Question

Write a short note on over-exploitation and co-extinction.

Hint:

Remember: Over-exploitation reduces resources; co-extinction happens when dependent species go extinct.

 

Answer 1

Over-exploitation: Over-exploitation refers to the excessive use or harvesting of natural resources, such as plants, animals, minerals, or water, at a rate faster than they can be naturally replenished. This unsustainable practice often arises due to human activities like overfishing, deforestation, hunting, and illegal wildlife trade. Over-exploitation disrupts ecosystems, depletes biodiversity, and threatens the survival of many species. For example, overfishing has led to the collapse of several fish populations, while excessive logging has resulted in the loss of forest habitats. The consequences of over-exploitation extend beyond individual species, affecting entire ecosystems and the services they provide, such as clean air, water, and soil fertility.
Co-extinction: Co-extinction occurs when the extinction of one species leads to the extinction of another species that is dependent on it. This phenomenon highlights the intricate interdependence among organisms within ecosystems. For instance, if a plant species goes extinct, the pollinators (such as bees or butterflies) that rely exclusively on that plant for food may also face extinction. Similarly, the extinction of a host species can lead to the disappearance of parasites or symbiotic organisms associated with it. Co-extinction underscores the cascading effects of biodiversity loss and emphasizes the importance of conserving not just individual species but entire ecological networks..