The web is presently some of the necessary technique of communication, which can embody the circulation of misinformation. Snakes have all the time been a goal of the sensationalist media, being pictured as scary and aggressive animals to be killed indiscriminately by people. Such concern primarily based on misinformation could compromise species conservation. Right here, we handle the unfold of misinformation about Bothrops insularis and Queimada Grande Island in digital media, highlighting the detrimental impression on public notion and species conservation. The evaluation of 230 on-line sources revealed that roughly 94% of them contained false info, many utilizing sensationalist language, particularly relating to the toxicity of the venom and the inhabitants density of the snake, in addition to bringing contents that didn’t align with scientific information. Bothrops insularis is a critically endangered species endemic to the island. False info could contribute to the rise in unlawful trafficking, placing the species at higher threat of extinction. We spotlight the significance of accountable scientific communication, recommending extra involvement of consultants in content material creation and the necessity for environmental training to fight sensationalism and promote appreciation of the ecological and pharmacological roles of snakes. Disseminating dependable info is important for conservation and public understanding of biodiversity.
BORGES, W. B., BANCI, Okay. R. D. S., & MARQUES, O. A. V.. (2026). Herpetological misinformation and sensationalism: media framing on organic and ecological elements of the golden lancehead (Bothrops insularis). Anais Da Academia Brasileira De Ciências, 98(1), e20250488. https://doi.org/10.1590/0001-3765202620250488
