cause and effect of endangered species essay

Endangered Species

An endangered species is a type of organism that is threatened by extinction. Species become endangered for two main reasons: loss of habitat and loss of genetic variation.

Biology, Ecology, Geography, Conservation

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An endangered species is a type of organism that is threatened by extinction . Species become endangered for two main reasons: loss of habitat and loss of genetic variation . Loss of Habitat A loss of habitat can happen naturally. Nonavian dinosaurs , for instance, lost their habitat about 65 million years ago. The hot, dry climate of the Cretaceous period changed very quickly, most likely because of an asteroid striking Earth. The impact of the asteroid forced debris into the atmosphere , reducing the amount of heat and light that reached Earth’s surface. The dinosaurs were unable to adapt to this new, cooler habitat. Nonavian dinosaurs became endangered, then extinct . Human activity can also contribute to a loss of habitat. Development for housing, industry , and agriculture reduces the habitat of native organisms. This can happen in a number of different ways. Development can eliminate habitat and native species directly. In the Amazon rainforest of South America, developers have cleared hundreds of thousands of acres. To “clear” a piece of land is to remove all trees and vegetation from it. The Amazon rainforest is cleared for cattle ranches , logging , and ur ban use. Development can also endanger species indirectly. Some species, such as fig trees of the rainforest, may provide habitat for other species. As trees are destroyed, species that depend on that tree habitat may also become endangered. Tree crowns provide habitat in the canopy , or top layer, of a rainforest . Plants such as vines, fungi such as mushrooms, and insects such as butterflies live in the rainforest canopy. So do hundreds of species of tropical birds and mammals such as monkeys. As trees are cut down, this habitat is lost. Species have less room to live and reproduce . Loss of habitat may happen as development takes place in a species range . Many animals have a range of hundreds of square kilometers. The mountain lion ( Puma concolor ) of North America, for instance, has a range of up to 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles). To successfully live and reproduce, a single mountain lion patrols this much territory. Urban areas , such as Los Angeles, California, U.S.A., and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, grew rapidly during the 20th century. As these areas expanded into the wilderness, the mountain lion’s habitat became smaller. That means the habitat can support fewer mountain lions. Because enormous parts of the Sierra Nevada, Rocky, and Cascade mountain ranges remain undeveloped, however, mountain lions are not endangered. Loss of habitat can also lead to increased encounters between wild species and people. As development brings people deeper into a species range, they may have more exposure to wild species. Poisonous plants and fungi may grow closer to homes and schools. Wild animals are also spotted more frequently . These animals are simply patrolling their range, but interaction with people can be deadly. Polar bears ( Ursus maritimus ), mountain lions, and alligators are all predators brought into close contact with people as they lose their habitat to homes, farms , and businesses. As people kill these wild animals, through pesticides , accidents such as collisions with cars, or hunting, native species may become endangered.

Loss of Genetic Variation Genetic variation is the diversity found within a species. It’s why human beings may have blond, red, brown, or black hair. Genetic variation allows species to adapt to changes in the environment. Usually, the greater the population of a species, the greater its genetic variation. Inbreeding is reproduction with close family members. Groups of species that have a tendency to inbreed usually have little genetic variation, because no new genetic information is introduced to the group. Disease is much more common, and much more deadly, among inbred groups. Inbred species do not have the genetic variation to develop resistance to the disease. For this reason, fewer offspring of inbred groups survive to maturity. Loss of genetic variation can occur naturally. Cheetahs ( Acinonyx jubatus ) are a threatened species native to Africa and Asia. These big cats have very little genetic variation. Biologists say that during the last Ice Age , cheetahs went through a long period of inbreeding. As a result, there are very few genetic differences between cheetahs. They cannot adapt to changes in the environment as quickly as other animals, and fewer cheetahs survive to maturity. Cheetahs are also much more difficult to breed in captivity than other big cats, such as lions ( Panthera leo ). Human activity can also lead to a loss of genetic variation. Overhunting and overfishing have reduced the populations of many animals. Reduced population means there are fewer breeding pairs . A breeding pair is made up of two mature members of the species that are not closely related and can produce healthy offspring. With fewer breeding pairs, genetic variation shrinks. Monoculture , the agricultural method of growing a single crop , can also reduce genetic variation. Modern agribusiness relies on monocultures. Almost all potatoes cultivated , sold, and consumed, for instance, are from a single species, the Russet Burbank ( Solanum tuberosum ). Potatoes, native to the Andes Mountains of South America, have dozens of natural varieties. The genetic variation of wild potatoes allows them to adapt to climate change and disease. For Russet Burbanks, however, farmers must use fertilizers and pesticides to ensure healthy crops because the plant has almost no genetic variation. Plant breeders often go back to wild varieties to collect genes that will help cultivated plants resist pests and drought, and adapt to climate change. However, climate change is also threatening wild varieties. That means domesticated plants may lose an important source of traits that help them overcome new threats. The Red List The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) keeps a “Red List of Threatened Species.” The Red List de fines the severity and specific causes of a species’ threat of extinction. The Red List has seven levels of conservation: least concern , near threatened , vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered , extinct in the wild , and extinct. Each category represents a different threat level. Species that are not threatened by extinction are placed within the first two categories—least concern and near-threatened. Those that are most threatened are placed within the next three categories, known as the threatened categories —vulnerable, endangered, and critically endangered. Those species that are extinct in some form are placed within the last two categories—extinct in the wild and extinct. Classifying a species as endangered has to do with its range and habitat, as well as its actual population. For this reason, a species can be of least concern in one area and endangered in another. The gray whale ( Eschrichtius robustus ), for instance, has a healthy population in the eastern Pacific Ocean, along the coast of North and South America. The population in the western Pacific, however, is critically endangered.

Least Concern Least concern is the lowest level of conservation . A species of least concern is one that has a widespread and abundant population. Human beings are a species of least concern, along with most domestic animals , such as dogs ( Canis familiaris ) and cats ( Felis catus ). Many wild animals, such as pigeons and houseflies ( Musca domestica ), are also classified as least concern. Near Threatened A near threatened species is one that is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future. Many species of violets , native to tropical jungles in South America and Africa, are near threatened, for instance. They have healthy populations, but their rainforest habitat is disappearing at a fast pace. People are cutting down huge areas of rainforest for development and timber . Many violet species are likely to become threatened. Vulnerable Species The definitions of the three threatened categories (vulnerable, endangered, and critically endangered) are based on five criteria: population reduction rate , geographic range, population size, population restrictions , and probability of extinction . Threatened categories have different thresholds for these criteria. As the population and range of the species decreases, the species becomes more threatened. 1) Population reduction rate A species is classified as vulnerable if its population has declined between 30 and 50 percent. This decline is measured over 10 years or three generations of the species, whichever is longer. A generation is the period of time between the birth of an animal and the time it is able to reproduce. Mice are able to reproduce when they are about one month old. Mouse populations are mostly tracked over 10-year periods. An elephant's generation lasts about 15 years. So, elephant populations are measured over 45-year periods. A species is vulnerable if its population has declined at least 50 percent and the cause of the decline is known. Habitat loss is the leading known cause of population decline. A species is also classified as vulnerable if its population has declined at least 30 percent and the cause of the decline is not known. A new, unknown virus , for example, could kill hundreds or even thousands of individuals before being identified. 2) Geographic range A species is vulnerable if its “ extent of occurrence ” is estimated to be less than 20,000 square kilometers (7,722 square miles). An extent of occurrence is the smallest area that could contain all sites of a species’ population. If all members of a species could survive in a single area, the size of that area is the species’ extent of occurrence. A species is also classified as vulnerable if its “ area of occupancy ” is estimated to be less than 2,000 square kilometers (772 square miles). An area of occupancy is where a specific population of that species resides. This area is often a breeding or nesting site in a species range. 3) Population size Species with fewer than 10,000 mature individuals are vulnerable. The species is also vulnerable if that population declines by at least 10 percent within 10 years or three generations, whichever is longer. 4) Population restrictions Population restriction is a combination of population and area of occupancy. A species is vulnerable if it is restricted to less than 1,000 mature individuals or an area of occupancy of less than 20 square kilometers (8 square miles). 5) Probability of extinction in the wild is at least 10 percent within 100 years. Biologists, anthropologists, meteorologists , and other scientists have developed complex ways to determine a species’ probability of extinction. These formulas calculate the chances a species can survive, without human protection, in the wild. Vulnerable Species: Ethiopian Banana Frog The Ethiopian banana frog ( Afrixalus enseticola ) is a small frog native to high- altitude areas of southern Ethiopia. It is a vulnerable species because its area of occupancy is less than 2,000 square kilometers (772 square miles). The extent and quality of its forest habitat are in decline. Threats to this habitat include forest clearance, mostly for housing and agriculture. Vulnerable Species: Snaggletooth Shark The snaggletooth shark ( Hemipristis elongatus ) is found in the tropical, coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its area of occupancy is enormous, from Southeast Africa to the Philippines, and from China to Australia. However, the snaggletooth shark is a vulnerable species because of a severe population reduction rate. Its population has fallen more than 10 percent over 10 years. The number of these sharks is declining due to fisheries, especially in the Java Sea and Gulf of Thailand. The snaggletooth shark’s flesh, fins, and liver are considered high-quality foods. They are sold in commercial fish markets, as well as restaurants. Vulnerable Species: Galapagos Kelp Galapagos kelp ( Eisenia galapagensis ) is a type of seaweed only found near the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Galapagos kelp is classified as vulnerable because its population has declined more than 10 percent over 10 years. Climate change is the leading cause of decline among Galapagos kelp. El Niño, the natural weather pattern that brings unusually warm water to the Galapagos, is the leading agent of climate change in this area. Galapagos kelp is a cold-water species and does not adapt quickly to changes in water temperature.

Endangered Species 1) Population reduction rate A species is classified as endangered when its population has declined between 50 and 70 percent. This decline is measured over 10 years or three generations of the species, whichever is longer. A species is classified as endangered when its population has declined at least 70 percent and the cause of the decline is known. A species is also classified as endangered when its population has declined at least 50 percent and the cause of the decline is not known. 2) Geographic range An endangered species’ extent of occurrence is less than 5,000 square kilometers (1,930 square miles). An endangered species’ area of occupancy is less than 500 square kilometers (193 square miles). 3) Population size A species is classified as endangered when there are fewer than 2,500 mature individuals. When a species population declines by at least 20 percent within five years or two generations, it is also classified as endangered. 4) Population restrictions A species is classified as endangered when its population is restricted to less than 250 mature individuals. When a species’ population is this low, its area of occupancy is not considered. 5) Probability of extinction in the wild is at least 20 percent within 20 years or five generations, whichever is longer.

Endangered Species: Scimitar -horned Oryx The scimitar-horned oryx ( Oryx dammah ) is a species of antelope with long horns. Its range extends across northern Africa. Previously, the scimitar-horned oryx was listed as extinct in the wild because the last confirmed sighting of one was in 1988. However, the first group of scimitar-horned oryx was released back into the wild in Chad, in August 2016, and the population is growing. Overhunting and habitat loss, including competition with domestic livestock , are the main reasons for the decline of the oryx’s wild population. Captive herds are now kept in protected areas of Tunisia, Senegal, and Morocco. Scimitar-horned oryxes are also found in many zoos . Critically Endangered Species 1) Population reduction rate A critically endangered species’ population has declined between 80 and 90 percent. This decline is measured over 10 years or three generations of the species, whichever is longer. A species is classified as critically endangered when its population has declined at least 90 percent and the cause of the decline is known. A species is also classified as endangered when its population has declined at least 80 percent and the cause of the decline is not known. 2) Geographic range A critically endangered species’ extent of occurrence is less than 100 square kilometers (39 square miles). A critically endangered species’ area of occupancy is estimated to be less than 10 square kilometers (4 square miles). 3) Population size A species is classified as critically endangered when there are fewer than 250 mature individuals. A species is also classified as critically endangered when the number of mature individuals declines by at least 25 percent within three years or one generation, whichever is longer. 4) Population restrictions A species is classified as critically endangered when its population is restricted to less than 50 mature individuals. When a species’ population is this low, its area of occupancy is not considered. 5) Probability of extinction in the wild is at least 50 percent within 10 years or three generations, whichever is longer. Critically Endangered Species: Bolivian Chinchilla Rat The Bolivian chinchilla rat ( Abrocoma boliviensis ) is a rodent found in a small section of the Santa Cruz region of Bolivia. It is critically endangered because its extent of occurrence is less than 100 square kilometers (39 square miles). The major threat to this species is loss of its cloud forest habitat. People are clearing forests to create cattle pastures .

