DISCOVERY OF NEW BIODIVERSITY 

This year, scientists unveiled thousands of bizarre new species globally, from ocean depths to Vietnamese mountains, reflecting Earth's biodiversity. These discoveries highlight urgent concerns over escalating human-induced extinction rates, which are now alarmingly faster than expected by scientists.

Here are some newly and strangest species of 2024: 

Russula genus contains 800 toadstool species with brittle gills, apple-like stalks, mutual tree relationships, and a pungent odor.

A new hedgehog species, Hylomys macarong, discovered in Vietnam, features soft fur and long fang-like teeth. It's among 234 new species found in the biodiverse Greater Mekong region.

The Tylototriton koliaensis, a shy amphibian discovered in northeastern Vietnam, features bony ridges and knob-like warts. It's among the endangered crocodile newt species protected by CITES.

In a 38-day expedition in Peru's Alto Mayo region, researchers discovered 27 new species, including a strange blob-headed fish, a bistlemouth catfish.

Researchers discovered two new spider species, Ero lizae and Ero natashae on St Helena, known for aggressive behavior and piracy.