Kihalásoktól

Kihalásoktól refers to extinctions, the complete disappearance of a species from Earth. This phenomenon has occurred throughout geological history, with mass extinctions being particularly catastrophic events where a significant percentage of biodiversity is lost in a relatively short period. The most famous mass extinction is the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, which wiped out the non-avian dinosaurs approximately 66 million years ago.

The causes of extinctions are varied and can include natural events like asteroid impacts, volcanic activity, and climate change. However, human activities are increasingly recognized as a major driver of current extinction rates. Habitat destruction, pollution, overexploitation of resources, and the introduction of invasive species are all contributing to what many scientists consider a sixth mass extinction.

The consequences of extinction are far-reaching. The loss of a species can disrupt ecosystems, affecting food webs and the services that nature provides to humans, such as clean air and water. Conservation efforts aim to prevent further extinctions by protecting endangered species and their habitats, as well as addressing the underlying causes of biodiversity loss. Understanding the history and causes of extinctions is crucial for appreciating the fragility of life on Earth and for guiding efforts to preserve it.