5 animals that have gone extinct.

Species extinction is a natural phenomenon that has been occurring for billions of years. However, in recent centuries, the extinction of animals has been accelerated by human actions.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), over 35,000 animal species are threatened with extinction. Unfortunately, many of them have already disappeared from the Earth.

In this article, we will explore 5 animals that have gone extinct, their causes, and their consequences for the environment.

1. Dodo

The dodo (Raphus cucullatus) was an endemic bird species of Mauritius Island in the Indian Ocean. It was a large-sized species, standing about 1 meter tall, with gray feathers and a large, robust beak.

The dodo went extinct in the 17th century, likely due to human hunting and the introduction of exotic species to the island.

The dodo played a significant role in the ecosystem of Mauritius Island. It acted as a seed disperser and helped maintain forest balance.

2. Tasmanian Tiger

The Tasmanian tiger (Thylacinus cynocephalus) was a carnivorous marsupial native to Australia and Tasmania. It was a large-sized species, about 1 meter in length, with a striped coat resembling that of a tiger.

The Tasmanian tiger went extinct in the 20th century, probably due to human hunting and competition with introduced animals like dogs and cats.

The Tasmanian tiger played an important role in the ecosystems of Australia and Tasmania as a top predator, helping control the populations of other animals.

3. Pinta Island Giant Tortoise

The Pinta Island giant tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra abingdoni) was a subspecies of Galápagos giant tortoise. It was the world’s largest tortoise, reaching up to 2 meters in length and weighing 400 kilograms.

The Pinta Island giant tortoise went extinct in the 20th century, likely due to human hunting and disease introduction.

The Pinta Island giant tortoise was a crucial species for the Galápagos Islands ecosystem. It acted as a seed disperser and maintained vegetation balance.

4. Spotted Grouper

The spotted grouper (Cephalopholis argus) was a perciform fish inhabiting coral reefs in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It was a medium-sized species, reaching up to 50 centimeters in length.

The spotted grouper went extinct in the 21st century, likely due to overfishing and coral reef degradation.

The spotted grouper was vital for coral reef ecosystems, acting as a predator of small fish and helping control pest populations.

5. Bramble Cay Melomys

The Bramble Cay melomys (Melomys rubicola) was an endemic rodent of Bruny Island in Australia. It was a small-sized species, about 10 centimeters in length.

The Bramble Cay melomys went extinct in the 21st century, probably due to habitat destruction and predator introduction.

The Bramble Cay melomys played an important role in Bruny Island’s ecosystem by acting as a seed disperser and maintaining vegetation balance.

Causes of Animal Extinction

The main causes of animal extinction are:

1. Overhunting and overfishing: Excessive hunting and fishing are major contributors to animal extinction. The pursuit of animals for sport, food, skins, or other products can lead to drastic population reductions.
2. Habitat destruction: Habitat destruction is another significant cause of animal extinction. The destruction of forests, savannas, oceans, and other natural habitats can result in habitat loss and population fragmentation.
3. Introduction of exotic species: The introduction of exotic species can also lead to animal extinction. Exotic species may compete with native species for resources such as food, water, and space.
4. Climate change: Climate change can also drive animal extinction. Changes in climate can alter natural habitats, rendering them unsuitable for the survival of certain species.

Consequences of Animal Extinction

Animal extinction has negative consequences for the environment, including:

1. Ecosystem disruptions: The extinction of a species can disrupt ecosystems, as that species may play a vital role in the food chain or pest control.
2. Economic losses: Animal extinction can lead to economic losses, as some species are crucial for tourism, fishing, and agriculture.
3. Biodiversity loss: Animal extinction results in a loss of biodiversity, which is essential for environmental health.

Importance of Animals for the Environment

Animals are integral to the environment. They play a fundamental role in ecosystems, controlling pests, pollinating plants, and dispersing seeds. Some animals are also significant for tourism, fishing, and agriculture, and their extinction can damage these economic sectors.

Conclusion

Animal extinction is a global issue that demands action. Measures must be taken to protect animals and prevent their extinction. Some of these measures include:

1. Reducing overhunting and overfishing: Laws and regulations should be established to control excessive hunting and fishing.
2. Protecting animal habitats: Preserving forests, savannas, oceans, and other natural habitats is crucial.
3. Managing the introduction of exotic species: Steps should be taken to prevent the introduction of exotic species into new environments.
4. Mitigating climate change: Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are essential to mitigate climate change effects.

By acting to safeguard animals, we can help maintain planetary biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future for all.