The Threat of Losing Endangered Species

Endangered Species

• An endangered species is a line of animals that are at risk of extinction. Today, the existence of endangered species is largely due to human activity that destroys animals' habitats. Hunting can also cause endangerment. However, species can become endangered or extinct through natural processes as well. For example, the megalodon -- a massive, distant relative to the great white shark -- went extinct 1.6 million years ago due to continental shifts, climate change and a sudden lack of food.

Current Situation

• The threat of losing endangered species is quite significant. According to the World Wildlife Fund, "Destructive human activities have led to the current rate of species extinction, which is at least 100--1,000 times higher than the expected natural rate." Some of these animals include elephants, orangutans, chimpanzees, giant pandas, tuna, whales and dolphins.

Threat to Biodiversity

• Every species, no matter how small, plays an important role to maintain the balance of its ecosystem. Animals can become endangered through direct targeting, such as excessive whale hunting or fishing. Endangerment can also happen due to a chain reaction. For example, if humans endanger fish species through over-fishing, animals that consume those fish have less food. As a result, they may target other species or begin to starve. Ecosystems must remain balanced, or endangered species may be lost to extinction.

Threat to Humans

• Aside from animal endangerment, humans can suffer as well. This is largely due to the creatures' ecosystems being reduced or destroyed. The WWF notes that these environments are critical for humans as well, since they provide resources like clean air and fresh water. In turn, this loss of resources can impact the economy. The WWF has thus taken measures to promote sustainable development. Sustainable development involves promoting industrial activity with minimal impact to the environment. Planting new trees after logging or restricting the amount of commercial fishing are both examples of sustainable development.