IUCN Flags Critical Threats to Fungi, Lions, and Frankincense Trees

Over 1,000 Fungi Species at Risk of Extinction

IUCN Flags Critical Threats to Fungi, Lions, and Frankincense Trees: In a first-ever global alert, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has identified over 1,300 fungi species as threatened, with 411 listed as critically endangered. These fungi play a vital role in ecosystems—recycling nutrients and supporting plant life—but are increasingly affected by deforestation, urban development, and chemical pollution. For example, nitrogen and ammonia runoff from agriculture is altering soil chemistry, damaging delicate fungal networks. Forest fire pattern changes, especially in the United States, also disrupt these organisms, making conservation more urgent than ever.

Lions Deemed ‘Largely Depleted’ Despite Regional Success

The iconic lion (Panthera leo), once roaming vast regions of Africa and Asia, is now classified as ‘Largely Depleted’ under the IUCN’s Green Status of Species, which measures restoration potential. Although lions remain Vulnerable on the Red List, conservation success in places like West Africa, South Africa, and India’s Gir Forest has prevented extinction. Today, there are only 670 Asiatic lions in India and around 23,000 African lions. Lions have now been reclassified into two groups: Panthera leo leo (Central, West Africa & India) and Panthera leo melanochaita (Southern & East Africa). Habitat loss, human expansion, and poaching continue to push these majestic predators toward danger.

Frankincense Trees Face Climate and Grazing Threats

The IUCN also spotlighted the declining status of frankincense trees, particularly Boswellia species found in Socotra, Yemen. Known for producing the fragrant resin used in incense and medicine, these trees are now Endangered or Critically Endangered, with five species moving into higher threat categories. Causes include uncontrolled goat grazing, climate change, and natural disasters like cyclones and flash floods. These pressures hinder the growth of saplings, threatening the future of frankincense production. Local efforts—such as fencing young trees and developing frankincense honey industries—are being tested to protect and incentivize community-led conservation.

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IUCN Flags Critical Threats to Fungi, Lions, and Frankincense Trees: