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Who Gets the Lion’s Share? HKU Ecologists Highlight Disparities in Global Biodiversity Conservation Funding

The extensive loss of biodiversity represents one of the major crises of our time, threatening not only entire ecosystems but also our current and future livelihoods. As scientists realise the magnitude and scale of ongoing extinctions, it is vital to ascertain the resources available for conservation and whether funds are being effectively distributed to protect species most in need. A team of researchers from the School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong (HKU), addressed these questions in a recent paper in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), USA, by compiling information on nearly 15,000 funded projects focused on species conservation. Professor Benoit GUÉNARD, the lead author of the study, noted that, ‘Our first conclusion is that funding for species conservation research remains extremely limited with only US$ 1.93 billion allocated over 25 years in the projects we assessed.’ The international conservation funding from 37 governments and NGOs represented a mere 0.3% and 0.01% of the annual budget of the NASA or US military, respectively. This stark comparison underscores the urgent need to dramatically increase such funding to slow global biodiversity loss. The authors also examined the allocation of this funding to specific species or groups of organisms based on their conservation needs as assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, often called the ‘barometer of life’. Professor Guénard explains, ‘Based on previous literature-based studies, we expected biases towards vertebrates and, whilst this was true, we found the situation much worse than previously estimated. Even within vertebrates, many of the most threatened groups, like amphibians, were largely underfunded with declining funding trends over time.’ Another striking example can be found in reptiles, particularly lizards and snakes, where over a thousand species have been identified as threatened, yet 87% of the funding towards reptile conservation is directed towards the seven species of marine turtles. Professor Guénard states, ‘This highlights an important mismatch between scientific assessment of conservation and allocation of funding by conservation stakeholders, which appears to rely on the “charisma” of species. This leads to nearly a third of the funding directed to non-threatened species while almost 94% of threatened species have not received any support.’ Some groups, like plants or insects, received a mere 6% each of the funding despite their vast diversity and the number of threatened species they include, while other major groups, such as fungi or algae, received virtually no funding. Professor Alice HUGHES, a co-author of the study, echoed, ‘Our traditional view of what is threatened often does not align with species genuinely at threat, leaving many smaller, or “less charismatic” species neglected. We urgently need to reframe this perspective and better allocate funding across taxa if we want any hope of redressing widespread population declines and the continued loss of biodiversity.’ Based on these findings, the researchers are calling for a new approach to conservation funding. Whilst species conservation is in dire need of additional funding, a more rigorous approach to selecting projects and species to receive those limited funds is urgently needed. Professor Guénard emphasises, ‘Conservation agencies and NGOs need to modify their philosophy towards conservation to protect all species, and not just a subset based on subjective criteria of charisma or beauty.’ In the future, the research team hopes their database can be expanded so information on funding allocation is more transparent and easily accessible. This would help evaluate existing gaps, plan effective future conservation efforts at a global scale, and reduce redundancy in funding for species that already receive the lion's share of support. Variation over time of the percentage of funded single-species conservation projects (A) and funds received per taxonomic group (B) for the period 1992-2017. The total number of funded projects A) and the total amount of funds received in millions of U.S. $ B) for each taxonomic group is presented on the right y-axis. For each 5-year period, the number of projects and of funding agencies (in parentheses) A) and the total funding amount B) are presented on top of the chart. Image adapted from respective paper.  

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Exploring the Frontiers of Science: A Student’s Journey to an International Influenza Conference

Peter WONG BSc student (major in Biochemistry) With the generous support of the Faculty of Science under the Young Scientist Scheme (YSS), I recently had the privilege of attending the 12th Options for the Control of Influenza, an international conference dedicated to influenza and other respiratory viruses, held in Brisbane, Australia. This eye-opening experience provided an invaluable opportunity for me to engage with leading experts in the field and delve deeper into cutting-edge research on respiratory virology.   I am currently a final-year Bachelor of Science student majoring in Biochemistry at HKU, conducting my capstone project under the guidance of Professors Michael Chan and Kenrie Hui from the School of Public Health. My project focuses on investigating the pathogenesis of infection and virus-host interactions. Specifically, we utilize primary respiratory organoid cultures as a physiologically relevant alternative to human respiratory tissue explant for studying viral infections. Our goal is to enhance the risk assessment workflow with Bulk RNAseq transcriptomics analysis to better understand and compare the pathogenesis of emerging respiratory viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2. Participating in this conference broadened my perspective on respiratory virus research. The event featured seminars and presentations on a range of topics, including zoonotic influenza virus spillover, vaccine development, and antiviral efficacy. Beyond the main conference, I also attended the Mini-School of Influenza, a lecture-based programme covering foundational concepts in respiratory virology, public health, epidemiology, surveillance, and research-driven vaccine development. These sessions complemented my studies at HKU and provided an advanced extension of the knowledge I have gained.   A highlight of the conference was the chance to exchange ideas with researchers from around the world. I had the pleasure of meeting Associate Professor Claire Smith from University College London’s Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, whose research interests and focuses on using primary human epithelial respiratory virus infection models, including respiratory syncytial virus, influenza virus, and coronavirus. In particular, her group has been exploring the incorporation of neutrophils into these models to study their responses during viral infection. This interesting expansion of the in vitro models provides a valuable approach to studying immune cell response and their contribution to disease progression.    The experience was not limited to academic pursuits. While in Brisbane, I explored the city’s vibrant culture and unique wildlife. A visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary allowed me to experience the unique Australian wildlife and biodiversity firsthand. Additionally, I enjoyed a memorable breakfast at the historic Pancake Manor, housed in St Luke’s Church of England, a building dating back to 1904. These moments added depth to my trip, offering a balance of scientific enrichment and cultural discovery.   Reflecting on this experience, I am deeply grateful to the Faculty of Science for supporting my participation at the 12th edition of Options for the Control of Influenza. Attending the conference not only expanded my understanding of current trends and challenges in respiratory virology but also confirmed my passion for this field. It has inspired me to pursue PhD studies focused on virus-host interactions, marking a significant milestone in my academic journey. 