Critically Endangered Species: Transcaucasian Racerunner The Transcaucasian racerunner ( Eremias pleskei ) is a lizard found on the Armenian Plateau , located in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey. The Transcaucasian racerunner is a critically endangered species because of a huge population decline, estimated at more than 80 percent during the past 10 years. Threats to this species include the salination , or increased saltiness, of soil . Fertilizers used for agricultural development seep into the soil, increasing its saltiness. Racerunners live in and among the rocks and soil, and cannot adapt to the increased salt in their food and shelter. The racerunner is also losing habitat as people create trash dumps on their area of occupancy. Critically Endangered Species: White Ferula Mushroom The white ferula mushroom ( Pleurotus nebrodensis ) is a critically endangered species of fungus. The mushroom is critically endangered because its extent of occurrence is less than 100 square kilometers (39 square miles). It is only found in the northern part of the Italian island of Sicily, in the Mediterranean Sea. The leading threats to white ferula mushrooms are loss of habitat and overharvesting. White ferula mushrooms are a gourmet food item. Farmers and amateur mushroom hunters harvest the fungus for food and profit. The mushrooms can be sold for up to $100 per kilogram (2.2 pounds). Extinct in the Wild A species is extinct in the wild when it only survives in cultivation (plants), in captivity (animals), or as a population well outside its established range. A species may be listed as extinct in the wild only after years of surveys have failed to record an individual in its native or expected habitat.

Extinct in the Wild: Monut Kaala Cyanea The Mount Kaala cyanea ( Cyanea superba ) is a large, flowering tree native to the island of Oahu, in the U.S. state of Hawai‘i. The Mount Kaala cyanea has large, broad leaves and fleshy fruit. The tree is extinct in the wild largely because of invasive species. Non-native plants crowded the cyanea out of its habitat, and non-native animals such as pigs, rats, and slugs ate its fruit more quickly than it could reproduce. Mount Kaala cyanea trees survive in tropical nurseries and botanical gardens . Many botanists and conservationists look forward to establishing a new population in the wild. Extinct A species is extinct when there is no reasonable doubt that the last remaining individual of that species has died. Extinct: Cuban Macaw The Cuban macaw ( Ara tricolor ) was a tropical parrot native to Cuba and a small Cuban island, Isla de la Juventud. Hunting and collecting the birds for pets led to the bird’s extinction. The last specimen of the Cuban macaw was collected in 1864. Extinct: Ridley’s Stick Insect Ridley’s stick insect ( Pseudobactricia ridleyi ) was native to the tropical jungle of the island of Singapore. This insect, whose long, segmented body resembled a tree limb, is only known through a single specimen, collected more than 100 years ago. During the 20th century, Singapore experienced rapid development. Almost the entire jungle was cleared, depriving the insect of its habitat.

Endangered Species and People When a species is classified as endangered, governments and international organizations can work to protect it. Laws may limit hunting and destruction of the species’ habitat. Individuals and organizations that break these laws may face huge fines. Because of such actions, many species have recovered from their endangered status. The brown pelican ( Pelecanus occidentalis ) was taken off the endangered species list in 2009, for instance. This seabird is native to the coasts of North America and South America, as well as the islands of the Caribbean Sea. It is the state bird of the U.S. state of Louisiana. In 1970, the number of brown pelicans in the wild was estimated at 10,000. The bird was classified as vulnerable. During the 1970s and 1980s, governments and conservation groups worked to help the brown pelican recover. Young chicks were reared in hatching sites, then released into the wild. Human access to nesting sites was severely restricted. The pesticide DDT , which damaged the eggs of the brown pelican, was banned. During the 1980s, the number of brown pelicans soared. In 1988, the IUCN “delisted” the brown pelican. The bird, whose population is now in the hundreds of thousands, is now in the category of least concern.

Convention on Biological Diversity The Convention on Biological Diversity is an international treaty to sustain and protect the diversity of life on Earth. This includes conservation, sustainability, and sharing the benefits of genetic research and resources. The Convention on Biological Diversity has adopted the IUCN Red List of endangered species in order to monitor and research species' population and habitats. Three nations have not ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity: Andorra, the Holy See (Vatican), and the United States.

Lonesome George Lonesome George was the only living member of the Pinta Island tortoise ( Chelonoidis abingdoni ) known to exist. The Pinta Island tortoise was only found on Pinta, one of the Galapagos Islands. The Charles Darwin Research Station, a scientific facility in the Galapagos, offered a $10,000 reward to any zoo or individual for locating a single Pinta Island tortoise female. On June 25, 2012, Lonesome George died, leaving one more extinct species in the world.

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News from the Columbia Climate School

Why Endangered Species Matter

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) was established in 1973 to protect “imperiled species and the ecosystems upon which they depend” and help them recover.

The Trump administration has put forth a number of proposals that would weaken the ESA. These include measures to allow for the consideration of economic impacts when enforcing the ESA, ending the practice of automatically giving threatened species the same protection as endangered species, and making it easier to remove species from the endangered list.

In a way, this is nothing new because the ESA has been under attack for decades from construction, development, logging, water management, fossil fuel extraction and other industries that contend the act stifles economic development. But between 2016 and 2018 alone, there were almost 150 attempts to undercut the ESA; and last year, from July 8 to 22, Republicans in Congress or the Trump administration introduced 24 such measures and spending bill riders.

These bills included efforts to remove the gray wolf’s protected status in Wyoming and the western Great Lakes; a plan to remove from the endangered list the American burying beetle that lives on oil-rich land; and a strategy to roll back protection of the sage-grouse, which also inhabits oil-rich land in the West and whose numbers have declined 90 percent since the West was first settled. The Trump Administration recently opened up nine million acres of sage-grouse habitat to drilling and mining.

Endangered species, if not protected, could eventually become extinct—and extinction has a myriad of implications for our food, water, environment and even health.

Extinction rates are accelerating

Ninety-nine percent of all species that have ever lived have gone extinct over the course of five mass extinctions, which, in the past, were largely a result of natural causes such as volcano eruptions and asteroid impacts. Today, the rate of extinction is occurring 1,000 to 10,000 times faster because of human activity. The main modern causes of extinction are the loss and degradation of habitat (mainly deforestation), over exploitation (hunting, overfishing), invasive species, climate change, and nitrogen pollution.

There are also other threats to species such as the pervasive plastic pollution in the ocean—a recent study found that 100 percent of sea turtles had plastic or microplastic in their systems.

Emerging diseases affecting more and more wildlife species such as bats, frogs and salamanders are the result of an increase in travel and trade, which allows pests and pathogens to hitch rides to new locations, and warming temperatures that enable more pests to survive and spread. Wildlife trafficking also continues to be a big problem because for some species, the fewer members there are, the more valuable they become to poachers and hunters.

How many species are endangered?

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species , over 26,500 species are in danger of extinction. This includes 40 percent of amphibians, 34 percent of conifers, 33 percent of reef-building corals , 25 percent of mammals and 14 percent of birds. In the U.S., over 1,600 species are listed as threatened or endangered.

A 2018 report by the Endangered Species Coalition found that ten species in particular are “imperiled” by the Trump administration’s proposals: California condor, giraffe, Hellbender salamander, Humboldt marten, leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles, red wolf, rusty patched bumble bee,

San Bernardino kangaroo rat, West Indian manatee, and Western yellow-billed cuckoo.

The web of life

While it may seem unimportant if we lose one salamander or rat species, it matters because all species are connected through their interactions in a web of life. A balanced and biodiverse ecosystem is one in which each species plays an important role and relies on the services provided by other species to survive. Healthy ecosystems are more productive and resistant to disruptions.

A recent study found that extreme environmental change could trigger an “extinction domino effect.” One of the study’s authors said, “Because all species are connected in the web of life, our paper demonstrates that even the most tolerant species ultimately succumb to extinction when the less-tolerant species on which they depend disappear.” So saving one species means saving its habitat and the other species that live there too.

“When you lose one species, it affects the ecosystem and everything around it gets a little bit more fragile while it adapts to change,” said Kelsey Wooddell , assistant director of the Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability. “Even if it’s not a keystone species [a species that others in an ecosystem depend on], its loss will weaken the functionality of the entire ecosystem, which just makes it easier for that ecosystem to stop working.”

What are the consequences of extinction?

Altering ecosystems through cascading effects

If a species has a unique function in its ecosystem, its loss can prompt cascading effects through the food chain (a “trophic cascade”), impacting other species and the ecosystem itself.

An often-cited example is the impact of the wolves in Yellowstone Park, which were hunted to near extinction by 1930. Without them, the elk and deer they had preyed upon thrived, and their grazing decimated streamside willows and aspens, which had provided habitat for songbirds. This left the stream banks susceptible to erosion, and a decline in songbirds allowed mosquitoes and other insects the birds would have eaten to multiply. When the wolves were reintroduced to the park in 1995, they once again preyed on the elk; plant life returned to the stream banks and along with it, birds, beavers, fish and other animals. (Note: David Bernhardt, acting secretary of the Department of the Interior, just announced a proposal to strip gray wolves of their endangered status in the Lower 48 states.)

Kelp forests are another classic example. They play an important role in coastal ecosystems because they provide habitat for other species, protect the coastline from storm surges and absorb carbon dioxide.

Yet kelp forests are rapidly getting mowed down by exploding numbers of purple sea urchin. California sea otters eat the purple sea urchins that feed on giant kelp. These otters used to number in the hundreds of thousands to millions, but their population has been reduced to about 3,000 as a result of unchecked hunting in the 19th century and pollution. Moreover, in 2013 the sunflower starfish, which also eats purple sea urchins, began dying because of a virus that was likely exacerbated by warmer waters. Without the sea otter and the sunflower starfish predators, the purple sea urchin began feasting on the kelp forests, which declined 93 percent between 2013 and 2018. (A new study   found that kelp forests are now also threatened by ocean heat waves.) The explosion of sea urchins not only damaged the kelp ecosystem, it also had serious impacts on Northern California’s red urchins that are valued for sushi. Fish that need the kelp forests for spawning, such as sculpin, rock cod and red snapper may become vulnerable in the future as well.

As another example, Wooddell explained that on Guam, after the invasive brown tree snake was accidentally introduced to the island in the 1950s, 10 of the island’s 12 endemic bird species went extinct. “Typically birds eat seeds and spread seeds elsewhere on the island but that is no longer a functioning ecosystem,” she said. “So the forest and the trees have decreased a lot. And Guam is covered in spiders because the birds are not there to eat them.”

Losing apex species has multiple effects

Eliminating the large predators at the top of the food chain, the “apex species,” may be humans’ most serious impact on nature, according to one study . These large species are more vulnerable because they live longer, reproduce more slowly, have small populations, and need more food and a greater habitat area. Scientists say their loss has played a role in pandemics, fires, the decline of valued species and the rise of invasive ones, the reduction of ecosystem services, and decreased carbon sequestration.

Elephants are an apex species that may go extinct in our lifetime, as a result of tourism, habitat loss and poaching for ivory. This could dramatically change ecosystems in Africa and Asia. Through consumption and digestion, elephants disperse more seeds farther than any other animals; this fosters the growth of plants and trees that birds, bats and other animals depend upon for food and shelter.

Elephants also dig water holes that all animals share, and they fertilize the soil with their rich dung, which provides food for other animals.

The loss of apex species can also affect wildfires. After rinderpest, an infectious virus, wiped out many plant-eating wildebeest and buffalo in East Africa in the late 1800s, plants flourished. During the dry season, this over-abundance of vegetation spurred an increase in wildfires. In the 1960s, after rinderpest was eliminated through vaccinations, the wildebeest and buffalo returned. The ecosystem went from shrubbery to grasslands again, decreasing the amount of combustible vegetation, and the wildfires decreased.

Jeopardizing pollination

Seventy-five percent of the world’s food crops are partially or completely pollinated by insects and other animals, and practically all flowering plants in the tropical rainforest are pollinated by animals. The loss of pollinators could result in a decrease in seed and fruit production, leading ultimately to the extinction of many important plants.

Flying foxes, also known as fruit bats, are the only pollinators of some rainforest plants. They have been over-hunted in tropical forests with several species going extinct. One study noted that 289 plant species, including eucalyptus and agave, rely on flying foxes to reproduce; in turn, these plants were responsible for producing 448 valuable products.

Bees pollinate over 250,000 species of plants, including most of the 87 crops that humans rely on for food, such as almonds, apples and cucumbers.

But in recent years, large populations of bees have been wiped out by the mysterious “colony collapse disorder” wherein adult honeybees disappear from their hive, likely in response to numerous stressors.

Over the last 20 years in the U.S., monarch butterflies, which pollinate many wildflowers, have decreased 90 percent. The rusty-patched bumble bee, another important pollinator and the first bee species to be put on the endangered list, now only occupies one percent of its former range.

Insect populations overall are declining due to climate change, habitat degradation, herbicides and pesticides. A 2014 review of insect studies found that most monitored species had decreased by about 45 percent. And a German study  found 75 percent fewer flying insects after just 27 years. As insect populations are reduced, the small animals, fish and birds that rely on them for food are being affected, and eventually the predators of fish and birds will feel the impacts as well. One entomologist who had studied insects in the rainforest in the 1970s returned in 2010 to find an up to 60-fold reduction. His study reported “a bottom-up trophic cascade and consequent collapse of the forest food web.”

Endangering the food chain

Plankton, tiny plant and animal organisms that live in the ocean or fresh water, make up the foundation of the marine food chain. Phytoplankton are critical to the health of oceans and the planet because they consume carbon dioxide and produce oxygen during photosynthesis.

