.
Beyond its striking appearance, the Luristan newt is rumored to possess the remarkable ability to purify water, highlighting its potential ecological significance. However, its declining numbers have raised urgent concerns among conservationists and environmentalists.
\"The main destroyer of our environment is humans,\" says Ali Parsa, a dedicated activist who has spent the past 15 years studying and protecting the Luristan newt. His passionate efforts have galvanized a growing community of supporters committed to reversing the newt's decline.
Thanks to the increased awareness and collective action, there is hope that the Luristan newt can be preserved for future generations, ensuring that this beautiful and ecologically important species does not vanish forever.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
