Wallacea: The Mysterious Line Where Asia Meets Australasia
Synopsis
80 percent of all species in the rainforests of Sulawesi are endemic, found nowhere else on earth, according to research on the Wallace Line.
Synopsis
Matthias Kopfmüller and his team of marine biologists set off from Bali in 2025 to investigate the Wallace Line, a boundary identified by Alfred Russel Wallace in the 19th century. Their underwater expedition aims to confirm whether species remain separated by ocean currents and underwater geography. Genetic tests reveal strong evidence supporting Wallace's early findings. As the researchers conclude their work, they acknowledge the threats facing this unique ecosystem in Wallacea.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Find out how modern science confirms Wallace's discoveries.
- See the unique marine life along the Wallace Line.
- Meet Matthias Kopfmüller and his team of marine biologists.
Did You Know
- 80 percent of all species in Sulawesi are endemic, found nowhere else.
- The Wallace Line marks a boundary between Asia and Oceania.
- Wallace noted that islands only 30 miles apart can be more different than England and Japan.
- The region is home to 15 percent of the world's coral reefs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of species in the rainforests of Sulawesi are endemic?
Eighty percent of all the species in the rainforests of Sulawesi are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else on earth.
What is the Wallace Line?
The Wallace Line is an imaginary line that marks the boundary between two continents: Asia and Oceania.
What did Alfred Russel Wallace discover about the species in the Malayan Archipelago?
Alfred Russel Wallace discovered that nature in the region was divided by a mysterious barrier, with different plants and animals on either side.
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