Extinction - GCSE Biology Definition

Extinction is the term used to describe the permanent loss of a species from the planet. When a species becomes extinct, it means that no individuals of that species are left alive anywhere in the world. This can happen due to factors like changes in the environment, loss of habitat, overhunting, or diseases that spread rapidly among the species. Extinction is a natural process, but human activities have increased the rate at which many species are disappearing. Understanding extinction is important because it affects biodiversity and ecosystems, which are crucial for the health of our planet.