**Fatshimetrie: Year in Review for Plant and Animal Species**
As the year draws to a close, it is time to take stock of the plant and animal species that made headlines in 2024. Between surprising discoveries and sad disappearances, the natural world continues to amaze and worry us.
*Disappearance of the priceless and discovery of the astonishing*
In the animal world, a new tomb has been added to the long list of extinct species: the slender-billed curlew. This wading bird, known for its long, curved beak, was officially declared extinct this year. Its disappearance symbolizes the fragility of biodiversity and reminds us of the urgency of protecting endangered species.
But while some species fade away, others make a remarkable entrance onto the fauna and flora scene. In the Congo Basin, hundreds of new species have been identified, testifying to the richness and diversity of this ecosystem. Plants, fish, reptiles, each contributing to biodiversity.
*Surprising discoveries and hidden treasures*
The seabed has also yielded its share of treasures this year. Off the coast of Chile, an underwater expedition has uncovered a myriad of new species, including a strange, brightly colored sea toad, living at a depth of 1,500 meters. In New Zealand waters, a mysterious ghost shark has captured the attention of researchers, reminding us that the ocean depths still hold many secrets.
And what about this unexpected discovery in France, where a gigantic vegetarian dinosaur has been unearthed, testifying to a distant past when these giants reigned supreme on Earth. So many surprises that show that nature still has many mysteries to reveal.
*A message of hope for the future*
Through these discoveries and disappearances, an entire fragile and precious ecosystem is revealed before our eyes. Faced with the environmental challenges that stand before us, it is more essential than ever to preserve the diversity of species and protect our planet. Each new discovery is an invitation to contemplate and preserve the nature that surrounds us.
At the end of this year, nature sends us a message of hope: by taking care of it, we take care of ourselves and future generations. May each of us commit to protecting and respecting the biodiversity that surrounds us, to preserve this wonderful balance that makes our planet so rich.
In a constantly changing world, it is our collective responsibility to protect and preserve the diversity of species that populate our planet. Each discovery, whether surprising or tragic, reminds us of the importance of our role as guardians of biodiversity.May this year that is coming to an end be the starting point for a collective awareness in favor of the preservation of our environment and all forms of life that inhabit it.