Washington, Aug 21 (AP) – Giraffes, with their iconic long necks and unique patterns, are a majestic presence on the African continent. Newly conducted scientific research, unveiled Thursday, has revealed that there are actually four distinct species of giraffes in Africa.
Historically, all giraffes were classified as a single species. However, recent genetic studies and new data have prompted the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to recognize four separate groups: Northern giraffes, reticulated giraffes, Masai giraffes, and Southern giraffes.
Michael Brown, a leading researcher based in Windhoek, Namibia, who spearheaded the IUCN assessment, noted that recent studies over the past decade have underscored the significant differences among these four species.
“Identifying different giraffe species is crucial because each one faces unique population challenges, threats, and conservation needs,” Brown explained. “Lumping giraffes together can obscure these individual narratives.”
Northern giraffes, found in areas like the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic, are threatened by political instability and poaching. Meanwhile, Masai giraffes in Kenya and Tanzania face habitat loss as open savannas are transformed into pastures and agricultural fields.
Stuart Pimm, an ecologist from Duke University who was not involved in the analysis, remarked, “Recognizing these four giraffe species is absolutely the right decision, and it’s long overdue.”
While earlier research focused on the distinctive spots of giraffes, the recent reclassification drew on advanced genetic analysis and anatomical studies, particularly noting differences in skull shape.
The giraffe’s “horns” are actually permanent bony protrusions from the skull, distinct from deer antlers, which are shed each year.
Over the last two decades, scientists have collected genetic samples from more than 2,000 giraffes across Africa, as stated by Stephanie Fennessy of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, who was integral to the research.
With technological advancements, sequencing a genome now costs around USD 100, making it more accessible for nonprofit and conservation organizations, according to Fennessy.
The Giraffe Conservation Foundation estimates that the Northern giraffe is the most endangered, with only about 7,000 remaining in the wild.
“The Northern giraffe is one of the most threatened large mammals globally,” said Fennessy.
The Southern giraffe species boasts the largest population, with approximately 69,000 individuals. There are around 21,000 reticulated giraffes and 44,000 Masai giraffes left in the wild.
Fennessy concluded, “If not all giraffes are the same, then we have to protect them individually.” (AP)
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