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Professor Vivian W W YAM Honoured with the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry 2025 Award

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Mok Sau-King Professorship Bestowed Upon Professor Guochun Zhao

The Faculty of Science is proud to announce that Professor Guochun Zhao from the Department of Earth Sciences has been appointed as the Mok Sau-King Professor, one of the most significant awards bestowed upon eminent academics within the University to support their academic and research activities.  Professor Zhao is an internationally recognised geologist who specialises in early earth sciences. His main research fields include metamorphic petrology, Precambrian geology, and the study of supercontinents. His remarkable contributions to the field are evidenced by the publication of over 450 scientific papers, which have garnered more than 73,000 citations. His extensive research and ground-breaking discoveries have earned him numerous prestigious accolades and honours. In 2019, Professor Zhao was elected as the Chinese Academy of Sciences academician. In 2021, he became a fellow of the World Academy of Sciences for the Advancement of Science in Developing Countries, and in 2023, he was inducted as a member of the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences. According to the 2024 Best Scientists Rankings by Research.com, Professor Zhao is ranked 8th in the world and 1st in China in earth sciences. His other outstanding achievements in geosciences include the State Natural Science Award (Second Class; First Awardee; 2014), the Fellow of the Geological Society of America (2014), the Highly Cited Researcher Award of Clarivate Analytics (2014-2023), the Outstanding Researcher Award of The University of Hong Kong (2016), the 29th Khwarizmi International Award (First Class; 2016), and the TWAS Prize in Earth, Astronomy, Space Sciences from The World Academy of Science (2018) and the Distinguished Research Achievement Award of HKU (2021). Professor Zhao obtained his BSc and MSc degrees from Changchun University of Earth Sciences (now merged into Jilin University) in 1985 and 1988, respectively, and his PhD from Curtin University, Australia, in 2000. He is currently a Chair Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at The University of Hong Kong and a Changjiang Scholar Professor (short-term) in the Department of Geology at Northwest University (Xi’an). He also serves as the director of the NWU-HKU Joint Center for Earth and Planetary Sciences. As a distinguished academic, Professor Zhao's contributions have significantly impacted the field of earth sciences, and his appointment as the Mok Sau-King Professor is a testament to his exceptional achievements and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge.

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Professor Hongjie Dai Honoured as Sapientia Eminence Professor

On January 23, 2025, a dedication ceremony was held to commemorate the establishment of the Sapientia Eminence Professorship. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Mr Vitor Cheung, Director of Moral Properties Limited; Professor Xiang Zhang, President & Vice-Chancellor; Professor Qiang Zhou, Dean of Science; and Professor Dai Hongjie, the Sapientia Eminence Professor and Chair Professor of Chemistry.   The Sapientia Eminence Professorship was made possible by a generous donation of $15 million from Moral Properties Limited. With this generous support, Professor Dai Hongjie, the recipient of the Sapientia Eminence Professorship, will be able to pursue research and academic endeavours.   To commence the event, Professor Xiang Zhang conveyed his appreciation to Mr and Mrs Cheung. 'Mr Cheung's generosity is a significant support for The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and for Hong Kong as a whole. Hong Kong is emerging as a hub for higher education, and talent is paramount to achieving this status. With talented individuals, we will attract a multitude of students and achieve numerous research breakthroughs. These research accomplishments can be leveraged into productivity, ultimately benefiting the development of Hong Kong's economy.'   Mr Vitor Cheung holds the belief that education plays a vital role in shaping lives and communities. He expressed, 'I aspire that my modest contribution can aid HKU in advancing innovation and technology, supporting Professor Dai in his research and development endeavors, and contributing to both Hong Kong and China.'   Professor Qiang Zhou elucidated the term 'GeWu (格物)' has its roots in the Confucian classic The Great Learning and serves as one of the mottos of HKU. It encapsulates the essence of seeking truth and acquiring wisdom. 'GeWu' aligns with the Latin term 'Sapientia,' which translates to 'wisdom'. He said, 'Professor Dai Hongjie, an esteemed international scholar, exemplifies this ethos by continually delving into the pursuit of truth in his research, embodying the spirit of "Sapientia Eminence".'   Professor Dai Hongjie, is currently Chair Professor in Chemistry, HKU, with a joint appointment in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and School of Biomedical Sciences in HKUMed. In his presentation, he showcased his groundbreaking work in infrared fluorescence imaging and highlighted his ongoing efforts in clinical translation. He aims to transform the clinical surgical landscape through precise imaging guided tumour resection that benefits numerous cancer patients, and imaging guided surgical navigation that protects healthy vital organs from accidental injury.     More about the Endowed Professorships Scheme   Professor Xiang Zhang presents the Endowed Professorships Commemorative Chair to Mr Vitor Cheung   (Back row from left) Dr Shunlong Wang, Professor Qiang Zhou; Mr Felix Vitor Cheung; Professor Dai Hongjie; Dr Meijie Tang, spouse of Professor Dai and Deputy Director of Technology Transfer Office; Mr Hoi Luk Ng, retired Assistant Director, HKU Finance and Enterprises Office; (Front row from left) Mrs Vitor Cheung and Mr Vitor Cheung   Group Photo of Cheung’s family, Professor and Mrs Zhang, Professor Dai and Dr Tang   Mr Vitor Cheung and Professor Xiang Zhang at the MoU signing and a check presentation in July 2024   Story and photos credit: DAAO 

