AI forecasts dire future for marine life: Extinction looms

Oceans, a source of life and abundance for centuries, are now becoming places where the struggle for survival is increasingly difficult. The latest analyses using advanced artificial intelligence models indicate that the number of endangered fish species is much higher than previous data suggested. The increase in extinction risk, reaching up to five times previous estimates, calls into question the future of marine biodiversity. Are we ready for the challenge that nature is posing to us?

Artificial intelligence (AI) reveals troubling data about marine life, which may suggest an impending ecological disaster. Based on the latest research conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Montpellier in France, the threat of fish species extinction is significantly higher than previously thought. Using advanced AI models, researchers discovered that previous assessments, which mainly relied on limited data, might have underestimated the risk by as much as five times.

The research results indicate that almost 13% of marine fish species are endangered. This is a dramatic increase compared to earlier data, which suggested that only 2.5% of species were in danger. Moreover, many species lack appropriate protection status because we do not have sufficient data about them. The lack of this status means these fish remain unprotected against overexploitation and other human threats.

The application of artificial intelligence allowed for a more comprehensive analysis of threats, especially for species we know very little about. Machine learning and neural networks for data analysis have proven effective in identifying species most at risk of extinction. This research shows the current, alarming state of marine biodiversity and the potential of AI in future conservation efforts.

Artificial intelligence shows that the overall threat to fish species is more significant than previously thought and precisely identifies which ones are most at risk. According to the latest analyses, species with limited geographic range, large body sizes, and slow growth rates are particularly endangered. These fish predominantly inhabit shallow waters, which are more susceptible to environmental degradation, such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change.

Attention has been particularly drawn to species inhabiting regions at low (below 30°) and high (above 50°) latitudes. These correspond to temperate and polar climate zones characterized by lower species diversity, making the fish populations more vulnerable to ecosystem disturbances. The research also indicates that species in the Pacific islands are particularly threatened due to geographic isolation and limited migration opportunities.

Among the most endangered are fish from the grouper, shark, and tuna families. These fish play a key role in marine ecosystems and are also significant for fishing industries worldwide.

Examples of particularly endangered species include sharks and rays, which are already under pressure due to fin hunting, and certain tuna species whose populations have been severely depleted by overfishing. Ocean pollution, especially with plastics and chemicals, further exacerbates the situation, leading to declines in these key species essential for ecosystem balance.

The research's conclusions are clear: if we do not take immediate action to protect these endangered fish species, we may witness their complete disappearance from the oceans. Artificial intelligence, with its advanced analytical capabilities, can become a crucial tool in monitoring and protecting marine biodiversity, but its warnings must be taken seriously and acted upon.