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Extinction

Definition

Extinction refers to the complete loss of a species, where there are no known living individuals remaining. It occurs when a species cannot adapt to changes in its environment or is unable to compete with other species for resources.

Analogy

Imagine a game of musical chairs, where the number of chairs gradually decreases over time. If a player fails to find a chair when the music stops, they are eliminated from the game. Similarly, extinction is like being eliminated from the game of life because a species couldn't find its place in a changing environment.

Related terms

Endangered: A term used to describe a species that is at high risk of becoming extinct due to various factors such as habitat loss or overhunting.

Threatened: This refers to a species that is likely to become endangered if immediate conservation measures are not taken.

Vulnerable: Vulnerable species are those that face significant risks but are not yet endangered or threatened. They may have declining populations or be at risk due to specific threats.