In 2010, researchers found that phytoplankton had decreased 40 percent globally since 1950, and attributed the decline to rising sea surface temperatures. The scientists speculated that the warming surface waters did not mix well with the cooler, deeper waters rich in nutrients that phytoplankton need. In addition, zooplankton are very sensitive to slight changes in the amount of oxygen in the ocean, and may be unable to adapt as areas of low oxygen expand due to climate change.

The quantity and quality of plankton also affects the nutrition of other creatures further up the food chain. In the Mediterranean Sea, the biomass of sardines and anchovies declined by one-third in just ten years. One scientist speculated that this is because the sardines’ and anchovies’ normal plankton had disappeared, so they had to resort to eating a less nutritious species of plankton with fewer calories. Changes in plankton quality could be a result of water temperature, pollution or lack of nutrients, but scientists are not exactly sure why the plankton makeup in some places is changing. If it is due to global warming and pollution, some say the situation could worsen.

However, Sonya Dyhrman, a professor in Columbia University’s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences who studies phytoplankton with the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, is more sanguine about the future. “Microbes like phytoplankton can adapt, can acclimate, and can evolve, so I worry less about lineages of phytoplankton going extinct and more about how phytoplankton community composition will change in the future ocean,” said Dyhrman.

A different community composition of phytoplankton could change the food web structure, but Dyhrman is not really worried about the total collapse of fisheries. She is concerned, however, that “there could be changes in ocean ecosystems and we don’t really know what those changes will be. What will the architecture of that ecosystem look like in the future? The problem is, the ocean is already changing and we don’t understand the architecture of the ecosystem right now well enough to predict what will happen in the future.“

Losing nature’s therapeutic riches

More than a quarter of prescription medications contain chemicals that were discovered through plants or animals. Penicillin was derived from a fungus. Scientists are studying the venom of some tarantulas to see if one of its compounds could help cure diseases such as Parkinson’s. One molecule from a rare marine bacterium could be the basis of a new way to treat to melanoma.

Scientists have so far identified about 1.7 million different types of organisms, but between 10 and 50 million species are thought to exist on Earth.

Who knows what substances or capabilities some of these species might possess that could help treat diseases and make human lives easier?

Destroying livelihoods

According to a study for the U.N., the continued loss of species could cost the world 18 percent of global economic output by 2050.

Already, a number of industries have been economically impacted by species loss. The collapse of bee populations has hurt many in the $50 billion-a-year global honey industry. Atlantic cod in the waters off of Newfoundland formed the basis of the local economy since the 15 th century — until overfishing the cod destroyed the livelihoods of local fishermen.

What you can do about extinction

Extinction is hard to see. We may not realize how much of the natural world has been lost because the “baseline” shifts with every generation. Past generations would regard what we see as natural today as terribly damaged, and what we see as damaged today, our children will view as natural.

Wooddell believes the most important thing one can do is to put pressure on Congress and elected leaders to create land management, pollution and other sustainable policies that will protect biodiversity and the environment. However, because it’s unlikely that these kinds of top-down policies will be instituted in the current political climate, she recommends mobilizing grassroots community groups to create “bottom-up” policies.

Here are some other things you can do to protect endangered species and prevent extinction:

• Eat less meat. Soybean production is one of the main causes of deforestation, and most soybean meal is used for animal feed.
• Buy organic food because organic farmers use only non-synthetic or natural pesticides on their crops. Synthetic pesticides may be toxic for other organisms.
• Choose sustainable seafood. The Marine Stewardship Council provides a list of certified sustainable fish for responsible eating.
• Compost food waste . In New York City, the compost is used for urban farming and gardening, which provide habitat for pollinators.
• Buy wood and paper products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council , to ensure they’re harvested from responsibly managed forests.

• Don’t buy products made from endangered or threatened species, such as tortoise shell, ivory, coral, some animal skins, and “traditional” medicines.
• Be aware of the source of palm oil used in countless food and cosmetic products. Many tropical forests are being razed for palm oil plantations. If a product contains palm oil, make sure it’s from a deforestation-free plantation .
• Reduce your use of plastic .
• If you have a garden, plant native shrubs and flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. Milkweed is particularly helpful for monarch butterflies.
• Set up a beehive.
• Diversify your diet. Eating these 50 foods will promote biodiversity and a healthier plant.
• Support and get involved with organizations that are helping endangered animals.
• Join the Center for Biological Diversity and use their Take-Action Toolboxes.

Correction: This post was updated on April 3, 2019 to remove a sentence about cownose rays devastating scallop populations off of North Carolina. It turns out that other studies have challenged those findings. 

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A new UN report ( https://www.nytimes.com/2019/05/06/climate/biodiversity-extinction-united-nations.html ) finds that one million species are at risk of extinction; this is threatening ecosystems around the world that human beings need to survive.

The Trump administration has put forth new rules that will significantly weaken the Endangered Species Act. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/12/climate/endangered-species-act-changes.html?module=inline

Wouldn’t there be an evolutionary development that occurs when one species is gone? What happened when something like the Dodo went extinct? Did other creatures in its ecosystems adapt to perform the Dodo’s services? When I think about extinction, I always wonder what would have happened if the dinosaurs had not become extinct.

I am late to the discussion about keystone species but since I have learned about the roles of these key animals to specific environments around the world I have tried and failed to see homo sapiens as a keystone species but rather I see us more like the ungulates, which when left unchecked by a corresponding predator, such as the wolf in the Yellow Stone Park scenario, would decimate any environment we occupy. We are overpopulating, over consuming, over producing items that are harmful to the entire world (such as plastics) and what will keep us in check? Who will be our wolves? Cancer? Illnesses? Violence? If humans disappeared from the earth, just suddenly vanished, I think the earth and all her flora and fauna would recover quickly. Our intelligence should curb our avarice, but I fear we are too shortsighted and too quick to rationalize away the science which spells out the looming disaster brought on my our ignorance and greed.

Dear Deborah, Your analysis is very disturbing; and unfortunately, true. Nice post, keep it up.

well said. I think this is spot on and with the human species looking to colonize Mars and the Moon…what more damage will we do?

Endangered species are important. In my opinion, their absence can cause a break in the food chain or break synergies with other species, and thus a negative impact on them. One species and can change so much. Like a domino effect. We should take care of every species.

I have been searching for a reasonable explanation of preservation of endangered species, and the search continues still. Apart from few redundant examples like bees or birds/animals taking part in pollinating processes or overgrowth/extinction, I can’t see any direct explanation on the outcomes of the extinctions of any species, viz. Tigers, Elephants, Rhinos, Deers etc. on the ecosystems or direct influence on humankind. Whereas, deforestation, excessive usage of fossil fuels, phytoplankton extinctions leading to global warming effects are easily understood, no such wide range of explanations and outcomes do exist on the extinction of species and their wide range of influences. Still looking for a reasonable explanation….

can effect the food chain and thus effect humans less tigers mean more prey and then they will take up resources and could become extinct and so on

I love animals!

same, i hope we can work together to stop some animals from going extinct.

Endangered Animals Matter Because If They Disappear, It Could Destroy Entire Ecosystems, STEA ( Save The Endangered Animals )

Yes, absolutely!

the thought of someone killing a poor turtle to make a stupid mirror just makes me want to cry! how could people be so cruel!?!?!?

That’s the sad world we live in.

I LOVE ANIMALS WE LOVE ANIMALS.HELP ANIMALS!

That is a wild amount of money that bees are responsible for pollinating crops.

I can’t believe that how many animals have gone extinct

I know right, it is so sad

I agree, without animals there would be no cures for horrible and possibly deadly diseases. Who knew that most of our endangered species helped with cures.

Why do they endanger species this makes me mad

We should save them, not hunt them. I hate the trump administration

I agree entirely.

I wish all animals would live without the fear of extinction.

I wish there was a way we could stop the cause of extinction and make a way to where more people would actually care.

How do i cite this?

how do i cite this

This is so wonderful. It has lots of info. I absolutely love this site!

This is such a great article with a great display of information!

yo i think we should get alot of people to explore the water and to save animals to pick up trash too.

bruh can they delete the trash out of the ocean using robots or elon musk can do somthing

At this point I don’t think anyone can take on a task that big

I don’t want any more animals to go extinct

Hi there! I just read the article on https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2019/03/26/endangered-species-matter and I found it informative. I appreciate how the author broke down complex ideas in a way that was easy to understand. It’s great to see content that is both engaging and educational. Thanks for sharing this resource!

Good resource, and lots of imformation

I went to Alley Springs and saw the scenery and now I run a business where I sell eco-friendly things and do manual labor to help trees. All the money is put to help forests and animals. -Evalyn Demery

Thats a good idea!

I think an easier way to clean out our ocean is to just volunteer and stop having robots or people that act like they do but don’t really care doing it

Great Article!!

HELP ANIMALS

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Human beings and endangered species

• IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
• The United States Endangered Species Act
• Species assessment and management

What organizations determine which organisms are endangered species?

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• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department - Threatened and Endangered Species
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• Table Of Contents

What is an endangered species?

An endangered species is any species that is at risk of extinction because of a rapid decrease in its population or a loss of its critical habitat.

What role does human activity play in causing species to become endangered?

Roughly 99 percent of threatened and endangered species are at risk because of human activities. The principal threats are habitat loss and degradation, the spread of invasive species, the growing influence of global warming, chemical pollution, unsustainable hunting, and disease.

Among the organizations connected with assessing which organisms are endangered species are the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), and the Red List of Threatened Species, created by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

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endangered species , any species that is at risk of extinction because of a sudden rapid decrease in its population or a loss of its critical habitat . Biodiverse regions that require protection on the grounds that they host a significant number of endangered species are called hot spots .

(Read E.O. Wilson’s Britannica essay on mass extinction.)

Previously, any species of plant or animal that was threatened with extinction could be called an endangered species. The need for separate definitions of “endangered” and “ threatened ” species resulted in the development of various categorization systems, each containing definitions and criteria by which a species can be classified according to its risk of extinction. As a rule, a range of criteria must be analyzed before a species can be placed in one category or another.

Often such categorization systems are linked directly to national legislation, such as the United States Endangered Species Act (ESA) or the Canadian Species at Risk Act (SARA). In addition, regional agreements, such as the European Union’s Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC), and international conservation agreements, such as the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), are connected to species- assessment systems. One of the most-recognized independent international systems of species assessment is the Red List of Threatened Species , created by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Roughly 99 percent of threatened species are at risk because of human activities alone. By the early 21st century it could be said that human beings ( Homo sapiens ) are the greatest threat to biodiversity and are the major drivers of biodiversity loss . The principal threats to species in the wild are:

• Habitat loss and habitat degradation
• The spread of introduced species (that is, non-native species that negatively affect the ecosystems they become part of)
• The growing influence of global warming and chemical pollution
• Unsustainable hunting

Although some of these hazards occur naturally, most are caused by human beings and their economic and cultural activities. The most pervasive of these threats is habitat loss and degradation—that is, the large-scale conversion of land in previously undisturbed areas driven by the growing demand for commercial agriculture , logging , and infrastructure development. Because the rates of loss are highest in some of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth , a perpetual battle is waged to manage destructive activities there while limiting the impact that such restrictions may have on the well-being of local communities . The relative importance of each threat differs within and among taxa . So far, incidental mortality from ecological disturbance , temporary or limited human disturbance, and persecution have caused limited reductions in the total number of species; however, these phenomena can be serious for some susceptible groups. In addition, global warming has emerged as a widespread threat, and much research is being conducted to identify its potential effects on specific species, populations , and ecosystems .

Conflicts between human activities and conservation are at the root of many of these phenomena. Such controversies are often highly politicized and widely publicized in the global press and through social media . For example, habitat loss and species loss have resulted from the unregulated exploitation of coltan (the rare ore for tantalum used in consumer electronics products such as mobile phones and computers ) in Kahuzi-Beiga National Park , one of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s premier forest parks. The park is also home to much of the population of the threatened Eastern Lowland gorilla ( Gorilla beringei graueri ). Mining has increased gorilla mortality by reducing the animal’s food resources and leading many people displaced by the mining to kill gorillas for their meat . In addition, the mountain gorilla ( G. beringei beringei ), a close relative of the Eastern Lowland gorilla, is also at risk of extinction . However, authorities cite poaching , disease, and crossfire between warring political groups in the vicinity of Virunga National Park as the primary sources of its population decline.

Another example of a widely publicized wildlife controversy involves the relatively recent declines in amphibian populations. Known to be important global indicators of environmental health , amphibians have experienced some of the most serious population declines to date of all groups that have been assessed globally through the IUCN Red List process ( see below ). Amphibians (a group that includes salamanders , frogs , toads , and caecilians [wormlike amphibians]), being particularly sensitive to environmental changes, are severely threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, the spread of a disease called amphibian chytridiomycosis , and climate change .

Beyond these notable examples, many of the world’s birds are also at risk. The populations of some bird species (such as some albatrosses , petrels , and penguins ) are declining because of longline fishing, whereas those of others (such as certain cranes , rails , parrots , pheasants , and pigeons ) have become victims of habitat destruction. On many Pacific islands , the accidental introduction of the brown tree snake ( Boiga irregularis ) has wreaked havoc on many bird populations .

