Benthos 360

A recent study suggests that Earth could lose a third of all animal and plant species within our lifetimes. Consequently, public awareness of efforts to conserve endangered fauna and flora is more urgent than ever. Popular animals tend to attract the most support, but oftentimes it’s the species at greatest risk that the public hears about the least. The mussels, snails, and salamanders that inhabit the nooks and crevices of Appalachian stream bottoms are examples of biota facing great risk of extinction while hidden from public view. As they continue to struggle for survival, many of these organisms exist only in the memories of adults who played and fished in these streams as children. Unfortunately, future generations may have no memory of them at all. While opportunities to experience these endangered species and their natural environments first-hand are rare, immersive technologies can offer new ways of sharing these creatures and their worlds more broadly than ever before. We’re exploring how immersive technology can help improve public awareness of imperiled species and how individuals and communities can support efforts to save them.