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HKU Physicists Pioneer Entanglement Microscopy Algorithm to Explore How Matter Entangles in Quantum Many-Body Systems

Quantum entanglement – a phenomenon where particles are mysteriously linked no matter how far apart they are – presents a long-standing challenge in the physical world, particularly in understanding its behaviour within complex quantum systems. A research team from the Department of Physics at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and their collaborators have recently developed a novel algorithm in quantum physics known as ‘entanglement microscopy’ that enables visualisation and mapping of this extraordinary phenomenon at a microscopic scale. By zooming in on the intricate interactions of entangled particles, one can uncover the hidden structures of quantum matter, revealing insights that could transform technology and deepen the understanding of the universe. This study, led by Professor Zi Yang MENG and co-authored by his PhD students Ting-Tung WANG and Menghan SONG of HKU Department of Physics, in collaboration with Professor William WITCZAK-KREMPA and PhD student Liuke LYU from the University of Montreal, unveils the hidden structures of quantum entanglement in many-body systems, offering a fresh perspective on the behaviour of quantum matter. Their findings were recently published in the prestigious journal Nature Communications. A Breakthrough in Mapping Quantum Entanglement Quantum entanglement describes a deep connection between particles, where the state of one particle is instantly linked to another, even across vast distances. Imagine rolling two dice in different locations—quantum entanglement is like finding that the outcome of one die always determines the outcome of the other, no matter how far apart they are. This phenomenon, famously called ‘spooky action at a distance’ by Albert Einstein, is not just a theoretical curiosity but underpins technologies like quantum computing, cryptography, and the study of exotic materials and black holes. However, it is intrinsically difficult to obtain the entanglement information in quantum many-body systems both analytically and numerically due to the exponentially large degree of freedoms. Researchers have addressed this challenge by developing ‘entanglement microscopy’, an innovative protocol based on large-scale quantum Monte Carlo simulation that can successfully extract the quantum entanglement information in small regions of quantum systems. By focusing on these microscopic areas, this method reveals how particles interact and organise themselves in intricate ways, especially near critical points in quantum phase transitions—special states where quantum systems undergo profound changes in behaviour. On the left: Sampling the reduced density matrix (RDM) in path-integral quantum Monte Carlo (QMC). Panel (a) shows the partition function in the space time manifold appearing in usual QMC simulations. Panel (b) shows how the RDM is sampled in such QMC simulations, where one imposes open boundary conditions in time for the skeletal sites in subregion A. The lower panel in (b) demonstrates the spatial partition of A and B in such a setting. On the right: Logarithmic negativity as a measurement of quantum entanglement for adjacent sites in (a) 2d transverse-field Ising model and (b) 2d fermion t-V model. The bottom panel illustrates the schematic phase diagrams.   Their exploration focused on two prominent models at two-dimension: the transverse field Ising model and fermionic t-V model that realises the Gross-Neveu-Yukawa transition of Dirac fermions, each revealing fascinating insights into the nature of quantum entanglement. They discovered that at the Ising quantum critical point, entanglement is short-range, meaning particles are connected only over small distances. This connection can abruptly vanish due to changes in distance or temperature—a phenomenon known as ‘sudden death’. In contrast, their investigation of the fermionic transition revealed a more gradual decline in entanglement even at larger separations, indicating that particles can maintain connections despite being far apart. Intriguingly, the team discovered that in two-dimensional Ising transitions, three-party entanglement was absent, yet present in one-dimensional systems. This implies that system dimensionality significantly affects entanglement behaviour. To simplify, low-dimensional systems are akin to a small group of friends where deep connections (complex multi-particle entanglement) are more probable. Conversely, high-dimensional systems, comparable to larger, more complex social networks, often suppress such connections. These findings provide important understanding of how entanglement structure alters with increasing system complexity. Applications and Impact This breakthrough has significant implications for advancing quantum technologies. By providing a clearer understanding of entanglement, it could help optimise quantum computing hardware and algorithms, enabling faster problem-solving in fields like cryptography and artificial intelligence. It also opens the door to designing next-generation quantum materials with applications in energy, electronics, and superconductivity. Furthermore, this tool could deepen our understanding of fundamental physics and improve quantum simulations in chemistry and biology. The findings are detailed in the paper ‘Entanglement microscopy and tomography in many-body systems’, published in the journal Nature Communications. The full paper can be accessed at https://rdcu.be/d5oSa Ting-Tung WANG (left) and Menghan SONG, PhD students from the HKU Department of Physics, are co-authors of the journal paper.    

