ET Online
Jul 10, 2025
Known for its colorful shell, the Hawksbill Turtle is critically endangered due to illegal shell trade, habitat loss, and climate change. Coral reef destruction affects its nesting and feeding grounds globally.
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Overfished for their fins, Great Hammerheads face rapid population decline. Their slow reproductive rate makes recovery difficult, placing them among the most vulnerable sharks in the world.
Image Source: iStock
Often mistaken for mermaids in legends, dugongs are peaceful, slow-moving marine mammals found in warm coastal waters. Habitat destruction, boat collisions, and fishing gear entanglement are driving their decline.
Image Source: iStock
The only penguin species north of the equator, it’s endangered due to warming seas, invasive species, and reduced food supply from shifting ocean currents caused by El Niño.
Image Source: iStock
A reef guardian, this vibrant fish is overexploited for luxury dining. Its slow breeding and high demand in the live reef food trade have made it endangered.
Image Source: iStock
Harvested for meat and shells, giant clams are vital for coral reef ecosystems. Overfishing and reef bleaching threaten their existence across the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
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Walking more than swimming, this quirky, critically endangered fish exists in tiny patches off Tasmania. Habitat degradation, pollution, and climate shifts have reduced its population to fewer than 100 individuals.
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Once dominant in Caribbean reefs, this coral species has declined by 98% due to ocean acidification, warming seas, and disease. Coral reefs support 25% of all marine life.
Image Source: iStock
A living fossil, this ancient mollusk is threatened by deep-sea mining and excessive shell collection. Its slow reproductive cycle makes it extremely sensitive to exploitation.
Image Source: iStock
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