Elutud

Elutud is a term derived from Estonian, meaning "extinct." It is primarily used in biological and paleontological contexts to denote a species or taxonomic group that no longer has any living representatives. The concept of extinction signifies the irreversible end of a lineage, often due to environmental changes, disease, predation, or competition.

When a species is declared elutud, it means that despite extensive searches and scientific study, no individuals of that species have been observed for a prolonged period, often defined by specific criteria depending on the group. This designation can be challenging, as definitively proving extinction requires considerable evidence. Sometimes, species thought to be elutud are later rediscovered, a phenomenon known as a Lazarus taxon.

The study of elutud organisms, or extinct species, is crucial for understanding the history of life on Earth, evolutionary processes, and the impact of past environmental shifts. Paleontology relies heavily on the fossil record to reconstruct these lost lineages. Conservation efforts often aim to prevent living species from becoming elutud by addressing threats to their survival.