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Science Teachers Recognised with HKU Excellence Awards 2024

Congratulations to our academics for receiving the University's research and teaching excellence awards in the HKU Excellence Award Scheme 2024. The list of award recipients is appended as follows:    Outstanding Teaching Award Dr Ka Ho LAW Associate Head (Teaching & Learning) and Lecturer, Department of Mathematics   Outstanding Researcher Award Professor Shuang ZHANG Interim Head and Professor, Department of Physics   Outstanding Young Researcher Awards    Professor Jian HE Assistant Professor Department of Chemistry   Professor Zhongxing HUANG Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry     Research Output Prize Professor Timothy BONEBRAKE Associate Dean of Science Professor, School of Biological Sciences Details of the awarded journal paper: '"Genomic analyses reveal poaching hotspots and illegal trade in pangolins from Africa to Asia", Science, 382(6676), 1282-1286 by Tracey-Leigh*, Cheng, Wenda*, Xing, Shuang*, Bonebrake, Timothy C.* and other researchers.     Congratulations to all the recipients on their well-deserved achievements!     The Outstanding Researcher Awards scheme aims to recognise, honour and reward exceptional work in research by staff of the University. The scheme includes the Distinguished Research Achievement Award (DRAA), Outstanding Researcher Award (ORA), Outstanding Young Researcher Award (OYRA), Outstanding Research Student Supervisor Award (ORSSA), and Research Output Prize (ROP). The DRAA, ORA and OYRA are awards made to recognise individuals for their outstanding research accomplishments. The ORSSA is to recognise exemplary and effective supervisory guidance and support to their research postgraduate students. The ROP is a Faculty-based award to honour the best research output from each Faculty.   The Teaching Excellence Award Scheme aims to recognise, reward and promote excellence in teaching at the University. Under the Scheme, there are four categories of awards, viz. University Distinguished Teaching Award, Outstanding Teaching Award (OTA), Early Career Teaching Award (ECTA) and Teaching Innovation Award (TIA). Besides individual awards, both OTA and TIA comprise team awards to recognise and encourage collaborative effort and achievement in enhancing teaching and learning. Faculties should encourage their teachers with outstanding contributions to teaching and learning to apply for these awards.

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HKU Research Identifies PICH Protein as Key Player in Preventing Chromosome Breakage Linked to Cancer

Researchers at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) have made an exciting discovery about how human cells protect DNA during cell division, offering new insights into combating diseases such as cancer. Led by Professor Gary Ying Wai CHAN from the School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, and Professor Ken Hoi Tang MA from the Department of Pathology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, the research uncovers the vital role of a protein called PICH in preventing genetic errors that can lead to diseases such as cancer. Their findings were recently published in the journal Nucleic Acids Research. Ultrafine Anaphase Bridges – A Hidden Threat to Our Genome Every time a cell divides, it must ensure its DNA is accurately copied and split between the two new cells. However, tiny threads of DNA, known as ultrafine anaphase bridges(UFBs), can sometimes form and cause problems if not properly managed. These UFBs can be thought of as invisible enemies that tangle up our genetic material. Through their research, the HKU team discovered that the protein PICH acts like a radar, detecting these UFBs and helping to resolve them. They found that when PICH is missing or not functioning properly, cells experience severe genetic damage, including broken DNA, the formation of small DNA-containing structures called micronuclei, and activation of the cell’s emergency response systems, ultimately leading to cell death. Moreover, their findings revealed that such damage can trigger rearrangements of chromosomes—hallmarks of cancer. PICH acts like a lookout, spotting and attaching to tiny DNA threads called ultrafine anaphase bridges (UFBs). When PICH is inactivated (knockdown, KD), more of these threads form and break, leading to dangerous DNA rearrangements that can be identified by whole genome sequencing. The blue lines in the circular diagrams indicate sites of genomic rearrangements, often involving interchromosomal fusions—a hallmark of tumourigenesis that drives cancer development. Image adapted from Kong et al, Nucleic Acids Research (2024).   PICH prevents dangerous rearrangements of DNA Building on these findings, the team further investigated the role of PICH in maintaining genetic stability. They found that without PICH, cells not only suffer from severe DNA damage but also accumulate significant genetic errors. A mutated version of PICH that cannot recruit other helper proteins provides only partial protection, while a completely inactive version of PICH fails to resolve UFBs, resulting in even more extensive genetic damage. PICH’s activity is crucial for breaking down these DNA threads and preventing genetic chaos. Notably, when PICH is missing, genetic errors are more likely to occur in non-centromeric regions of the DNA due to the breakage of UFBs, leading to dangerous chromosome rearrangements that can cause disease. Their research proposes that PICH protects human DNA through two key mechanisms. First, it assists another protein, topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A), in untangling the DNA threads. Second, it works with a protein called BLM helicase to convert tangled threads into a simpler, more manageable form. Together, these two actions ensure that DNA threads are properly resolved, preventing genetic errors that could lead to cancer.  ‘Our research shows how vital PICH is in protecting our DNA from damage during cell division. By understanding how PICH works, we can explore new ways to treat cancers such as colorectal, gastric and breast cancer, which are strongly linked to a high degree of chromosomal instability,’ said Professor Gary Ying Wai Chan, one of the corresponding authors of the paper. Next-generation sequencing(NGS) is a powerful tool for detecting genomic instability in diseases such as cancer. In our research, we used NGS to identify mutations in cells lacking PICH, demonstrating its effectiveness in uncovering genetic errors. This productive collaboration with Professor Chan has highlighted the importance of teamwork in scientific research,’ added Professor Ken Hoi Tang Ma, another corresponding author of the study. This study highlights the critical role of PICH in maintaining the integrity of human genetic material. Understanding how PICH works opens new possibilities for developing treatments for diseases caused by genetic instability, such as cancer. ‘By targeting pathways involving PICH, we may be able to develop new therapies to prevent or treat these conditions,’ explained Professor Gary Ying Wai Chan. The findings are detailed in the paper ‘The Interplay of the Translocase Activity and Protein Recruitment Function of PICH in Ultrafine Anaphase Bridge Resolution and Genomic Stability’, published in the journal Nucleic Acids Research. A group photo of key members of the research team. From left: PhD student Ms Kun CHEN from the School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, HKU; Professor Ken Hoi Tang MA from the Department of Pathology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, HKU; and Professor Gary Ying Wai CHAN and Postdoctoral Fellow Dr Nannan KONG from the School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, HKU.   Click here to access the full paper.  For more information about the research teams, please visit their respective websites: Professor Gary Ying Wai Chan Professor Ken Hoi Tang Ma

