The ravages of guns, nets and bulldozers

The ravages of guns, nets and bulldozers

11 AUGUST 2016 | Sean Maxwell and colleagues
An analysis of IUCN Red List data reveals that overexploitation and agriculture are the primary drivers of biodiversity loss, affecting more than 8,688 species. Overexploitation, including logging, hunting, fishing, and gathering plants, impacts 6,241 species, while agricultural activity threatens 5,407 species. These threats are often interconnected, with more than 80% of species affected by multiple threats. Climate change also affects 19% of species, but current priorities for conservation should focus on addressing overexploitation and agriculture, which are more immediate threats. The study highlights that agricultural expansion and overexploitation tend to occur in biodiverse regions, suggesting these threats may affect many other species not yet assessed. The authors urge conservation efforts to prioritize the biggest current threats to biodiversity. Effective strategies include sustainable harvest regimes, protected areas, and reducing demand for illegal wildlife products. Healthy ecosystems are crucial for adapting to future climate changes. Conservationists should refocus on traditional threats rather than new ones. The study emphasizes the need for action to address current threats to ensure the survival of biodiversity.An analysis of IUCN Red List data reveals that overexploitation and agriculture are the primary drivers of biodiversity loss, affecting more than 8,688 species. Overexploitation, including logging, hunting, fishing, and gathering plants, impacts 6,241 species, while agricultural activity threatens 5,407 species. These threats are often interconnected, with more than 80% of species affected by multiple threats. Climate change also affects 19% of species, but current priorities for conservation should focus on addressing overexploitation and agriculture, which are more immediate threats. The study highlights that agricultural expansion and overexploitation tend to occur in biodiverse regions, suggesting these threats may affect many other species not yet assessed. The authors urge conservation efforts to prioritize the biggest current threats to biodiversity. Effective strategies include sustainable harvest regimes, protected areas, and reducing demand for illegal wildlife products. Healthy ecosystems are crucial for adapting to future climate changes. Conservationists should refocus on traditional threats rather than new ones. The study emphasizes the need for action to address current threats to ensure the survival of biodiversity.
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