A new study has found that invasive species are playing a significant role in 60% of extinctions. The research, conducted by scientists from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), revealed the alarming extent of biodiversity loss.

The study focused on the classification of living beings and found that 73 genera had disappeared in the past 500 years, with most of them vanishing in the last two centuries. This rate is much higher than expected, as previous extinction rates suggested that only two genera should have disappeared in that time period.

Researchers attribute this accelerated extinction rate to human activities, such as habitat destruction, overfishing, and hunting. The loss of a single genus can have far-reaching consequences for the entire ecosystem. The destruction of natural habitats is a major factor in this alarming trend.

While experts agree that the current rate of extinction is concerning, there is debate on whether it constitutes a sixth mass extinction event or not. A mass extinction event is defined as the loss of 75% of species in a short period of time. While the current extinction rate is alarming, it has not yet reached the level of a mass extinction event according to this definition.

However, if the current rate of extinction continues or increases, it could eventually lead to a sixth mass extinction. Urgent action is therefore required to save many endangered genera. Scientists emphasize the need to stop the destruction of natural habitats and work towards restoring those that have been lost.

In conclusion, the study highlights the significant role of invasive species in extinctions. Human activities are the primary cause of this accelerated extinction rate. Urgent action is needed to prevent further biodiversity loss and protect endangered genera.

Sources:
– The source article.