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HKU Ecologists Uncover Significant Ecological Impact of Hybrid Grouper Release through Religious Practices

Ecologists from the School of Biological Sciences (SBS) and the Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) have identified significant ecological risks associated with the release of hybrid groupers into Hong Kong’s coastal waters, a practice often linked to religious ‘mercy release’ rituals. Their study highlights how the Tiger Grouper-Giant Grouper hybrid (TGGG), also known as the Sabah grouper, disrupts local marine ecosystems by exploiting unique ecological niches and potentially becoming a dominant predator. This research, the first to use advanced DNA metabarcoding to analyse the diet of this hybrid species, underscores the urgent need for public education and conservation measures to mitigate unintended ecological impacts. The findings have been published in the journal Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries.   Hybrid Groupers: A Popular Market Species with Hidden Ecological Threats The TGGG is a hybrid species bred through aquaculture by crossing the Tiger Grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) with the Giant Grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus). Valued for its large size and rapid growth, it is a common sight in Hong Kong’s fish markets. Its affordability and impressive size have also made it a popular choice for local mercy release practices, where animals are released into the wild as an act of spiritual merit. However, this seemingly benevolent act has significant ecological consequences. To explore the potential ecological effects of releasing hybrid groupers into Hong Kong’s coastal waters, our research team utilised DNA metabarcoding to analyse the diet of TGGG. Becoming the first to apply this method to study the dietary habits of this hybrid species, the team extracted and sequenced DNA from the hybrid’s stomach contents, allowing them to identify its prey, even when the prey was fully digested or fragmented. This innovative approach provides a detailed and accurate picture of the hybrid’s dietary habits and its interactions with local marine ecosystems. Innovative DNA Analysis Highlights the Threat The study found that the TGGG is a formidable predator with a distinctive diet, feeding on various prey species not typically consumed by native species—including fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. By exploiting broader ecological niches and gaps in the ecosystem where resources or habitats are underused, the TGGG disrupts local food webs and is highly likely to thrive and establish itself as a dominant predator. ‘Our findings show that the TGGG is not just another introduced species, it has the potential to significantly disrupt trophic dynamics and reshape coastal ecosystems,’ said Professor Celia SCHUNTER of HKU SBS and SWIMS, the study’s lead investigator. The researchers warn that the rapid growth, large size, and absence of natural predators in Hong Kong’s waters make it an exceptionally competitive species. These traits, combined with the availability of vacant ecological niches, pose a serious threat to the balance of marine biodiversity in Hong Kong’s coastal ecosystems. The study also draws attention to the role of mercy release practices in introducing non-native species like the TGGG into local waters. Dr Arthur CHUNG, the postdoctoral fellow of HKU SBS and SWIMS and co-author of the study, emphasised the importance of addressing these risks, ‘This study underscores the need for careful monitoring and management to mitigate the unintended impacts of human activities on biodiversity.’ The researchers stressed that public education and stricter conservation measures are essential to minimising the ecological damage caused by mercy release and other human activities. These efforts are critical for preserving the health of Hong Kong’s marine ecosystems. About the journal paper: Chung, A., & Schunter, C. (2024). Distinct resource utilization by introduced man-made grouper hybrid: an overlooked anthropogenic impact from a longstanding religious practice. Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11160-024-09907-6 .

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HKU Ecologist Highlights Critical Gaps in Global Wildlife Trade Monitoring

