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An ancient species of spider is feared extinct due to Australia’s ‘catastrophic‘ fires.
Expert Michael Rix who works in the Biodiversity and Geosciences Program at the Queensland Museum says the fires, which have also destroyed more than 2,000 homes, and burned more than 30,000 square miles, have now destroyed the habitat of the Zephyrarchaea austini – which have only ever been found on Kangaroo Island.
‘Gravely impacted’
“It’s only known from the…northwest of the island,” Rix told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, according to The Star Online.
“As far as we know that area was significantly impacted. We’re very concerned that they may have been gravely impacted if not wiped out.”
More than billion animals are also feared dead due to the fires, and an estimated 27 people have been killed.
Disaster relief
A fundraiser for fire services in NWS raised more than A$20 million in 48 hours to help tackle the fire. While Prime Minister Scott Morrison has called up 3,000 reserve troops.
A plethora of celebrities have also donated to local fire charities including Pink, Lewis Hamilton, and Elton John.
If you would like to donate or volunteer to help with the fires, click here