Many fishes and other forms of aquatic and marine life are also threatened. Among them are long-lived species that have life history strategies requiring many years to reach sexual maturity. As a result, they are particularly susceptible to exploitation. The meat and fins of many sharks , rays , chimaeras , and whales fetch high prices in many parts of the world, which has resulted in the unsustainable harvest of several of those species.

Moreover, freshwater habitats worldwide are progressively threatened by pollution from industry, agriculture, and human settlements. Additional threats to freshwater ecosystems include introduced invasive species (such as the sea lamprey [ Petromyzon marinus ] in the Great Lakes ), the canalization of rivers (such as in the streams that empty into the Everglades in Florida), and the overharvesting of freshwater species (as in the case of the extinct Yunnan box turtle [ Cuora yunnanensis ] in China). While an estimated 45,000 described species rely on freshwater habitats, it is important to note that humans are also seriously affected by the degradation of freshwater species and ecosystems.

Against this backdrop of threats related to urban expansion and food production, the unsustainable harvest of animal and plant products for traditional medicine and the pet trade is a growing concern in many parts of the world. These activities have implications for local ecosystems and habitats by exacerbating population declines through overharvesting. In addition, they have cross-border repercussions in terms of trade and illegal trafficking.

Reasons Animals Become Endangered

Jennifer Bove is an award-winning writer and editor with a background in field biology.

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• Endangered Species

When an animal species is considered endangered, it means that the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has evaluated it as nearly extinct, which means that a significant portion of its range has already died off and the rate of birth is lower than the species' death rate.

Today, more and more animal and plant species are on the verge of extinction because of a variety of major factors that cause a species to become endangered, and as you might expect, humans play a role in quite a few of them. In fact, the biggest threat to endangered animals is human encroachment on their habitats.

Fortunately, conservation efforts around the world are bent on helping these endangered animals revitalize their dwindling populations through a variety of humanitarian efforts, including curtailing illegal poaching, halting pollution, and habitat destruction, and curtailing the introduction of exotic species into new habitats.

Habitat Destruction

Every living organism needs a place to live, but a habitat is not just a residence, it is also where an animal finds food, raises its young and allows the next generation to take over. Unfortunately, humans destroy animal habitats in a number of different ways: building houses, clearing forests to get lumber and plant crops, draining rivers to bring water to those crops, and paving over meadows to make streets and parking lots.

Habitat destruction is the number one reason for animal endangerment, which is why conservation groups work diligently to reverse the effects of human developments. Many non-profit groups like the Nature Conservancy  clean up coastlines and establish nature preserves to prevent further harm to native environments and species around the world.

In addition to physical encroachment, human development of animals' habitats pollutes the natural landscape with petroleum products, pesticides, and other chemicals, which destroy food sources and viable shelters for the creatures and plants of that area.

As a result, some species die outright while others are pushed into areas where they can't find food and shelter. Worse yet, when one animal population suffers it affects many other species in its food web so more than one species' population is likely to decline.

Introduction of Exotic Species

An exotic species is an animal, plant, or insect that is introduced into a place where it did not evolve naturally. Exotic species often have a predatory or competitive advantage over native species, which have been a part of a particular biological environment for centuries, because even though native species are well adapted to their surroundings, they may not be able to deal with species that closely compete with them for food. Basically, native species haven't developed natural defenses for an exotic species and vice versa.

One example of endangerment due to both competition and predation is the Galápagos tortoise. Non-native goats were introduced to the Galápagos Islands during the 20th century. These goats fed on the tortoises' food supply, causing the number of tortoises to decline rapidly. Because the tortoises could not defend themselves or stop the overpopulation of goats on the island, they were forced to abandon their native feeding grounds.

Many countries have passed laws banning specific exotic species known to endanger native habitats from entering the country. Exotic species are sometimes referred to as invasive species, especially in cases of banning them. For instance, the United Kingdom has placed raccoons, mongooses, and cabbages on their invasive species list, all of which are barred from entering the country.

Illegal Hunting and Fishing

When hunters ignore rules that regulate the number of animals that should be hunted (a practice known as poaching), they can reduce populations to the point that species become endangered. Unfortunately, poachers are often hard to catch because they are deliberately trying to evade authorities, and they operate in areas where enforcement is weak.

Furthermore, poachers have developed sophisticated techniques for smuggling animals. Baby bears, leopards, and monkeys have been sedated and stuffed into suitcases for transport. Live animals have been sold to people who want exotic pets or medical research subjects. And, animal pelts and other body parts are also secretly smuggled across borders and sold through black market networks of buyers who pay high prices for illegal animal products.

Even legal hunting, fishing, and gathering of wild species can lead to population reductions that cause species to become endangered. A lack of restriction on the whaling industry in the 20th century is one example. It wasn't until several whale species were nearing  extinction  that countries agreed to abide by an international moratorium. Some whale species have rebounded thanks to this moratorium but others remain at risk. 

International laws forbid these practices, and there are a number of government and nongovernment organizations (NGOs) whose sole purpose is to stop illegal poaching, especially of animals like elephants and rhinoceroses. Thanks to the efforts of groups like the International Anti-Poaching Foundation  and local conservation groups like the PAMS Foundation in Tanzania, these endangered species have human advocates fighting to protect them from outright extinction.

Natural Causes

Of course, species endangerment and extinction can happen without human interference. Extinction is a natural part of evolution. Fossil records show that long before people came along, factors such as overpopulation, competition, sudden climatic change, and catastrophic events like volcanic eruptions and earthquakes drove the decline of numerous species.

Determining Which Species Are at Risk

There are a few warning signs that a species could become extinct . If a species has some economic importance, such as the Atlantic salmon, it may be at risk. Surprisingly, large predators, who we might expect to have an advantage over other species, are often at risk as well. This list includes grizzly bears, bald eagles , and gray wolves .

A species whose gestational period is lengthy, or who have small numbers of offspring at each birth has the potential to become endangered more readily. The mountain gorilla and California condor are two examples. And species with weak genetic makeup, like manatees or giant pandas , have more risk of extinction with each generation.

" Losing Their Homes Because of the Growing Needs of Humans ." World Wildlife Foundation.

Marris, Emma. " Goodbye Galapagos Goats ." Nature , 2009, doi:10.1038/news.2009.61

" Adoption of the First List of Invasive Alien Species of Union Concern ." European Commission . Published July 13, 2016.

" Whales ." World Wildlife Fund .

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• Essay Editor

Endangered Species Essay

1. introduction.

The introduction to the impact of endangered species on ecosystems and conservation efforts is crucial in setting the stage for the subsequent discussion. This section will provide a comprehensive overview of the background and importance of endangered species, emphasizing the significant role they play in maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems. By delving into the causes and implications of species endangerment, this section aims to underscore the pressing need for conservation efforts to safeguard biodiversity and ecological stability. The discussion will begin by examining the factors contributing to the decline of various species, including habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and over-exploitation. It will then highlight the far-reaching consequences of species extinction on ecosystem functioning, emphasizing the intricate web of interdependence that characterizes natural communities. Through a systematic analysis of these issues, the introduction will underscore the critical importance of preserving endangered species and the inherent value they hold for the well-being of our planet. By acknowledging the integral connection between species conservation and ecosystem health, this section will lay the foundation for a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the impact of endangered species and the conservation measures necessary to ensure their survival.

1.1. Background and Importance of Endangered Species

The background and importance of endangered species are central to understanding the impact of these species on ecosystems and the necessity of conservation efforts. Endangered species are those at risk of extinction, facing threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. Their decline can have far-reaching consequences for the balance of ecosystems, as they often play crucial roles in food chains and contribute to the overall biodiversity of their habitats. Furthermore, the loss of endangered species can result in a domino effect, affecting other species and ultimately impacting the health and stability of entire ecosystems. Recognizing the importance of endangered species, conservation efforts have been implemented to protect and restore their populations. Conservation initiatives aim to address the root causes of endangerment, including habitat destruction, pollution, poaching, and climate change. These efforts involve a combination of strategies, such as establishing protected areas, implementing laws and regulations, conducting research, and raising public awareness. By safeguarding endangered species, conservation not only preserves biodiversity and ecological balance but also ensures the sustainability of natural resources essential for human well-being. In summary, understanding the background and importance of endangered species is crucial for comprehending their impact on ecosystems and the urgency of conservation measures. As we delve further into this topic, we will explore specific examples of endangered species, their ecological significance, and the various conservation approaches aimed at mitigating their decline.

2. Ecosystem Functioning and Biodiversity

Ecosystem functioning and biodiversity are closely interconnected, with the presence of endangered species playing a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance within ecosystems. Endangered species often serve as keystone species, meaning that their disappearance can have a disproportionate impact on the entire ecosystem. For example, the decline of sea otters in the Pacific Northwest led to an explosion in sea urchin populations, which in turn caused extensive damage to kelp forests and the species that depend on them. This demonstrates how the loss of a single species can trigger a cascade of negative effects throughout the ecosystem. In addition to their role as keystone species, endangered species also contribute to ecosystem functioning through their interactions with other species and their role in nutrient cycling. The decline of certain pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, can significantly impact the reproductive success of plants, leading to a decrease in overall biodiversity within the ecosystem. Furthermore, the presence of endangered species can indicate the health of an ecosystem, as their decline often reflects larger environmental problems such as habitat loss or pollution. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species not only benefit the survival of these individual species but also contribute to the overall health and functioning of ecosystems. By preserving habitats and addressing the root causes of species decline, conservation efforts can help maintain biodiversity and ensure the stability of ecosystems for future generations. In conclusion, the role of endangered species in ecosystem functioning is a critical consideration in conservation efforts, as their presence has far-reaching effects on the health and sustainability of natural systems.

2.1. The Role of Endangered Species in Ecosystems

Endangered species play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and functionality of ecosystems. They contribute to the overall biodiversity of an ecosystem, and their presence is indicative of its health and stability. These species often hold unique ecological roles, such as being top predators, primary pollinators, or keystone species, which have a disproportionately large impact on the ecosystem compared to their abundance. Therefore, the loss of endangered species can disrupt the intricate web of interactions within an ecosystem, leading to cascading effects on other species and the environment as a whole. Furthermore, endangered species can serve as indicators of environmental changes and ecosystem health. Their decline or disappearance can signal underlying issues such as habitat destruction, pollution, or climate change, which can affect not only the species at risk but the entire ecosystem. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species can consequently benefit the wider ecosystem, as they often address the root causes of environmental degradation, promoting sustainable and healthier ecosystems. Ultimately, the conservation of endangered species is essential for preserving the functioning and resilience of ecosystems, as they contribute to the overall stability, productivity, and diversity of natural systems.

3. Threats to Endangered Species

Human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization are major contributors to habitat destruction, leading to the decline of endangered species. Deforestation results in the loss of essential habitats for countless species, while urbanization and industrialization lead to pollution and fragmentation of ecosystems. These activities disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems, directly impacting the survival of endangered species. Additionally, overhunting, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade pose significant threats to endangered species. The demand for exotic pets, traditional medicine, and wildlife products drives the illegal exploitation of endangered species, pushing them closer to extinction. Climate change is another critical threat, altering natural habitats and disrupting the life cycles of many species, making it increasingly difficult for them to survive. To address these threats, conservation efforts are crucial. This includes the establishment of protected areas, enforcing laws against poaching and habitat destruction, and raising awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity. Collaborative efforts between governments, NGOs, and local communities are essential to mitigate the threats and protect the endangered species and their ecosystems. Only through comprehensive action can we hope to safeguard the diversity of life on Earth and ensure the stability of our ecosystems for future generations.

3.1. Human Activities and Habitat Destruction

Human activities, such as deforestation, urban expansion, and industrial development, are major contributors to habitat destruction, which poses a significant threat to endangered species. Deforestation, driven by the demand for timber, agriculture, and urbanization, results in the loss of crucial habitats for many species. Urban expansion and industrial development lead to the fragmentation of natural habitats and the disruption of ecological processes. These activities not only directly destroy habitats but also alter ecosystems, making it difficult for endangered species to survive and reproduce. The destruction of habitats due to human activities has led to a significant decline in the populations of many endangered species. This loss of biodiversity has far-reaching ecological impacts, affecting the balance of ecosystems and the services they provide. Conservation efforts aimed at addressing habitat destruction involve the restoration and protection of critical habitats, as well as the implementation of sustainable land use practices. By mitigating human-induced habitat destruction, it is possible to support the recovery of endangered species and safeguard the health and resilience of ecosystems. Ultimately, understanding the impact of human activities on habitat destruction is crucial for the effective conservation of endangered species and the ecosystems they inhabit.

4. Conservation Strategies

Conservation strategies play a crucial role in preserving endangered species and their ecosystems. One of the most common approaches is the establishment of protected areas and wildlife reserves. These areas are designated for the specific purpose of safeguarding the habitats of endangered species and enabling their populations to recover. Protected areas and wildlife reserves are essential for enhancing biodiversity, as they provide a safe haven for various plants and animals that are threatened by human activities such as habitat destruction and poaching. Furthermore, these areas also contribute to maintaining the balance of ecosystems and supporting the overall health of the environment. In addition to providing a refuge for endangered species, protected areas and wildlife reserves also offer opportunities for scientific research, environmental education, and ecotourism. By allowing scientists to study endangered species in their natural habitats, these areas facilitate the development of effective conservation strategies and the monitoring of population trends. Moreover, they serve as outdoor classrooms for educating the public about the importance of biodiversity and the need for conservation efforts. Furthermore, ecotourism in protected areas and wildlife reserves can generate economic benefits for local communities, thereby creating incentives for the preservation of natural habitats and the wildlife that inhabits them. Overall, conservation strategies centered around protected areas and wildlife reserves are instrumental in the ongoing efforts to protect endangered species and sustain healthy ecosystems.