Wildlife trade poses one of the greatest threats to the survival of numerous species. According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), at least 50,000 species are involved in trade. However, while this figure already seems huge, it risks overlooking less traditional sectors of wildlife trade, such as the pet or fashion trade. For instance, recent data shows that the number of butterflies traded exceeds the total number of terrestrial arthropods in the IPBES assessment. This raises a critical question: How many wild species are actually being traded globally? This question remains hard to answer. While species classified as potentially endangered by trade may be monitored under the auspices of CITES, most wildlife trade is legal and falls outside the scope of any overarching international legislation or monitoring. One notable exception is in the United States, where the US Fish and Wildlife Service tracks traded wildlife through the Law Enforcement Management Information System (LEMIS).   A striking Jayapura green tree python, likely wild-caught, highlighting the beauty and vulnerability of species in the wildlife trade. Photo Courtesy of Julie Lockwood. Using 22 years of LEMIS data, a recent study led by Professor Alice C. HUGHES, Associate Professor of the School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong (HKU), in collaboration with international researchers, explores the dimensions of wildlife trade and obtain one of the most comprehensive overviews to date. Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), the study reveals striking findings: between 2000 and 2022, the US traded almost 30,000 wild species and over 2.85 billion individuals, with over 50% of individuals from most taxa sourced directly from the wild. These findings are significant as the impact of trade on most of these species has never been assessed. While the US provides detailed records of traded species, comparable data is lacking in most other countries. For most species in trade, we lack data on offtake or wild population size, making it impossible to assess the sustainability of the trade. However, in cases where assessments have been made, the majority of populations subjected to harvesting have shown declines. This paper highlights the true scale and diversity of legal wildlife trade. Remarkably, less than 0.01% of the wildlife trade recorded in the US was illegal, meaning that these billions of individuals are not only traded legally, but for most taxa, the majority come from the wild. The research also highlights how little we genuinely know about what makes up wildlife trade globally. The lack of systematic monitoring not only hinders our ability to understand or monitor trade but also precludes any opportunity to manage it sustainably. The study advances our understanding of wildlife trade, and the codes developed will facilitate the standardisation and analysis of further trade data. With the second part of CBD-COP16 scheduled for February 2025, we hope this paper highlights the importance of evaluating how wildlife trade data is recorded and shared and encourages effort toward more comparable global datasets.   This graphic illustrates data from LEMIS on wildlife in trade in the United States, showing the number of individuals traded for each animal group. Image adapted from the journal paper The magnitude of legal wildlife trade and implications for species survival (PNAS, 2025). The findings are detailed in the paper 'The magnitude of legal wildlife trade and implications for species survival', published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). View the full article here.   

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HKU Ecologists Reveal Key Genetic Insights for the Conservation of Iconic Cockatoo Species

Ecologists at the School of Biological Sciences of The University of Hong Kong (HKU) have made valuable discoveries that could transform the conservation of two iconic cockatoo species: the Sulphur-crested cockatoos and the critically endangered Yellow-crested cockatoos – with only 2,000 individuals remaining in the wild for the latter. Until now, no whole-genome research had been conducted on either species, which were identified solely by subtle morphological differences. Through two innovative studies, the team uncovered new genetic insights, reshaping our understanding of these species and offering fresh hope for their survival amid severe threats from habitat loss and illegal trapping. These findings, recently published in high-impact scientific journals Molecular Biology and Evolution, and Molecular Ecology, will be highly influential in guiding future conservation efforts. Triton Cockatoo reconfirmed as a distinct species after a century in obscurity Although originally believed to be two distinct species, for over a century the Triton Cockatoo (Cacatua triton) has been thought to be the same species as the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) due to their similar appearance and with the distribution of the singular species including Australia and New Guinea. However, the study in Molecular Biology and Evolution, using cutting-edge genomic analysis, has reconfirmed that the Triton Cockatoo is, in fact, a distinct species occurring across the majority of New Guinea, with the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo now known to be restricted to just Australia and a very small portion of southern New Guinea. This finding has profound implications for conservation, particularly in New Guinea where both species exist and where programmes led by the Indonesian government and NGOs aim to reintroduce surrendered pet birds into the wild on the western part of the island to counter the effects of climate change, land-use change, and poaching. Dr Arthur SANDS, an expert on cockatoos from SBS and the main author of the study in Molecular Biology and Evolution, emphasised the importance of this distinction, he said, ‘Introducing the wrong species in the wrong place could jeopardise their long-term survival in the wild through hybridisation or competition between the Triton Cockatoo and the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, potentially even disrupting ecosystems in the long term.’ He stressed that such reintroduction programmes must incorporate genetic data moving forward to avoid this. Recognising the Triton Cockatoo as a distinct species will now also require updates to global legislation, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) which aims to protect these and many other parrot species, and may require new levels of protection being issued given the split. The other study, in Molecular Ecology, focused on the critically endangered Yellow-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea), native to Indonesia and East Timor, using DNA extracted from 100-year-old museum specimens to elucidate genetic diversity among subspecies. This approach, known as ‘museomics’, involves studying genetic materials from preserved specimens kept in museums, in this case across the USA and Europe. It allows researchers to gather vital biological data without disturbing the remaining endangered individuals in the wild. A preserved Yellow-crested Cockatoo specimen, collected in 1911 and housed at the Bavarian State Collection, Munich. Specimens like this provide invaluable genetic data for conservation research. Photo credit: Arthur Sands Preserved cockatoo specimens stored in wooden drawers at the Bavarian State Collection, Munich. These valuable collections serve as important resources for genetic research and conservation planning. Photo credit: Arthur Sands   This research identified three genetically distinct groups across the Wallacean region, a biogeographical zone that lies between the Asian and Australian continental shelves, simplifying the previous classification of seven subspecies. The findings suggest that the subspecies C. s. citrinocristata may not be as distinct as previously thought and raises questions about how the isolated C. s. abbotti population ended up on a remote Indonesian island, given that cockatoos are not known for long-distance migration. These discoveries redefine the genetic structure of the Yellow-crested Cockatoo and offer new insights into its evolution and distribution. Dr Astrid ANDERSSON, who led the study in Molecular Ecology explained, ‘One of the benefits of museomics is the ability to examine genetic data from taxa that are extinct, rare or inaccessible. In this case, it provides valuable information to inform conservation efforts, such as translocation, genetic rescue and breeding—steps that are crucial to avoid global extinction of C. sulphurea.’ Professor Juha MERILÄ, Associate Director (Ecology & Biodiversity Research Groups) and Chair Professor of SBS, who leads the research group where Drs SANDS and ANDERSSON are based, stated, ‘Accurate identification of evolutionarily significant units and species is essential for the effective management and conservation of rare and threatened species. Our research highlights the genetic diversity within and among these iconic cockatoo species and underscores the importance of incorporating genetic data into conservation planning.’ Highly sterile laboratory bench used for the extraction of DNA from old museum specimens in Giessen, Germany. Photo credit: Arthur Sands  

