Threats to Biodiversity

Abstract

The chapter on “Threats to Biodiversity” examines the detrimental impact of various factors on the delicate balance of life on Earth. Habitat destruction due to habitat fragmentation, introduction of exotic species, deforestation, urbanization, agriculture, and environmental pollution are identified as primary threats to biodiversity. Human activities have led to significant alterations and destruction of natural habitats, pushing many species toward extinction. The introduction of non-native species disrupts ecosystems, displacing or causing extinction of native species. Environmental pollution, including air, water, and soil pollution, further exacerbates the negative effects on ecosystems and species. Man-wildlife conflicts arise when human activities negatively impact wildlife populations or when wildlife poses threats to human lives or property. Species with small population sizes, specialist species, and endemic species are particularly vulnerable to extinction. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List categorizes species based on their conservation status, indicating the severity of the threat they face. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the historical significance of mass extinction events and the current Sixth Mass Extinction driven primarily by human activities. The escalating loss of biodiversity poses a substantial threat to global ecosystems and the planet’s long-term sustainability.