Question

How does co-extinction damage biodiversity? Describe with example.

Hint:

Co-extinction happens when dependent species are lost, like plant species relying on specific pollinators.

Answer 1

Co-extinction refers to the phenomenon where the extinction of one species leads to the extinction of another species that is dependent on it. This process highlights the intricate interdependence among organisms within ecosystems and demonstrates how biodiversity loss can cascade through ecological networks. Co-extinction damages biodiversity by disrupting these relationships, leading to declining ecosystem stability, functionality, and resilience. 

Examples of Co-Extinction
1. Pollinators and Plants
Scenario: Many plants rely on specific pollinators (e.g., bees, butterflies, or birds) for reproduction. If a pollinator species goes extinct due to habitat loss, pesticide use, or climate change, the plants that depend on it may also face extinction.
Example: The extinction of certain bee species could lead to the co-extinction of plant species that rely exclusively on those bees for pollination. For instance, the relationship between the Yucca plant and the Yucca moth is highly specialized. If the Yucca moth were to go extinct, the Yucca plant would lose its only pollinator and could also become extinct.