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HKU Laboratory for Space Research Leads Efforts in Space Sustainability and STEM Education

The Laboratory for Space Research (LSR) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has been at the forefront of promoting global awareness about the critical challenges of space sustainability and the growing importance of STEM education in the rapidly evolving NewSpace economy. Recently, LSR played a pivotal role in organising a landmark Space Sustainability and Space Debris Conference at HKU, where over 70 delegates from over 20 countries gathered to address the existential threat of the Kessler syndrome. This phenomenon, caused by the accumulation of space debris in low Earth orbit (LEO), jeopardises the future of satellite operations and global connectivity. The conference, co-sponsored by prestigious international organisations such as the International Academy of Astronautics and endorsed by the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs, marked a historic collaboration among stakeholders from academia, government, and industry. As the director of LSR, Professor Quentin Parker also participated in the 2024 International Symposium on the Peaceful Use of Space Technology – Health, a prestigious event aimed at promoting international collaboration and innovation in utilising space technologies for peaceful purposes, particularly in advancing global health and medical research. The symposium provided a platform for experts worldwide to exchange ideas, explore cutting-edge applications of space technology in healthcare, and address critical challenges in improving human well-being through space-driven solutions. As a keynote speaker at the symposium, he emphasised the vital role of STEM education in equipping future generations to thrive and innovate within the burgeoning NewSpace economy, projected to exceed $1.5 trillion in value by the mid-2030s. Under the leadership of LSR, these initiatives not only advance the global dialogue on space sustainability but also position Hong Kong as a leading international hub for fostering innovation, collaboration, and action to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for humanity in space.

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3,000 Kilometers 4 Months and 1 Tiny Traveler – The Chestnut Tiger’s Epic Flight from Japan to Hong Kong

While many Hongkongers head to Japan for their holidays, it seems one little traveller has flipped the script. A butterfly has made the reverse journey, flying an incredible 3,000 kilometres from Japan to Hong Kong—perhaps for its own winter getaway! On August 18, 2024, two butterfly markers, Mr Masayoshi SHIMIZU and Mr Hiroki TAKIZAWA, spent the day placing stickers on the wings of the Chestnut Tiger butterfly (Parantica sita) in the Grandeco Ski Resort located in the Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. This species of butterfly is well-known for its long-distance migrations, and marking or tagging their wings provides valuable data about their movement, including how far they travel, the direction they take, and how long they survive. Over the course of the season, Mr Shimizu and Mr Takizawa spent six days at Grandeco and managed to tag an impressive 481 butterflies. The Chestnut Tiger (Parantica sita) captured in Repulse Bay on Dec 21 2024 was tagged in Japan on Aug 18 2024. Photo courtesy: Yuet Fung Ling. Hiroki Takizawa (Left) and Masayoshi Shimizu (Right) worked together to tag the butterflies at Grandeco Ski Resort, including the individual captured in Hong Kong in Dec 2024.   Fast forward to December 21, 2024, Dr Yuet Fung LING, a postdoctoral fellow in the School of Biological Sciences (SBS) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU), was out catching butterflies in Repulse Bay. To his surprise, he spotted a male Chestnut Tiger – a rare species in Hong Kong – with a sticker on its wing. Even more surprisingly, written on the sticker were Japanese characters and the date ‘Aug 18’, confirming that this butterfly had been tagged in Fukushima four months earlier. Team leaders of the Danaid Butterfly Research Hong Kong: (from left to right) Yuet Fung Ling, Emily Jones, and Timothy Bonebrake. Photo courtesy: Timothy Bonebrake. Dr Ling works with Professor Timothy BONEBRAKE and PhD candidate Miss Emily JONES at SBS. Together, they lead the Danaid Butterfly Research Hong Kong, a group dedicated to studying the seasonal movements of danaid butterflies in Hong Kong. By carefully placing URL-branded stickers on butterfly wings (similar to those used in Japan), the group tracks the movements of species through public sightings and reports. Through mutual colleagues, the research team managed to connect with Mr Shimizu and Mr Takizawa to confirm the record. The adult butterfly was at least 124 days old and had travelled more than 3,000 km (3,016 km straight-line distance from Grandeco to Repulse Bay). This discovery set a new distance record for the species and is only the third time a butterfly has been detected migrating from Japan to Hong Kong. The previous record, set in 2011, involved a Chestnut Tiger that flew an estimated 2,423 km and lived for 82 days. ‘It’s an astonishing feat. For a little insect like this to fly more than 3,000 km and do so for more than 100 days just shows the physiological capacity for these creatures,’ noted Professor Timothy Bonebrake. ‘The record also highlights how much is left to discover about these important migratory phenomena. To gather data to effectively conserve these migrations, we need more international collaboration like this and active participation from the public.’ After recording the butterfly, Dr Ling released it back into the wild. Whether Hong Kong is its final destination or just another stop on its journey remains a mystery. Researchers are calling on the public to help unravel these mysteries. If you spot a butterfly with a sticker on its wings, report it to the Butterfly Research Hong Kong. Every sighting brings us closer to understanding and protecting these amazing migratory species. To find out more about danaid butterflies and the research efforts of Danaid Butterfly Research Hong Kong, please visit: https://www.instagram.com/danaidhk/ https://www.danaidhk.com/

