Calabar Ground Boa: An Extinct Species
Introduction
Calabar ground boa, also known as Calabar python (Calabaria reinhardtii), is a species of non-venomous snake that once inhabited western and central Africa. It belonged to the family Boidae and was the sole species in its genus.
Extinction and Habitat Loss
Tragically, the Calabar ground boa is now extinct, having not been sighted since 1975. The primary cause of its extinction was the complete destruction of its natural habitat. Unfortunately, the species had no chance of survival as its habitat vanished. The Calabar ground boa is now listed as extinct according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Round Island Burrowing Boa
Another species of burrowing boa that met an untimely end is the Round Island burrowing boa (Bolyeria multocarinata). This extinct species was endemic to Mauritius and belonged to the monotypic genus Bolyeria and the family Bolyeriidae. Like the Calabar ground boa, its habitat destruction led to its unfortunate extinction.
Conclusion
The extinction of the Calabar ground boa and the Round Island burrowing boa highlights the devastating impact of habitat loss on wildlife. Protecting and preserving natural habitats is crucial to ensure the survival of all species and maintain the balance of ecosystems.
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