International

World’s smallest turtle successfully bred for first time in Jalisco Zoo

A zoo in Jalisco, western Mexico, has successfully bred a ‘Casquito’ turtle under professional care for the first time. This species, native to areas near Puerto Vallarta, is considered the world’s smallest turtle and is currently at risk of extinction.

Biologist Ricardo Dávalos, head of the herpetarium at Guadalajara Zoo, told EFE that the species was only discovered in 2018 and now faces a critical threat, with only around 500 individuals remaining. Urban expansion around the Ameca River wetlands, which divide Jalisco and Nayarit and are home to this endemic species, has significantly reduced its natural habitat.

“The construction of residential areas is increasingly encroaching on the areas where some of these turtles live near Puerto Vallarta. On top of that, because it’s a rare species, it becomes more attractive to traffickers. We know that animals have already been trafficked to Japan, China, and Korea,” Dávalos warned.

The Kinosternon vogti, also called the ‘Vallarta Casquito Turtle,’ is recognized for the yellow marking on the males’ noses and reaches only about 10 centimeters in length as adults. Newly hatched turtles measure approximately 2 centimeters, roughly the width of an adult human thumb.

Dávalos explained that after receiving 37 turtles confiscated by Mexico’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in 2023, the zoo managed to successfully mate some pairs in a controlled herpetarium area that simulates their natural habitat.

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International

US panel backs Trump-themed coin amid controversy

The United States Department of the Treasury confirmed to AFP that the Commission of Fine Arts approved the design of a new collectible coin featuring Donald Trump, with members of the commission appointed by the current administration.

According to the proposal, the coin will feature an image of Trump standing with clenched fists over a desk on the obverse, while the reverse will display an eagle, a traditional symbol of the United States.

The sale price of the collectible has not yet been disclosed, although the United States Mint typically offers similar items for more than $1,000.

“There is no more iconic portrait for the front of these coins than that of our president Donald Trump,” U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach said in a statement sent to AFP. He added that two additional coins — a $1 piece and a one-ounce gold coin — are also under consideration.

However, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC), another body responsible for reviewing new coin proposals, declined to discuss the Trump design in late February.

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“Only nations governed by kings or dictators place the image of a sitting leader on their currency,” said Donald Scarinciat the time. “No country in the world has minted coins featuring a democratically elected leader during their term in office,” he added.

When contacted by AFP, the Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.

International

Fed’s Waller warns of rising inflation risks amid Middle East conflict

Christopher Waller, a governor at the Federal Reserve, said Friday that he is increasingly concerned about the inflationary impact of the ongoing conflict involving United States and Israel against Iran, particularly due to the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Waller, who had supported interest rate cuts over the past year amid concerns about the labor market, said he has shifted his stance in recent weeks due to rising inflation risks.

“Since the Strait of Hormuz was closed, it suggests this conflict could be much more prolonged and that oil prices will remain elevated for longer,” Waller said in an interview with CNBC.

“Therefore, this indicates that inflation is a greater concern than I had previously assessed,” he added.

Waller also backed the Federal Reserve’s decision earlier this week to keep interest rates unchanged, signaling a more cautious approach as global geopolitical tensions continue to affect economic outlooks.

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International

Brazil offers to mediate Colombia-Ecuador tensions, calls for restraint

The government of Brazil has offered to mediate in the ongoing tensions between Colombia and Ecuador, while calling on both nations to exercise restraint.

In a statement released Wednesday, Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the parties involved to act with moderation and seek a peaceful resolution to the dispute.

“Brazil encourages all sides to act with moderation in order to find a peaceful solution to the controversy. It stands ready to support dialogue efforts aimed at preserving peace and security in the region,” the statement said.

Brazil also expressed “serious concern” over reports of deaths in the border area between Colombia and Ecuador, noting that the circumstances surrounding the incidents have not yet been clarified.

The diplomatic move comes amid rising tensions between the neighboring countries, increasing regional concern over stability and security along their shared border.