Endangered Species Although humans; like all other living creatures, have had to
ID: 286905 • Letter: E
Question
Endangered Species
Although humans; like all other living creatures, have had to make changes, adjustments, and adapt to survive and thrive, it is human-kind that has also had a profound impact on the lives of other creatures on Earth. Sometimes this has been a beneficial impact, but in many cases, it has been a disaster for other creatures.
Review the Discussion resources
http://extmedia.kaplan.edu/genEd/SC200/1605A/SC200_U6_Discussion_Resources.pdf
Endangered Species
Using the Internet, your textbook or the Library, conduct some research on your own on an endangered species (plant or animal) of your choice. Consider the biological, ethical, and economic aspects that have led not only to its endangerment, but also the role humans have taken in protecting the species. Then, during the week, be sure to address the following:
In a short paragraph (5–7 sentences) describe the species that you chose to learn more about and the basic reasons for its endangerment.
What characteristics make some species more vulnerable to extinction, while others seem to thrive despite changes in their surroundings?
How do the extinctions of other creatures affect humans directly and indirectly?
Why are decisions about recovery and preservation of these creatures so complicated?
What, if any, ethical responsibilities do humans have to other creatures on the planet?
What sorts of trade-offs would you be willing to make in order to help protect an endangered species? Would you make the same trade-offs for all types of species including plants, insects, amphibians, etc., in addition to those many people tend to be fonder of, like whales, tigers, and pandas?
Later in the week, compare your chosen organism to some described by your classmates. Do they share any common features? For example, are they endangered for the same reasons? Do they share similar habitats or behaviors?
Explanation / Answer
The Amur Leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) is critically endangered.
they are getting endangered due to
1) Hunting
2) Loss of forest habitat due to frequent fires
3) Negative impacts of inbreeding
4)Lack of political commitment to conservation
now a days humans have taken some of the steps like by creating a coalition of 13 international and Russian NGOs have pooled resources by creating ALTA (the Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance).
Also the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) is also a major contributor to help adopt a Amur leopard.
2)Extinction is caused by a change in environmental conditions. When situations change, some species possess adaptations that allow them to survive and reproduce but some do not. If the environment changes slowly enough the species will sometimes evolve the necessary adaptations . If conditions change quickly than a species can evolve, however, and if members of that species lack the traits for survive in the new environment, the result will be extinction.
3)Ecosystems change and with change extinctions occur as natural consequence. Ecosystem changes normally occur over long period of time – hundreds to thousands to tens of thousands of years. Human activities have undeniably and rapidly altered natural ecosystems to the point where animals and plants within habitats face daunting survival challenges . Extinction of some animals affects humans by eliminating a foodsource. It indirectly affects humans by changing the ecosystem. i.e. extinction of a top predator causes surplus of other animal populations and affect humans whether it be by spreading of disease, contamination of land or water sources.
4)The human race is increased. Some individuals who tries make a difference created the endangered species act to help preserve creatures from extinction. It was put into place but once it interfered with commercial value of an area it was dismissed. People will not see eye to eye on this and selfishly engage in lifestyles for them regardless of the effect on the creatures . Sometimes litigation can help and allow creatures a chance for survival. But not everyone follows the rules. I guess its hard to find a happy middle.
5)One of the responsibilities we have is to take care of the earth and ecosystems. We should put more emphasis on preservation , recycling, re-using, produce less waste, must find different renewable energy sources that are less harmful to the environment. We don’t have to inhabit every corner of the earth. We have to end poaching and over fishing, stop water pollution and have more respect for the earth and its creatures. If we cannot stop ruing the habitats and resources the creaturesof the earth need soon there will be none and we will cease to exist.
6)The trade-offs would have to be beneficial to the species and their environment. If consuming the species I would stop, I would conserve water, I would try to less enmy carbon foot print by walking, not purchase materials that were made from the destruction of these species habitats, I would support laws that protect and preserve these creatures even if it will hurt financial gain.
7) Yes they share some common features and are endangered for some same reasons.
Some of them share same habitats
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