New study confirms four giraffe species, boosting conservation efforts

The giraffe is one of the world's most iconic and unique mammals and has captivated the human imagination through the ages.Surprisingly, scientists discovered there are four different species of giraffes only a few years ago based on their genetics, rather than the previously accepted notion that there was only one giraffe species. This distinction was further confirmed in a new study that analysed the skull morphology of giraffes.With only about 117 000 giraffes remaining in the wild in Africa, these findings are crucial and highlight the importance of shedding light on the extinction of these animals.The taxonomy and evolution of giraffes have been widely discussed, with various theories emerging, but innovative genomic research by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF), Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre and other partners revealed the distinction between the four species nearly a decade ago: the Masai, northern, reticulated and southern giraffes.Although there were theories about differences in the appearance of different giraffe species, no study had systematically analysed this.To gain a deeper understanding, GCF launched a collaborative research project involving key collaborators from the University of Cape Town, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, several European universities, as well as multiple African government partners.Iconic animals Professor Anusuya Chinsamy from the University of Cape Town and Professor Jesús Marugán-Lobón from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid emphasise that "this study is a fantastic example of successful interdisciplinary collaboration in science, making an important contribution to giraffe conservation and hopefully going a long way in saving these iconic animals in Africa."This latest study compiled the largest known dataset for any medium-to-large animal by 3D scanning 515 giraffe skulls from national parks, game farms, taxidermies and museum collections worldwide.Using 3D geometric morphometric analysis, it was no surprise that the study revealed clear differences between male and female giraffe skulls. However, it was unexpected that the results confirmed the existence of four distinct giraffe species, in line with previous genetic analyses. The different species also displayed clear cranial morphologies, largely linked to their ossicones (the horn-like structures on their skulls).Critical guidanceThe fact that there are four distinct giraffe species, some of which have worryingly low numbers remaining in the wild, has clear implications for their conservation and highlights the importance of using science to guide critical decisions for biodiversity conservation.Dr Julian Fennessy, director of conservation at the GCF and co-author, said that nearly a decade ago, their genetic research showed the existence of four giraffe species. "Now, our collaborative morphological research has confirmed this. It is time for the world to pay attention to giraffes, especially the IUCN, and to update the outdated taxonomy of these animals to give them the status they deserve."Conservation efforts must target all four species – especially those with critically low numbers – before it is too late. Science is science, and facts are facts. I hope any debate about giraffe taxonomy will ultimately stop, as we now need to act to save each of these iconic species."GCF's executive director, Stephanie Fennessy, said the foundation, starting as a small and impactful organisation, continues to make a big difference for giraffes in Africa and remains at the forefront of conservation efforts.-Giraffe Conservation Foundation

New study confirms four giraffe species, boosting conservation efforts

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Namibian Sun 2025-01-24

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New study confirms four giraffe species, boosting conservation efforts

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Namibian Sun 2025-01-24

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