Australia’s Mountain dragons face extinction as climate pressures mount

Australia’s Mountain Dragons Face Extinction as Climate Pressures Mount (Image: Heath Warwick)

In the shifting landscapes of ancient Australia, a small lizard, known as Mountain Dragon, once thrived across open plains and coastal islands. A new study reveals how rising temperatures, shrinking habitats and genetic decline are pushing this resilient species toward extinction.

Vanishing Reptiles in a Warming World

Australia’s iconic Mountain Dragon, Rankinia diemensis, is in trouble. Once spread widely across southeastern regions, it now clings to cooler highlands. Researchers have traced this dramatic contraction over thousands of years. Their findings result in decline in species which is directly linked to long-term climate warming.

Tracing the Dragon’s Decline

Scientists at Flinders University and University of Adelaide in South Australia carried out the research. The following study concentrated on fossil and contemporary samples that were sourced in areas in southeastern Australia, including the Kangaroo and Naracoorte caves.

The study, carried out in 2024, shows that the ancient changing events of warming reflect the current climate crisis. The researchers caution that the current Mountain Dragons are under the same pressure and the transformation is occurring at an increased rate.

Past Through Fossils

Scientists used fossil remains from caves and sand dunes for their study. They employed micro-CT imaging to reveal tiny anatomical details. These were compared with modern lizard samples and genetic data. Together, they built a timeline of the species’ slow retreat north and uphill.

What the Study Revealed?

Twenty thousand years ago, Mountain Dragons roamed lowlands and islands. As the Ice Age ended, warming forced them to higher elevations. Populations became isolated and genetically weaker. Today, they survive only in small, fragmented groups. The research shows they may soon run out of viable habitats.

Learning from the Past to save the Future

The study emphasise on the strength of the museum collections and fossils. The climates are the link that they have with the current challenges. Scientists have now decided to simulate the future living conditions of various habitats with varying scenarios of warming. They hope their work can guide conservation before it’s too late.