Newly discovered pangolin species could aid in fight against extinction

Sign up for CNN's Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. CNN — Pangolins are among the world's most heavily poached animals. The elusive creatures are under threat, but the discovery of a mysterious species that's new to science could help conservationists fight against their extinction, researchers say. There are eight previously known species of pangolin — four found in Asia and four in Africa. Resembling anteaters, the solitary mammals are illegally hunted and trafficked for their meat and distinctive armorlike scales, which some people believe have medicinal value. Scientists studying…