Aberystwyth University scientist appeals for new field of conservation
An Aberystwyth University scientist has called for the creation of a revolutionary new field of biodiversity conservation. The Global Strategy for Microbial Conservation would aim to protect the smallest and most neglected forms of life in the natural world. These organisms include bacteria, fungi and algae, many of which are wrongly seen in popular belief as ‘bad’ or ‘useless’. However Dr Gareth W Griffith from IBERS – the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences – warns that failing to protect them could lose the planet a wealth of biotechnological resources and important habitats and even push some endangered animals and plants towards extinction. Dr Gareth W Griffith argues that the current bias of mainstream conservation efforts towards protecting plants and animals could lead to the extinction of many important microbes without anyone even knowing. Their value would only be realised after they have gone. The plea by Dr Griffith, a senior lecturer...