Priorities for a coordinated effort on behalf of lost species: a commentary on Martin et al. (2022)

Towards a standardized framework for managing lost species

“…And indeed, are strict guidelines regarding what constitutes a rediscovery desirable, or is it better to assess data on a case-by-case basis, e.g., via a committee? Biggs et al (2023) highlight important actions towards developing a standardized framework for the management of lost species, and Fisher (2023) reminds us of the strengths and weaknesses of the Red List. We suggest that further steps could involve decision making on which species to prioritize, how to refine the 'rules' on rediscovery, and where best to curate an authoritative list.…”

“…We thank Biggs, Long, & Rodríguez (2023) and Fisher (2023) for their thoughtful commentaries on our simple overview of lost terrestrial vertebrate species (Martin et al ., 2022). We agree with these authors that reducing the Latimerian knowledge shortfall is dependent on both co‐ordinated fieldwork efforts and the development of a well‐managed, standardized framework for administering lost species data.…”

“…However, the call of Biggs et al . (2023) to produce an annually updated list of all taxa unobserved for >5 years may prove challenging for several reasons. First, systematically obtaining data on species missing for shorter time periods (e.g.…”

“…Indeed, given the central importance of the IUCN and its IT infrastructure for both obtaining data on lost species and for implementing recommendations regarding the status of these species, it may be advantageous for any decision‐making committee on lost species to be integrated into the organization, perhaps through the creation of an IUCN‐sanctioned Specialist Group or Task Force under the Species Survival Commission. Regardless of who convenes this, the establishment of a global standardized framework for the management of lost species seems a worthy, perhaps pressing, endeavour, and we hope the IUCN, organizations like Re:Wild (Biggs et al ., 2023), specialist field scientists (see, e.g., https://www.lostsharkguy.com/about), and conservation experts will help spearhead the process. Given what we know (Fisher, 2023; Martin et al ., 2022), we could start with Reptilia.…”