4.1. Protected Areas and Wildlife Reserves

Protected areas and wildlife reserves play a crucial role in the conservation of endangered species and the preservation of ecosystems. These designated areas provide a safe haven for threatened species to thrive and maintain their populations. By establishing protected areas and wildlife reserves, conservation efforts can ensure that the habitat and resources necessary for the survival of endangered species are safeguarded. These areas also help to mitigate the impacts of human activities such as deforestation, poaching, and habitat destruction. Protected areas and wildlife reserves are managed with the primary goal of preserving biodiversity and maintaining the balance of ecosystems. They are carefully monitored and regulated to minimize human disturbances and promote the natural processes that support the survival of endangered species. In addition to serving as a refuge for wildlife, these areas also provide opportunities for research, education, and public awareness, contributing to a greater understanding of the value of biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts. Overall, the establishment and effective management of protected areas and wildlife reserves are vital components of conservation strategies aimed at safeguarding endangered species and their ecosystems. These areas play a critical role in protecting and restoring the natural environment, ultimately benefiting both wildlife and human communities.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the impact of endangered species on ecosystems is an issue of critical importance to conservation efforts. Through the analysis of various case studies and scientific research, it is evident that the loss of biodiversity has far-reaching consequences for the stability and functioning of ecosystems. Endangered species play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of natural systems, and their decline can lead to detrimental effects on other species and the overall ecosystem health. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting these species are essential for preserving biodiversity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of ecosystems. Furthermore, it is essential to recognize the interconnectedness of all living organisms within an ecosystem and the cascading effects that the loss of one species can have on the entire system. As such, conservation strategies need to take a holistic approach that considers the complex interactions between different species and their habitats. Additionally, the involvement of local communities, governments, and international organizations is crucial for the success of conservation initiatives, as the protection of endangered species requires coordinated and collaborative efforts at various levels. Ultimately, the preservation of endangered species is not only a moral imperative but also essential for the well-being of human societies. By safeguarding biodiversity and ensuring the health of ecosystems, conservation efforts can help mitigate the impacts of climate change, prevent the spread of infectious diseases, and secure vital resources for future generations. It is therefore imperative that we continue to prioritize the protection of endangered species and work towards creating a sustainable and harmonious coexistence between humans and the natural world.

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1. Introduction The general perception regarding climate change is that it is mainly induced by man, particularly due to the increase in the release of greenhouse gases from activities such as industrialization and increasing use of fossil fuels. The impact of these activities has been recognized and has been receiving increasing attention in recent years, leading to a number of international protocols where countries are encouraged and required to control and/or reduce the levels of these gase ...

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1. Introduction The natural environment is the foundation upon which other human societal functions are built. Indeed, the human race is dependent upon the earth's biotic life support system for food, clean air, freshwater, fertile soil, and protection from the harmful effects of ultraviolet solar radiation. Human society is also reliant upon diverse ecosystems for essential ecosystem goods and services which are the sine qua non for the general welfare of human societies, and which transmit th ...

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1. Introduction Modern societies depend on an infrastructure that delivers electricity to support economic, health, and social development. This chapter argues that new innovations in information and communication technology (ICT) power systems offer the opportunity to introduce systematic change leading to modern, sustainable power systems within 20-30 years. Some global challenges such as the manipulation of our climate system and the pressures on biodiversity loss can be ascribed to the glob ...

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1. Introduction Biological urbanism conceives the city as a large form, a bio-habitat that, like a natural substrate, is the support of an abundant life. The structure that underlies forms a base that can be called 'the floor'. The present work uses the concept 'terraces' of the Enric Granados Plan as a personification of lifeless floors, achieved through flat and abstract rationalism. The research establishes an analogy between the environmental impact of 'The Plan' and that of 'El Plano' with ...

The Impact of Human Activities on the Environment and Ways to Promote Sustainability

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The Environmental Impact of Deforestation and the Importance of Preserving Tree Species in Maintaining Biodiversity and Ecological Balance

1. Introduction Deforestation, the removal of forested areas, is a major problem in many regions of the world where it not only serves to remove the sinks for the carbon dioxide we humans generate in great quantities, but also is the method for shifting the array of plant and animal species that make up these montane and lowland rainforest systems. It was in one such system, the lowland rainforest situated along the Amazon river of Brazil, that I encountered both the environmental problem of de ...

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10 Reasons Why Species Become Endangered

The United States Endangered Species Act sums up the problem succinctly: The Congress finds and declares that (1) various species of fish, wildlife, and plants in the United States have been rendered extinct as a consequence of economic growth and development untempered by adequate concern and conservation [and] (2) other species of fish, wildlife, and plants have been so depleted in numbers that they are in danger of or threatened with extinction.

What is endangered species?

Basically, “endangered” means that a species is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. 

Internationally, the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is the most well-recognized catalog of threatened species. The list and ranking are prepared by the International Union for Conservation of Nature based on very specific criteria. Although the criteria is specific, the information it seeks is not usually as definable as finding and counting species is a problematic venture for many reasons.

Generally speaking, the criteria for “endangered status” are:

• a very significant reduction in population size of a large percentage over recent years
• a continuing decline
• a severely shrinking geographic range

Experts estimate that the extinction rate of animal species today is between 1,000 and 10,000 times higher than the natural extinction rate , that is what the extinction rate would be without human encroachment and activity [1] .

It is without doubt that human impact on animal extinction is significant.

What will lead to a species becoming endangered?

When there are very few animals left within a range where they can safely mate with other animals and raise offspring, and there is no habitat containing a large number of those same animals, their species is in danger of extinction.

What causes animals to become endangered?

Causes of species endangerment are many, but conservation biologists recognize that multiple forces drawn along with human activity reinforce one another to cause a species to diminish. 

The general consensus is that it is the P for people that is the primary cause of the dramatic declines in species worldwide. The bottom line is that we have too many people consuming too much of the land and sea and the earth’s resources.

#1 Overhunting or overharvesting

This has been the fate of most large animals, slow animals and tasty animals when humans have migrated to a previously uninhabited area. 

History abounds with stories of animals going extinct because of hunting and the consequent deaths of their predators if not by direct hunting as well, then by starvation because they no longer have a food source.

And a long history of wildlife depletion it is… There are many historical accounts about how humans have over hunted and over harvested species, leading to their endangerment, and often, extinction. One extinct species, the Passenger Pigeon, is a classic example of how humans over hunted a species, leading to the extinction of the entire species.

It is the cause of some high profile near extinctions today, like elephants for their ivory tusks and rhinos for their horn. The horn is sold at exorbitant prices as cures from everything from hangovers to cancer.

The black rhino population was at 65,000 in 1970, but then an odd phenomenon occurred. The rise of oil prices due to the OPEC oil embargo made a lot of theretofore impoverished Yemenis very wealthy. 

Ceremonial daggers are bestowed upon young Yemeni males as a rite of passage and the most prized ones were made of black rhino horn, wildly driving the price up and the population of black rhinos down. 

By 1997, when Yemen at last became a party to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), only 2,400 black rhinos remained, leaving the species on the brink of extinction [5] . 

The most poached animals in the world today are the small, shy pangolins. 100,000 are poached each year for their meat, considered a delicacy on Vietnam and China and their scales, believed to have healing powers [7] .

Plant species can also be overharvested, leading to their endangerment. For example, the Goldenseal plant is a very popular medicinal plant in the United States that has now become threatened due to overharvesting in the wild.

#2 Habitat loss

This is one of the biggest reasons for the steep decline of species, both in the animal world and the plant world. Many species in our world today are becoming endangered due to a loss of their primary habitat.  

Deforestation , agricultural spread, water extraction, mining and human migration have either destroyed the only habitats the species can survive in or driven the species to a severely fragmented habitat, generally meaning simply a slower demise of the species .

#3 Highly specialized species

Rarity has its own problems. Highly specialized species that have very specific habitat requirements do not fare well when faced with a changing environment, such as a changing climate or a habitat loss.

A small or very local population only has problems due to lack of suitable mates, and inbreeding presents another set of problems. The higher the level of inbreeding the double the dose of defective genes are passed on, generally leading to sterility and early death.

Too, a small population is especially vulnerable to the vagaries of Mother Nature. A single strong storm, flood, wildfire or drought can be a death knell to a species.

While some species have become well adapted to human presence (e.g. the Norway Rat), some species are so specialized that changes in their environment may threaten their very survival.

#4 Pollution

The Declining Amphibian Phenomenon is one of the more obvious measures of the declining state of our biosphere due to pollution. 

Although biologists have been unable to isolate a single cause for the recent rapid decline in numbers and extinctions of many species, it appears that much of it is due to pollution.

For example, the Peregrine Falcon almost became extinct in Canada when DDT was widely used prior to becoming banned in the U.S. and Canada in 1971. 

In the Sierra Nevada, cell damage due to excessive ultraviolet-B radiation, too strong with the thinning of the ozone layer.

#5 New species introduction and competition

Invasive species are a major cause of loss of diversity of both plants and animals. When a new species arrives with no natural predators to keep it in check, it can take over . 

A familiar example is the brown tree snake inadvertently arriving in Guam on a cargo ship following WWII. The venomous brown snake has decimated on virtually all of the local bird, fruit bat and lizard populations [8] .

Trout and bullfrogs introduced into streams are blamed for some of the amphibian dieoff.

And one other example happened in the Great Lakes region of the United States, where the Zebra Mussel was accidentally introduced. Many of the native mussel species in the Great Lakes have now become threatened or endangered due to the presence of the highly competitive Zebra Mussel.

#6 Human-wildlife conflict

“If it moves, kill it.”

Is pretty much the mentality in rural America. And yet in a surprising twist, Los Angeles, a city and its suburbs home to 19 million people is an enclave where mountain lions live side-by-side with humans [9] .

Mountain lions have been roaming the city for at least 30 years and The National Park Service has been studying them since 2002, curious how mountain lions survive in an increasingly fragmented and urbanized landscape [10] .

A recent citing prompted this response from a 65-year old resident. “I was stunned and amazed at the beauty. I didn’t feel scared, it didn’t seem like it was aggressive,” said Moore, who was returning from checking on her neighbor’s small Yorkie while she was out of town. “We just had a kind of staring contest and I didn’t want to take off and have it chase me or something.”

On the other hand, as our populations increase and more people move into areas where wildlife previously lived in abundance, new human-wildlife conflicts arise. Sadly, in many cases, wildlife is killed when they cause too big harm to farmers by hunting livestock or destroying crops.

For wildlife populations that have already been reduced due to loss of habitat and other issues, such conflicts can increase the chances that a species will become threatened or endangered.

Diseases kill humans and animals alike. The Ebola virus killed 5,000 critically endangered western gorillas between 2002 and 2003 at the Lossi Sanctuary and other hundreds of gorillas in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park in 2003-2004 [12] .

A deadly fungus decimated 30 species of amphibians in Panama in the early 2000s

A deadly fungus from Europe, where it is harmless to bats has spread to North America killing 6 million bats and taking many species to the brink of extinction. The northern long-eared bat is believed to have declined by 99 percent due to the “white nose syndrome [13] .”

It was a fungus that destroyed the American chestnut tree, one hundred-foot hardwoods that once numbered in the billions in eastern forests of the United States, and a significant food source for a variety of wildlife, but which were virtually eliminated by a fungal pathogen accidentally imported into the United States from Asia [14] .

Because the American Chestnut tree had evolved in conditions without the presence of the fungus, it lacked the natural resistance to survive.

Currently, there is ongoing research with the aim of creating a hybrid chestnut variety that is a cross between the American Chestnut and a variety of Chinese chestnut that is resistant to the chestnut fungus.

#8 Low birth rate

It is believed that reproduction rates are a natural way of maintaining a population equilibrium. Some species do not reproduce very often, and they may have few offspring each time when they breed. Other species may take a number of years to become sexually mature, thus reducing their opportunity to breed over their lifetime.

Generally, larger mammals have longer lifetimes and lower birth rates and smaller animals like rodents who do not live as long produce many litters in succession [15] .

Consequently, when large mammals suffer man-induced mortality, it takes longer for their populations to recover. A good example are marine mammals whose populations were diminished by commercial exploration.

#9 High genetic vulnerability

If a population has low genetic variation, it cannot evolve on the face of changing environmental variables and will face an increased risk of extinction. 

For example, if a population does not have a gene that is resistant to a certain disease, that disease may wipe out the entire population in one fell stroke [17] .

Some species, such as the Cheetah, maintain low genetic diversity, which makes them less able to adapt when faced with challenges such as overhunting or habitat loss. This low genetic diversity also makes them more vulnerable to diseases and expressions of negative genetic mutations.

