Extinction In Real Time

Extinction In Real Time

What can we do?

Introduction

Many animals disappear from the planet at an alarming rate, affecting not only the species themselves, but also the ecosystems of which they are part and the environmental balance that sustains humanity. In this work we will address the causes, consequences and possible solutions to this problem.

What is animal extinction?

Extinction occurs when a species stop existing across the planet. This process can happen gradually or in abrupt events, depending on environmental conditions and risk factors. During history, the Earth has experienced mass extinction events, such as the end of the dinosaurs, but currently, human action has considerably worsened this problem.

Causes of the animal extinction:

Invasive species

Climate change

Habitat Destruction

Causes of the animal extinction:

Pollution

Excessive hunting and fishing

Consequences of animal extinction:

The extinction of species causes a ripple effect on ecosystems. When a species disappears, there is a loss of genetic diversity, making the ecosystem less resistant to disease and natural disasters. Among the main consequences are:

Consequences of animal extinction:

Solutions and Conservation Measures

Legislations against illegal hunting, animal trade and habitat destruction help protect species.

Protective Laws and Regulations:

The creation of national parks and environmental reserves, helps preserve natural habitats and reduce pressure on species at risk.

Creation of Protected Areas:

Solutions and Conservation Measures

Reducing the consumption of natural resources, reducing waste production and adopting more sustainable practices contributes to the preservation of habitats.

Reducing the Ecological Footprint:

Raising awareness among the population about the importance of conservation and the impacts of extinction promotes sustainable attitudes and supports conservation projects.

Environmental Education:

Conclusion

Animal extinction is an environmental problem that deserves a lot of attention, as it threatens the natural balance and, in the long term, human survival. By understanding its causes and consequences, we can adopt attitudes and policies to prevent and, possibly, reverse this process. Fauna conservation is an investment in the future of the planet and a fundamental step towards ensuring diversity and quality of life for all species, including ours.

Edward Osborne Wilson

“We should preserve every scrap of biodiversity as priceless while we learn to use it and come to understand what it means to humanity.”

Thank you!

Work carried out by the students:Beatriz Silva Nº4 Francisco Barroso Nº10 11A

The extinction of a species affects an entire food chain, which can cause overpopulation of some species and a shortage of others, damaging the functioning of the ecosystem.

Ecological Imbalance:

The introduction of non-native species into different environments can unbalance local ecosystems, competing for resources and preying on local species, which leads to the extinction of several of them.

Invasive species

Rising global temperatures, ocean acidification and changes in weather patterns affect entire ecosystems, forcing species to migrate or adapt quickly, which is not always possible.

Climate Change

Agricultural exploitation, deforestation, urbanization and mining destroy natural habitats, leading to the loss of places essential for the survival of several species.

Habitat Destruction

Animals perform crucial functions such as pollination, pest control, decomposition and seed dispersal. The absence of these services affects food production and air and water quality.

Loss of Ecosystem Services:

Water, soil and air pollution has a direct impact on fauna. Toxic chemicals, such as pesticides and heavy metals, contaminate the environment and affect animal health.

Pollution

Illegal hunting and uncontrolled fishing contribute to the disappearance of species. Hunting for commercial purposes and accidental capture in industrial fishing nets pose a serious threat to several species.

Excessive hunting and fishing

Loss of biodiversity can increase the spread of diseases, as many pathogens spread more quickly in unbalanced environments.

Impact on Human Health: