- Platt, J. The Last 3 Bornean Rhinos Are in a Race against Extinction. Retrieved August 23, 2015. http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/extinction-countdown/the-last-3-bornean-rhinos-are-in-a-race-against-extinction/
Experts are concerned about the future of the Bornean Rhino. Currently, one male and two females survive. Iman, one of the females has a compilation of tumors in her uterus. The other female, Puntung, is unable to breed because of “severe reproductive tract pathology, possibly due to having gone unbred in the wild for a long time”, according to WWF Malaysi. Although it is not possible for either rhino to become pregnant, they are still producing eggs, which may be combined with the male’s sperm in a lab. The Malaysian government has provided $27,700 in funds for artificial insemination.
Extinction is a common theme in modern environmental science. In particular, scientists study how the disappearance of one species can have a major impact on symbiotic species and the overall surrounding environment. If this particular species of Rhino goes extinct, it could have detrimental consequences for the overall ecology of the Southeast Asian islands.
This article is super sad, not only that this beautiful species will probably never walk this planet again, but also their disappearance will negatively impact the entire ecosystem. Hopefully somehow, someway this species can rebound. Just wondering, what is the main cause of the rhino’s extinction? Also,
Do you think we should continue to fund artificial insemination of animals near extinction or let the natural processes alone? Should we continue this trend on humans?
Its truly sad that such amazing animals like these species of rhino will never be seen again if they do not use the sperm and eggs to make more. I’m sure several rich people throughout the world would love to donate to this cause and those protecting these rhinos need to reach out to the community for further funding.
Thank you for your comment, Lucas. I think the main cause of the rhino’s extinction is habitat destruction and hunting preformed by humans. I support artificial insemination of animals, since it seems to be the only way this species can survive.