Koalas are known to have low genetic variation [18] . This may be why they are showing high vulnerability to Chlamydia and the koala retrofit virus. Their vulnerability may also make it more difficult for koalas to adapt to global warming and human encroachment of their habitats.

#10 A particular species is rare to begin with

Some species can be found only in certain areas. If there are only a limited number of individuals of a species that are in existence to begin with, and the environment changes, there is a lower probability that such a species will survive in the future.

Rare species can easily become extinct in the face of hunting. The Sumatran Tiger is an example of a rare species that was over hunted to the point of extinction, as there were a very limited number of individuals to begin with.

There are only 1,000 ili pika, a tiny mammal living in a remote mountain range in China. Rising temperatures have forced them to the mountain tops. It is believed that the air pollution of the Xinjiang region has contributed to their decline. Removal from their habitat, vulnerability to pollution, and vulnerability to predators as they are too quiet by nature to warn each other makes their survival as a species unlikely [19] .

What efforts are being taken to protect endangered wildlife?

Internationally, 199 countries have signed an accord to create Biodiversity Action Plans to address the conservation of threatened species and habitats [20] .

CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival [21] .

Many worthwhile organizations also exist to protect endangered species [22] .

Efforts are made to find and rescue animals on the brink of extinction, bring them back to health, allow them to breed and raise their young in safe places, create a sustainable habitat and protect the habitat from encroachment, helping the endangered animals along until they reach numbers that give them a fighting chance of survival as a species.

You can help to save species from going extinct too.

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Greentumble was founded in the summer of 2015 by us, Sara and Ovi . We are a couple of environmentalists who seek inspiration for life in simple values based on our love for nature. Our goal is to inspire people to change their attitudes and behaviors toward a more sustainable life. Read more about us .

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The Effects of Endangered Species in 2024

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Endangered species live all around you. You likely have endangered plants or animals right in your backyard. All around you, you see images of those larger endangered animals, like tigers, rhinos and elephants, but do you see the greater effects of endangered species on the planet?

Perhaps you feel bad for them, but that is the extent of how much you think about the effects of endangered species. However, if they disappear, your life may change drastically. As more and more species are put on the endangered list, their risk of extinction rises, and the whole world can change. 

There are around 150,388 worldwide species on the IUCN Red List, with an estimated 42,108 species at risk of extinction. The consequences of human actions that have primarily led species to the point of near extinction affect you in more ways than you know.

How Endangered Species Become Endangered

What is an endangered species, anyway? An endangered species is considered any animal or plant in danger of disappearing entirely from this planet. There are varying endangerment levels, but if an animal or plant is on the endangered list, there should be efforts to protect them. 

Various circumstances can cause a species to be endangered , such as:

• Habitat Loss: This is one of the primary causes of endangerment. Whether humans clear out a forest or a natural disaster strikes, habitat loss significantly impacts species . Plants and animals rely on their habitat for survival, so any damage or loss can kill them.
• Human Exploitation: Unfortunately, humans often use rare animals or plants for exploitation to make money. Examples of this are ivory from elephants and horns from rhinoceroses. 
• Natural Competition: It’s typical for plants and animals to compete with one another, whether for food, water or habitat. If one species dominates another, the weaker species may become endangered.
• Displacement: This is similar to habitat loss. If a natural disaster strikes or human activity is causing a disturbance within a habitat, species may try to move to a new location. Often, the species may not be able to adapt to the change well enough to survive.
• Disease: Disease affects plants and animals just like it does humans. Think about COVID-19 — it has unfortunately affected a large portion of the human population. The same happens when disease strikes a plant or animal species.
• Invasive Species: Invasive species are those that are not native to an ecosystem. When introduced, invasive species take over the habitat and can cause survival challenges for the native species.

There are other contributing factors to a species becoming endangered, but these are some of the most common. Everything from overharvesting to pollution could exacerbate any of these causes.

What Happens When Biodiversity Decreases

Biodiversity is quite literally the web of life. It connects everything together. As animal and plant species are added to the endangered list, biodiversity decreases, which puts human health and livelihood at risk, as well as the environment and the economy. Every facet of life overlaps.

Effects on the Environment

Ecosystems are carefully balanced, with a hierarchy of prey and predators that keep populations in check. As species go extinct, they are taken out of the food chain. Animals that ate the newly-extinct species have to find new food sources or starve. 

This can damage the populations of other plants or animals. Furthermore, if a predator goes extinct, its prey’s population can proliferate, unbalancing local ecosystems. 

An extinction event has a ripple effect on other populations. It might catalyze another species to go extinct because other species adapted to their presence.

Once thought to be extinct, the black-footed ferret is an essential predator in America’s badlands. Since 2022, there are about 197 ferrets at Conata Basin in South Dakota— 70% of its population — which is down from 5 million in the early 1900s. The species primarily feeds on prairie dogs, whose own population decline nearly led to the ferret’s demise.

Another consideration is environmental health. If pollinators go extinct, plant health falls. For instance, the Hawaiian honeycreeper maintains biological and cultural significance, yet is one of the most rapidly-declining finch species of our time. There used to be 50 honeycreeper species across Hawaii — today, only 17 types remain with less than 200 individuals. Honeycreepers are responsible for seed dispersal for healthier forests, pollination and creating balance in avian predator-prey relationships.

Effects on Humans

It’s unavoidable that humans share an ecosystem with endangered species. That means that when a population of a species is diminishing, human life will alter. For example, when the American Bison began to vanish, humans who relied on them for food or fur for warmth or trading suffered and had to rely on other sources of food and income.

Also, some animals act as a buffer for diseases. If one of these species were to be endangered, then the human would be more at risk for the disease. Other plants and animals are food sources for humans, so without them, food scarcity increases.

Without the necessary resources for survival, we’re compromising the survival of human life by contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and loss of biodiversity worldwide.

Many may not consider plant extinction when animal welfare is more widely publicized. However, decreased plant populations and pollination could ruin crop yields and opportunities to use plants for medicine. It could prevent the world’s next monumental discovery in finding a cure to an ailing disease.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, plant-derived ingredients make up 40% of today’s medicines. One endangered plant species, in particular — Camptotheca acuminata or “tree of joy” from China — is an essential ingredient in modern cancer treatments for malignant tumors.

It will also jeopardize those who work in industries that rely on biodiversity. Consider beekeepers or fisheries. When pollution or overfishing deplete these paycheck-providing populations, it could put livelihoods in danger.

Effects on the Economy

When the workers of a nation cannot execute their jobs, that reflects in local and national economic well-being.

The economy is reliant on certain species as well — an example of this is the endangered honey bee. Bee populations have dwindled in recent years, with a reduction of over 60% in the U.S. since 1947. 

Bees pollinate many plant species, including multiple plants that compose much of an average human diet. Bee pollination is highly valuable to the U.S. Agricultural Department, bringing billions of dollars every year to the economy. In fact, the 2022-2023 growing season was the second deadliest for U.S. honey bees at 48% , which pollinate over 100 crop varieties.

Nations with elephants rely on them to bring countless dollars in eco-conscious tourism. Visitors want to see and learn about these ancient creatures up close, and encouraging their destruction through poaching removes that revenue.

Endangered Species Act

Fortunately, in 1973, the United States passed the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to protect those species on the brink of extinction. It covers both domestic and international endangered species.

The ESA aims to conserve and protect both endangered species and their habitats. It does this by creating standards for corporations. Corporations are required to avoid funding efforts that would put animals in danger or engage in actions that hurt species and their homes. It also stops the necessary commodification and transport of species on the lists.

States are provided with financial assistance and incentives to create and maintain conservation initiatives, like programs and other learning opportunities.

In 2023, the ESA celebrated its 50-year anniversary. The Department of the Interior shared these major wins that were a direct cause of the ESA’s institution, including:

• Saving the bald eagle from illegal shooting and contaminated food
• Restoring American alligators from its 1950s low
• Removed the Peregrine falcon from the Endangered Species List in 1999

Effects of Endangered Species Show They’re Essential

Without the conservation of endangered species, the world would be at risk for severe damage and trouble. The more species that go extinct, the lower the world’s biodiversity. Endangered species cover all living things — animals and plants. Efforts encompass numerous activities from minimizing waste to volunteering at your local conservation nonprofit or museum. By being educated about the endangered species in your region and supporting conservation efforts, you’re helping the planet.

Original Publish Date 03/29/2021 — Updated 02/20/2024

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Environmental Studies: Saving Endangered Species Essay

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There is no secret that in the present-day world, hundreds of species vanish from the face of the Earth completely due to the changes in their habitat. The latter, being spawned by the environmental changes inflicted by people’s activities, requires thorough research. One of the major concerns of the XXI century, the shrinkage of the Atlantic Forest, will inevitably trigger the disappearance of an even greater number of species populations.

To make the matters worse, some of the endangered species in question are nowhere else to be found except for the Atlantic Forest, which means that these animals and plants will be lost for good for the humankind (Mongillo & Zierdt-Warsaw, 2000). With the help of modern technologies, such as Google Earth, one can detect the source of the problem and, therefore, provide an efficient solution to it.

The procedure for acquiring the necessary data is relatively easy. By using the Google Earth Plug-in (Google Planet), one starts the program on the PC, either going to the 3-D model or remaining in the Google Earth view. Below is the image of Rio de Janeiro:

When reconsidering the evidence obtained via Google Earth, one must admit that the given method of acquiring information also has its flaws, the most basic one being the inability to locate the effects that the civilization has on nature. Google Earth shows the total area of the Atlantic Forest in a very graphic way:

The second picture shows that the deforested areas in Rio de Janeiro are increasing rapidly. For instance, the area used for growing coffee crops has shrunken considerably, which can be observed in the picture above. When speaking about deforested tropical areas, one must also mention the coast of Rio and its industrial regions:

In addition, it is relatively easy to spot the line drawn between the natural habitat and the environment created by people:

However, the effect of the latter on the Atlantic Forest is practically unnoticeable in Google Earth. One might argue, however, that by comparing the evidence obtained before the current evidence, one can spot the tendency in Atlantic Forest shrinkage.

According to the existing evidence, creating an artificial environment that will resemble the one in the Atlantic Forest is practically impossible. Due to the specifics of the local climate, as well as the environment, which every single element of a tropical rainforest, starting with a mosquito to the huge, centennial trees, contributes considerably to.

Therefore, the most reasonable solution to the given problem is not to create an artificial environment, but to restore and sustain the Atlantic Forest, making sure that each of its elements is in its place and that people have no effect on its fragile ecosystem.

One of the most efficient solutions for saving the Atlantic Forest species from dying out is to follow the principles of sustainability. Despite the considerable distance between the location and civilization of the rainforests, it is necessary to admit that people’s intrusion into the rainforest ecosystem occurs daily. One of the major problems concerning the relationship between people and nature in this regard is the process of cutting rainforests down.

On the one hand, the process of cutting trees down is inevitable – people need to use natural resources to create the environment in which they can live, i.e., build houses, create furniture and household appliances, not to mention people’s need in paper as one of the integral parts of people’s everyday life.

On the other hand, with the current technological advances, several rainforests could be saved if people used not only wood, but also other materials for furniture, paper, and other life essentials (Palo & Vanhanen, 2000). As the snapshots above show, the areas that used to be the realm of tropical rainforests have been replaced by blocks of flats, numerous hotels, and other buildings. While technological progress must be appreciated, it should not come at the cost of rainforests and the unique nature of the Atlantic Forest.

Considering the areas in question closer, one must admit that the number of rainforests in Rio is dropping quickly. It seems that the city makes almost 80% of the land, which used to be the place where rainforests grew.

Also, if comparing some of the images in the center of the city and some of its remote corners, one will inevitably find out that the amount of rainforests is narrowing down by at least 2% per year. The given phenomenon can be explained by the rapid process of urbanization and the tendency to occupy the entire area of the city with economically valuable objects, ie, offices, hotels, and houses for rent (Gay, 2001).

Therefore, it can be assumed that the endangered species can still be saved. By analyzing the situation with the help of the Google Earth software, one can make sure that the animals and plants inhabiting tropical rainforests will be safe. Also, it is worth keeping in mind that the tropical rainforests also need people’s care and protection from the impact of civilization. That being said, it can be assumed that the tropical life, though being under threat, still can be saved.

Reference List

Gay, K. (2001). Rainforests of the world: A reference book . Santa-Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO.

Mongillo, J. F. & Zierdt-Warsaw, L. (2000). Encyclopedia of environmental science . Phoenix, AZ: The Oryx Press.

Palo, M. & Vanhanen, H. (2000). World forests: From deforestation to transition? Norwell, MA: Kluwer Academic Publishers.

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The Plight of Endangered Species: Understanding Causes and Taking Action

Habitat destruction: a rapid threat to biodiversity.

The Menace of Exotic Species: Unintended Consequences of Human Intervention

Overexploitation: the unethical trade in animal parts, conclusion: a call to action.

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Protecting Endangered Species

This essay will discuss the importance of protecting endangered species. It will cover the reasons species become endangered, including habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. The piece will examine conservation efforts and strategies to protect biodiversity, such as habitat restoration, legal protections, and wildlife conservation programs. It will also discuss the broader ecological implications of species extinction and the role of international cooperation in conservation. PapersOwl showcases more free essays that are examples of Agriculture.