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Decoding Leaf Greenness: Biologists Unraveled a Regulatory Module that Ensures Chlorophyll Homeostasis in Land Plants

A research team led by Professor Peng WANG from the School of Biological Sciences has made a significant breakthrough in understanding how land plants have evolved to maintain chlorophyll homeostasis during plant development. Their latest findings, published in Molecular Plant, demonstrate a module named BCM1-EGY1 in balancing chlorophyll synthesis and degradation.   Photosynthesis fuels nearly all life on Earth. Chlorophyll is the most abundant photosynthetic pigment that is in charge of light capture and charge separation in photosynthesis. Maintaining stable chlorophyll levels is a prerequisite for efficient photosynthesis and thereby food production. Chlorophyll homeostasis relies on the precise coordination of chlorophyll biosynthesis and degradation. However, the specific mechanism of regulation of chlorophyll metabolism remains unclear. Based on detailed protein interaction results, combined with genetic analysis, this study revealed that the scaffolding protein BCM1 (Balance of Chlorophyll Metabolism 1), the chlorophyll synthesis-related protein GUN4 (Genomes Uncoupled 4) and the chlorophyll decomposition-related protein SGR1 (Mg-dechelatase 1) Carboxyl-terminal (CT) domain-specific interactions. At the same time, the chloroplast protease EGY1 (Ethylene-dependent Gravitropism-deficient and Yellow-green 1) is also involved in the chlorophyll metabolism process mediated by BCM1. This research reveals a specific regulatory mechanism of chlorophyll metabolism in land plants, which synchronises the biosynthesis and decomposition of chlorophyll through the post-translational regulation of GUN4 and SGR1 mediated by BCM1 and EGY1.   The co-evolution of BCM1, GUN4 and SGR1 in chlorophyll metabolism played a crucial role in adapting plants from aquatic to terrestrial. The study found that BCM plays a conserved dual function in regulating chlorophyll metabolism in Arabidopsis and tomato. In Arabidopsis leaves and seeds and tomato leaves and fruits, BCM plays an essential role in maintaining chlorophyll biosynthesis and inhibiting chlorophyll degradation. Further research found that the CT domain of BCM1 is the key to the dual functions of BCM1. The deletion of the CT domain will cause BCM1 to be unable to function in chlorophyll metabolism. The function of the CT domain of BCM1 is highly conserved in Arabidopsis and tomato. It is known that GUN4 protein can activate magnesium chelatase in chlorophyll synthesis to enhance chlorophyll synthesis. Magnesium chelatase encoded by SGR1 is extremely important in the decomposition process of chlorophyll.   This study found that the biological functions of GUN4 and SGR1 depend on their CT domain, and the deletion of the CT domain will lead to the impairment of the biological functions of GUN4 and SGR1. Protein interaction data also indicate that the CT domain is a key in the interaction between GUN4/SGR1 and BCM1. The study further discovered that chloroplast protease EGY1 is an important participant in BCM1-mediated chlorophyll metabolism. EGY1 can interact with BCM1, GUN4 and SGR1, and participate in the BCM1-mediated hydrolysis of SGR1 protein. Genetic and bioinformatics data also indicate that EGY1 and BCM1 jointly regulate the proteostasis of enzymes related to chlorophyll homeostasis.   In summary, this study demonstrates an evolutionary model in which the CT domain of BCM1 interacts with the CT domains of GUN4 and SGR1 to achieve precise regulation of chlorophyll homeostasis. This model further clarifies how plants achieve precise regulation of chlorophyll metabolism during their adaptation to the terrestrial environment.   Click here to learn more about Professor Peng Wang’s research group.   About the research paper: Journal title: “Fu D., Zhou H., Grimm B., and Wang P.* The BCM1-EGY1 module balances chlorophyll biosynthesis and breakdown to confer chlorophyll homeostasis in land plants. Molecular Plant 2024”.  The journal paper can be accessed from here.    Professor Peng WANG The School of Biological Sciences

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HKU deeply saddened by the passing of renowned Nobel Laureate and Chair Professor, Professor Sir Fraser Stoddart

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Professor Sir Fraser Stoddart, Nobel Laureate and Chair Professor in the Department of Chemistry. Professor Stoddart's legacy as a distinguished Nobel Laureate in Chemistry is exemplified by his commitment to the advancement of science and his transformative research, which changed the way chemists think about materials science and molecular nanotechnology – not only during his lifetime but for generations to come. The University was privileged to have Professor Stoddart as a Chair Professor in the Department of Chemistry, where he established a cutting-edge laboratory to advance research in a wide range of areas, including molecular machines and carbohydrate chemistry. Together with the team of outstanding scholars and students he assembled, Professor Stoddart contributed to the enhancement of HKU's profile and prestige as a leading institution in teaching and research globally. The University extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Professor Stoddart. HKU honours his noble achievements and exceptional life, his enduring international impact on science and research, his passion for and support of his students’ development, and his invaluable contributions as a member of the HKU family. The University community now joins together in mourning the loss of a visionary scholar and esteemed colleague.  

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