Question

Mention any two man-made causes for the loss of biodiversity.

Mention any two man-made factors that lead to the loss of biodiversity.

Answer 1

1. Loss of habitat or habitat alteration: A habitat is a place in which an organism lives. Habitats are an important component of an ecosystem. Loss of habitat is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity. Habitat loss is directly linked to human-induced pressures on land. Assemblages of species and their interactions with the ecosystems are critical for not only saving the species but also for their successful future evolution. In the event of alterations, either within species groups or within the environment, the entire ecosystem can begin to change. Alterations to ecosystems are a critical factor contributing to species and habitat loss. Habitat loss and degradation have affected 89% of all threatened birds, 83% of mammals, and 91% of all threatened plants assessed globally. The main causes of habitat loss are agricultural activities, mining, the development of human settlements, and industry.
2. Overharvesting: Overharvesting, i.e., overhunting, overfishing, or over-collecting a species, can quickly lead to its decline. Changing consumption patterns of humans are often cited as the key reason for the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources.
3. Introduction of alien species or invasive species: The introduction of exotic species that replace native and local species is cited as the second largest cause of biodiversity loss. Alien invasive species replace and often result in the extinction of the native species. The annual economic damage caused by invasive plant and animal species is very high.
4. Pollution: Biological systems respond slowly to changes in their surrounding environment. Pollution and contamination cause irreversible damage to the species.