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At the beginning of 2018, researches have calculated 801 different types of animals that have gone completely extinct of which 65 of them are extinct in the wild. Researches have calculated about 3,879 different types of animals that are critically endangered. People say protecting endangered animals is a waste of money, time, and has no benefits for us but here is why we should protect endangered species. Protecting endangered species would help raise environmental awareness to protect and bring order. Being able to bring environmental awareness, could help protect the ecosystem and help restore the number of species that have been endangered over time.

Species being extinct can affect our ecosystem because of the duties each of them may have. For example, there can be a plant that can bring more oxygen than others, a fish that protects underwater organisms for medicine or even for food. The number of species being extinct up to date has increased tremendously. While species are being extinct, we could be missing out on the significance of medicine and cures that are yet to be discovered. If one plant species gets extinct, the possible aids such as medicine will be lost. While many plants may be approaching extinction without our knowledge, these plants could contain a huge number of important compounds that can extend the human lifespan or the cure for deadly diseases. Even though plants are not the only source of medicine, there are multiple animals that are medically used like a scorpion venom is used by researchers for a brain tumor or a viper’s venom to control blood pressure.  In today’s society, some medical practices use fish scales on burned victims to help cure faster and not acquire any infections during the healing process. Agriculture also plays an important role in the protection of species. Farmers are often seen as the original environmentalists because many of them set aside parts of their land as a wildlife habitat for endangered fish and reptiles.

Many species, like bees, contain important inherited material that is needed to maintain crops. With the genes that scientists gathered from the DNAs of plants, they are pest or disease resistance, salt tolerance, and drought-resistant. These relations can be used to guarantee new crops will develop in the future. The opposing argument as to why endangered species should not be protected is it will take more money to save them than to just move on and species endangerment is a part of life. Protecting species should not be about the amount of money being wasted but should come from having the knowledge of what each species role is and how it impacts our everyday life. As for being part of our life and it just being a life cycle, the majority of the endangered species are used for agriculture, ecosystem, and medical purpose that can help save a life. A plan that that would help protect the endangerment of species is to create strict laws and security. Many countries have laws but a lot of them have been broken because they lack enforcement. Researches have calculated about 3,879 different types of animal’s that are critically endangered while people say protecting endangered animals is a waste of money, time, and have no benefits for us. Protecting these species is beneficial to us for medical purposes, agriculture, which majority of our food comes from farms that are needing support from species and evolving the world.

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Saving Endangered Species: A Case Study Using Global Amphibian Declines

How are Endangered Species Identified?

The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List uses a hierarchical structure of nine categories for assigning threat levels for each species or subspecies. These categories range from 'Extinct' to 'Least Concern' (Figure 1). At the highest levels of threat, taxa are listed as 'Critically Endangered,' 'Endangered,' or 'Vulnerable,' all of which are given 'Threatened' status. A series of quantitative criteria is measured for inclusion in these categories, including: reduction in population size, geographic range size and occupancy of area, total population size, and probability of extinction. The evaluation of these criteria includes analyses regarding the number of mature individuals, generation time, and population fragmentation. Each taxon is appraised using all criteria. However, since not all criteria are appropriate for assessing all taxa, satisfying any one criterion qualifies listing at that designated threat level.

There are a variety of human activities that contribute to species becoming threatened, including habitat destruction, fragmentation, and degradation, pollution, introduction of non-native species, disease, climate change, and over-exploitation. In many cases, multiple causes act in concert to threaten populations. Though the causes underlying population declines are numerous, some traits serve as predictors of whether species are likely to be more vulnerable to the causes listed. For example, many species that have become endangered exhibit large body size, specialized diet and/or habitat requirements, small population size, low reproductive output, limited geographic distribution, and great economic value (McKinney 1997).

How to Save Endangered Species

There are a variety of methods currently being implemented to save endangered species. The most common are creation of protected areas, captive breeding and reintroduction, conservation legislation, and increased public awareness.

Protected areas

An effective and internationally recognized strategy for conserving species and ecosystems is to designate protected areas. The United Nations Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Center (UNEP-WCMC) defines a protected area as "an area of land and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection of biological diversity and of natural and associated cultural resources, managed through legal or other effective means." Worldwide, extensive systems of protected areas have been developed and include national parks, state/provincial parks, wildlife refuges, and nature reserves, all of which differ in their management objectives and degree of protection. The IUCN has defined six protected area management categories, based on primary management objective (Table 1). These categories are defined in detail in the Guidelines for Protected Areas Management Categories published by IUCN in 1994.

protected area managed mainly for science
Area of land and/or sea possessing some outstanding or representative ecosystems, geological or physiological features and/or species, available primarily for scientific research and/or environmental monitoring.
protected area managed mainly for wilderness protection
Large area of unmodified or slightly modified land, and/or sea, retaining its natural character and influence, without permanent or significant habitation, which is protected and managed so as to preserve its natural condition.
protected area managed mainly for ecosystem protection and recreation
Natural area of land and/or sea, designated to (a) protect the ecological integrity of one or more ecosystems for present and future generations, (b) exclude exploitation or occupation inimical to the purposes of designation of the area and (c) provide a foundation for spiritual, scientific, educational, recreational and visitor opportunities, all of which must be environmentally and culturally compatible.
protected area managed mainly for conservation of specific natural features
Area containing one or more specific natural or natural/cultural feature which is of outstanding or unique value because of its inherent rarity, representative or aesthetic qualities or cultural significance.
protected area managed mainly for conservation through management intervention
Area of land and/or sea subject to active intervention for management purposes so as to ensure the maintenance of habitats and/or to meet the requirements of specific species.
protected area managed mainly for landscape/seascape conservation and recreation
Area of land, with coast and sea as appropriate, where the interaction of people and nature over time has produced an area of distinct character with significant aesthetic, ecological and/or cultural value, and often with high biological diversity. Safeguarding the integrity of this traditional interaction is vital to the protection, maintenance and evolution of such an area.
protected area managed mainly for the sustainable use of natural ecosystems
Area containing predominantly unmodified natural systems, managed to ensure long term protection and maintenance of biological diversity, while providing at the same time a sustainable flow of natural products and services to meet community needs.

The World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA) records all nationally designated terrestrial and marine protected areas whose extent is known. These data are collected from national and regional governing bodies and non-governmental organizations. Currently, there are over 120,000 protected areas (2008 estimate, UNEP-WCMC), covering about 21 million square kilometers of land and sea. Since 1872, there has been a dramatic increase in the global number and extent of nationally designated protected areas (Figure 2). Well-planned and -managed protected areas not only benefit species at risk, but other species associated with them, thereby increasing the overall amount of biodiversity conserved. Despite increases in the size and number of protected areas, however, the overall area constitutes a small percentage of the earth's surface. Because these areas are critical to the conservation of biodiversity, the designation of more areas for protection and increases in the sizes of those areas already in existence are necessary.

Another opportunity for creating protected areas is the Alliance for Zero Extinction (AZE), an international consortium of conservation organizations that specifically targets protection of key sites that represent sanctuaries of one or more Endangered or Critically Endangered species. The AZE focuses on species whose habitats have been degraded or whose ranges are exceptionally small, making them susceptible to outside threats. Three criteria must be met in order to prioritize a site for protection (Table 2). To date, 588 sites encompassing 920 threatened species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, conifers and corals have been identified. The goal of such efforts is to prevent the most imminent species extinctions by increasing global awareness of these key areas.

Endangerment An AZE site must contain at least one Endangered or Critically Endangered species, as listed on the IUCN Red List. Irreplaceability An AZE site should only be designated if it is the sole area where and Endangered or Critically Endangered species occurs, contains the overwhelmingly significant known resident population (>95%) of the Endangered or Critically Endangered species, or contains the overwhelmingly significant known population (>95%) for one life history segment (e.g. breeding or wintering) of the Endangered or Critically Endangered species. Discreteness The area must have a definable boundary within the character of habitats, biological communities, and/or management issues have more in common with each other than they do with those in adjacent areas.

Captive breeding and reintroduction

Some species in danger of extinction in the wild are brought into captivity to either safeguard against imminent extinction or to increase population numbers. The primary goals of captive breeding programs are to establish populations via controlled breeding that are: a) large enough to be demographically stable; and b) genetically healthy (Ebenhard 1995). These objectives ensure that populations will exhibit a healthy age structure, resistance to disease, consistent reproduction, and preservation of the gene pool to minimize and/or avoid problems associated with inbreeding. Successful captive breeding programs include those for the Guam rail, scimitar-horned oryx, and Przewalski's horse. (See iucnredlist.org for details.)

Establishing captive populations is an important contribution of zoos and aquariums to the conservation of endangered species. Zoos and aquariums have limited space, however, so to maintain healthy populations, they cooperate in managing their collections as breeding populations from international to regional levels. The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the organization that unites the world's zoos and aquariums in cooperative breeding programs. Perhaps the most important tools in managing these programs are studbooks, which ensure that captive populations maintain a sufficient size, demographic stability, and ample genetic diversity. All information pertinent to management of the species in question is included (e.g., animal registration number, birth date, parentage, behavioral traits that may affect breeding). These studbooks are used to make recommendations regarding which individuals should be bred, how often, and with whom in order to minimize inbreeding and, thus, enhance the demographic and genetic security of the captive population.

Another goal of some captive breeding programs is to reintroduce animals to the wild to reestablish populations. Examples of successful introductions using captive-bred stock include California condors (Ralls & Ballou 2004) and black-footed ferrets (Russell et al. 1994). Reintroductions can also utilize individuals from healthy wild populations, meaning individuals that are thriving in one part of the range are introduced to an area where the species was extirpated. Reintroduction programs involve the release of individuals back into portions of their historic range, where they are monitored and either roam freely (e.g., gray wolves released in Yellowstone National Park) or are contained within an enclosed area (e.g., elk in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in western Kentucky; Figure 3). However, reintroduction is only feasible if survival can be assured. Biologists must ascertain whether: a) the original threats persist and/or can be mitigated; and b) sufficient habitat remains, or else survival will be low upon release.

Laws and regulations

Biodiversity is protected by laws at state/provincial, national, and international levels. Arguably the most influential law is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) which is an agreement between governments (i.e., countries) that controls international trade in wild animals, plants, and their parts to ensure continued survival. International trade in wildlife is a multi-billion dollar industry that affects millions of plants and animals. As a result, CITES lists species in three Appendices according to the level of protection they require to avoid over-exploitation; species listed in Appendix I require the most protection and, thus, trade limitations (Table 3). Currently, approximately 30,000 species are protected under CITES (Table 4).

Appendix Level of Protection Trade Appendix I Species threatened with extinction Permitted only in exceptional circumstances Appendix II Species might be threatened with extinction but not required Trade is controlled to ensure survival Appendix III Species are protected in at least one country Trade is controlled after a member country has indicated that assistance is needed in this capacity   Appendix I Appendix II Appendix III Mammals 297 spp. + 23 sspp. 492 spp. + 5 sspp. 44 spp. + 10 sspp. Birds 156 spp + 11 sspp. 1275 spp. + 2 sspp. 24 spp. Reptiles 76 spp. + 5 sspp. 582 spp. 56 spp. Amphibians 17 spp. 113 spp. 1 sp. Fish 15 spp. 81 spp. - Invertebrates 64 spp. + 5 sspp. 2142 spp. + 1 sspp. 22 spp. + 3 sspp. Plants 301 spp. + 4 sspp. 29105 spp. 119 spp. + 1 sspp.

The trade in wildlife is an international issue and, as such, cooperation between countries is required to regulate trade under CITES. However, member countries adhere to regulations voluntarily and, consequently, they must implement them. Most important, CITES does not take the place of national laws; member countries must also have their own domestic legislation in place to execute the Convention.

Public awareness

In general, the public is unaware about the current extinction crisis. Public awareness can be increased through education and citizen science programs. Conservation education often begins in elementary school and may be enhanced through summer camps or family vacations that are nature oriented (e.g., involve visiting national or state parks). Early positive experiences with nature are essential for children to gain an appreciation for wildlife and the problems species face. In high school, this education is continued through formal science education and extra-curricular activities. Other means of increasing public awareness involve internet websites where subscribers can receive emails from conservation organizations like Defenders of Wildlife, Environmental Defense, and World Wildlife Fund. In many cases, these organizations provide updates on the status of endangered species and promote letter writing to elected officials in requesting protection for endangered species and their habitats.

CASE STUDY IN CONSERVATION: Global declines in amphibian populations

Amphibians are one of the earth's most imperiled vertebrate groups, with approximately one-third of all species facing extinction (Stuart et al . 2004). Causes of amphibian population declines and extinctions echo those listed in the introductory paragraphs but primarily consist of drainage and development of wetland habitats and surrounding uplands, contamination of aquatic habitats, predation by or hybridization with introduced species, climate change, and over-harvesting (Collins & Storfer 2003). In addition, the recent declines observed in relatively pristine areas, such as state, provincial, and national parks worldwide have brought to light the tremendous impact of pathogens on amphibian populations, most notably that of the amphibian-killing fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). So what is being done to preserve amphibian diversity?

To address the historic sources of amphibian population declines, such as overexploitation and habitat loss, national and international legislation exists to monitor the trade in amphibians and prevent further reductions in available habitat. Although international trade in amphibians is less common relative to trade in other vertebrate groups, CITES currently lists 131 species in Appendices I-III. Furthermore, IUCN currently lists 509, 767, and 657 amphibian species as Critically Endangered, Endangered, or Vulnerable (Figure 4), respectively. These species' native habitats are afforded protection at various levels of organization. The AZE has identified 588 sites worldwide exhibiting at least one criterion for protection (Table 2), and these sites are home to hundreds of amphibian species listed by IUCN as between Vulnerable and Critically Endangered. In addition, IUCN's Amphibian Specialist Group (ASG) has partnered with governmental and non-governmental organizations and individuals to create new protected areas and minimize further population declines due to habitat fragmentation and loss. In addition to designation of new protected areas, efforts of the ASG include habitat restoration, promotion of ecotourism, and extended amphibian-monitoring programs.

Despite efforts to preserve suitable habitat, biologists became increasingly aware of catastrophic population declines associated with Bd, and more urgent action became necessary when declines were detected in protected areas with minimal risks of habitat loss and overexploitation. Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is a parasitic fungus that disrupts the bodily processes of its amphibian hosts, resulting in lethargy and ultimately death. Although the exact origins of this pathogen are currently debated, Bd has been detected throughout the world and linked to dramatic amphibian population declines and extinctions (Skerratt et al . 2007).

Due to the rapidity with which Bd invades amphibian communities, swift conservation action was deemed necessary to prevent extinctions; consequently, many institutions realized the necessity of collecting wild individuals prior to the arrival of Bd with the hopes of establishing captive populations. The Amphibian Ark, for example, represents a joint effort between the ASG, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the IUCN/SSC Conservation Breeding Specialist Group. Members of these organizations worldwide participate in captive amphibian husbandry and breeding programs using wild-caught individuals (Figure 5-6). In concert with such activities, some facilities are also addressing the possibility of 'biobanking' activities, such as cryogenically preserving the sperm and eggs of imperiled species or maintaining living cell lines for future use. While some researchers are dedicated to maintaining captive populations, others are actively investigating potential treatments for Bd or preventative measures. Treatment methods are currently being investigated for amphibians already infected with Bd (Berger et al . 2010), and findings that certain bacteria confer Bd resistance have led some researchers to examine the viability of 'seeding' amphibians with protective bacterial coatings prior to reintroduction efforts (Becker and Harris 2010). Also, biologists are increasingly advocating for more rigorous chytrid monitoring protocols to prevent further spread of this pathogen, such as efforts in the United States to incorporate amphibians into the Lacey Act (1900), a federal mandate that would require them to be certified as disease-free prior to importation.

Throughout the current amphibian extinction crisis, increasing public awareness has been a critical component of conservation efforts. Amphibians typically do not receive the attention bestowed upon more charismatic megafauna, such as pandas and tigers, despite their significant economic, ecological, and aesthetic values. In a worldwide effort to bring amphibian population declines to the forefront, the Amphibian Ark declared 2008 as the "Year of the Frog," a time in which conservationists showcased amphibian diversity in zoos and aquaria while detailing their current plight. In addition, some conservation efforts, such as Project Golden Frog, utilize attractive or otherwise conspicuous amphibians as flagship species with which to garner public interest and local pride in endangered species and promote local activism (Figure 7). The ASG's 'Metamorphosis' initiative utilizes artistry to promote increase public recognition of connections between the plight of amphibians and that of humanity. Biologists have also solicited direct public involvement through citizen science programs wherein non-scientists can participate in crucial amphibian population monitoring efforts; examples of these efforts include ASG's Global Amphibian BioBlitz, Nature Canada, and Environment Canada's FrogWatch, the United States Geological Survey's North American Amphibian Monitoring Program, and the AZA's FrogWatch USA. Finally, continued research highlighting the critical ecological and economic roles amphibians play in ecosystems, such as transferring energy through food webs and reducing insect populations (Davic & Welsh 2004), has been important in cultivating popular interest in the current extinction crisis.

References and Recommended Reading

Berger, L., Speare R. et al . Treatment of chtridiomycosis requires urgent clinical trials. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 92 , 165-174 (2010).

Collins, J. P. & Storfer, A. Global amphibian declines: sorting the hypotheses. Diversity and Distributions 9 , 89-98 (2003).

Davic, R. D. & Welsh, H. H. On the ecological roles of salamanders. Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics 35 , 404-434 (2004).

Ebenhard, T. Conservation breeding as a tool for saving animal species from extinction. Trends in Ecology and Evolution 10 , 438-443 (1995).

McKinney, M. L. Extinction vulnerability and selectivity: combining ecological and paleontological views. Annual Review of Ecology and Evolution 28 , 495-516 (1997).

Ralls, K. & Ballou, J. D. Genetic status and management of California condors. Condor 106 , 215-228 (2004).

Russell, W. C., Thorne, E. T. et al. The genetic basis of black-footed ferret reintroduction. Conservation Biology 8 , 163-266 (1994).

Skerratt, L. F., Berger, L. et al . Spread of chytridiomycosis has caused the rapid global decline and extinction of frogs. Ecohealth 4 , 125-134 (2007).

Stuart, S. N., Chanson, J. S. et al. Status and trends of amphibian declines and extinctions worldwide. Science 306 , 1783-1786 (2004).

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Importance of the Endangered Species Act

The Endangered Species Act (ESA), passed in 1973, was enacted to halt the rapid loss of plant and animal life. Frequently referred to as the “crown jewel” of our nation’s environmental laws, the ESA has been responsible for saving many species formerly on the brink of extinction, including the bald eagle, gray wolf and California sea otter. The ESA is the only piece of environmental legislation to date that does not demand a cost-benefit analysis before going into action, making it uniquely effective. Once a species is declared threatened or endangered, the ESA ensures that it will be protected and all efforts will be made to assist in its recovery.

The Endangered Species Act is not just our strongest environmental law – it also articulates a noble vision. In it, for the first time in world history, the legislators of a great nation said that it would do everything in its power to prevent the extinction of any species within its border.

Why is it so important for us to protect species?

1.  ecological importance.

Healthy ecosystems depend on plant and animal species as their foundations. When a species becomes endangered, it is a sign that the ecosystem is slowly falling apart. Each species that is lost triggers the loss of other species within its ecosystem. Humans depend on healthy ecosystems to purify our environment. Without healthy forests, grasslands, rivers, oceans and other ecosystems, we will not have clean air, water, or land. If we allow our environment to become contaminated, we risk our own health.

2.  Medical

Over 50% of the 150 most prescribed medicines were originally derived from a plant or other natural product. Unfortunately, only about 5% of known plant species have been tested for medicinal uses and there are thousands of plant species that have yet to be identified. Tens of thousands of Americans die every year from illnesses for which there is no known cure. The cures for these diseases may eventually come from plants, therefore, we must protect all species before they are lost forever from nature’s medicine cabinet.

3.  Aesthetic/Recreational

The American tourism industry is dependent on plant and animal species and their ecosystems for their multi-billion dollar, job-intensive industry. Every year, millions of people visit natural areas in the US and participate in wildlife related activities. From woodland hikes to beach going, outdoor activities are the second most popular travel activity (Travel Industry Association of America). The U.S. Park Service logs over 200 million visitors to our National Parks every year. The local economies of these areas benefit greatly from activities associated with these visits. The preservation of our nation’s biological diversity is an immensely important facet to the survival of the travel industry.

4.  Agricultural

Agriculture also plays an important role in the protection of species, farmers are often seen as the original conservationists. Many farmers set aside portions of their land as wildlife habitat and also work in partnership with groups such as Trout Unlimited to restore river and stream habitats for endangered and threatened fish and reptiles. In addition, wild relatives of common crops contain important genetic material needed to maintain these crops. These relatives can be used to ensure crops are disease-resistant while providing information for developing new crops that can grow in less than adequate lands.

How can we ensure the Endangered Species Act’s noble vision is carried out to its fullest?

With a firm grasp of the importance of threatened and endangered species, we need to make sure that they are protected. The Endangered Species Act is our nation’s first line of defense against extinction. Unfortunately, species are slipping through cracks in the ESA. Citizens across the country remain vigilant in protecting the biodiversity and wildlife within their own communities. Through the monitoring of state and federal actions concerning threatened and endangered species, citizens act as a voice for the voiceless to guarantee that the well-being of these species are considered.

The ESA has also faced well-funded and well-organized attacks. With the help of committed groups and citizens, these attacks have been defeated. To ensure that we continue to have a strong and powerful Endangered Species Act, we need to make sure it is fully funded and reauthorized.

The Endangered Species Coalition has been working hard to ensure the ESA remains intact and fully funded. With your help, we are sure that all attacks to the ESA will be stopped. Through this tool kit, you will find ways that you can help and get more involved. The information we are providing is designed to guide you through the endangered species work and we will be available to assist you every step of the way.

Support grassroots organizing to defend endangered species. The Endangered Species Coalition works through grassroots organizing and mobilizing to keep wildlife and wild places protected.

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Join the Endangered Species Coalition Activist Network to receive emails with actions that you can take to protect endangered and threatened species.

About the Endangered SPECIES COALITION

The Endangered Species Coalition’s mission is to stop the human-caused extinction of our nation’s at-risk species, to protect and restore their habitats, and to guide these fragile populations along the road to recovery.

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Widespread occupancy of the endangered northern myotis on northeastern Atlantic Coastal Plain islands

Northern myotis Myotis septentrionalis are one of the bat species most affected by white-nose syndrome (WNS), and disease-induced declines may cause compounding effects when combined with other threats such as habitat loss and fragmentation. Recent evidence suggests that peripheral populations are persisting in post-WNS years; however, the environmental factors that influence the occurrence of this species along the Atlantic Coastal Plain are virtually unknown. We conducted a large-scale acoustic survey on 3 islands: Long Island, New York, and Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, Massachusetts, USA, and used a multi-scale occupancy modeling approach to determine the landscape and abiotic factors affecting the distribution of northern myotis. Our estimates of occupancy and detection probability suggest widespread presence across the islands. At the local (200 m) scale, we identified strong negative effects of development on Long Island and Nantucket and a strong positive effect of forest habitat on Martha’s Vineyard. None of the variables we measured sufficiently explained the landscape (1 km 2 ) occupancy of this species, which was very high (ψ = 0.81–0.97), representing an outlier for this species in the post-WNS landscape. The lack of association at the landscape scale suggests that general differences in land cover are not a driving factor of higher occupancy of peripheral northern myotis populations, while local site- specific conditions may be supporting critical foraging or roosting habitat. Because islands are particularly vulnerable to human-driven habitat alteration due to the constraint of limited space, and development pressure is expected to increase, this study provides a baseline to enable managers to assess the effects of future environmental disturbances and monitor population trends to support long-term survival of northern myotis.

Citation Information

Publication Year	2024
Title	Widespread occupancy of the endangered northern myotis on northeastern Atlantic Coastal Plain islands
DOI
Authors	Samantha Hoff, Brittany A. Mosher, Mandy Watson, Luanne Johnson, Elizabeth Olson, Danielle O’Dell, Casey J. Pendergast, Daniel A. Bogan, Carl J. Herzog, Wendy Christine Turner
Publication Type	Article
Publication Subtype	Journal Article
Series Title	Endangered Species Research
Index ID
Record Source
USGS Organization	Coop Res Unit Leetown

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Endangered Species — Endangered Species: the African Elephant

Endangered Species: The African Elephant

• Categories: Animals Elephant Endangered Species

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Published: Oct 2, 2020

Words: 1011 | Pages: 2 | 6 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, the threats to african elephants, conservation efforts and success stories, the urgency of global action.

• Efforts to combat illegal ivory trade must be intensified. This includes strengthening law enforcement, prosecuting poachers and traffickers, and dismantling ivory smuggling networks. The international community must also work collaboratively to reduce the demand for ivory through public awareness campaigns and stringent penalties for illegal possession.
• Habitat protection and restoration are essential. Governments and conservation organizations must work together to secure elephant habitats, establish corridors for their movement, and implement sustainable land-use practices that allow humans and elephants to coexist harmoniously.
• Climate change mitigation strategies are vital. Addressing the effects of climate change on elephant habitats and water sources is crucial to ensuring their long-term survival. This includes measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
• Wasser, S. K., & Poole, J. H. (2012). Elephants and Ivory: Lessons from the Trade Ban. Science, 335(6065), 1292-1293. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1217009
• Wittemyer, G., Daballen, D., Douglas-Hamilton, I., & Telfer, P. (2013). Legal Ivory Trade in a Corrupt World and Its Impact on African Elephant Populations. Conservation Biology, 27(4), 686-687. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2012.01947.x
• Thouless, C. R., Dublin, H. T., Blanc, J., & Skinner, D. P. (2016). African Elephant Status Report 2016: An Update from the African Elephant Database. Occasional Paper Series of the IUCN Species Survival Commission, 60, 13-26. https://www.iucn.org/sites/dev/files/import/downloads/ssc_op-060.pdf
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