This introduction covers The Sixth Mass Extinction within Biodiversity and Human Impacts for GCSE Biology. Topic 5: Biodiversity and Human Impacts on Ecosystems It is section 1 of 16 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
🌍 The Sixth Mass Extinction
Scientists estimate that species are disappearing up to 1,000 times faster than they would naturally. We are living through the sixth mass extinction in Earth's history — and for the first time, one species is responsible: us. But here's the thing: biodiversity is not just about saving pretty animals. It is the web of life that keeps our planet functioning. Every species lost is a thread pulled from that web.
Practice questions for Biodiversity and Human Impacts
What is the best definition of biodiversity?
Explain why deforestation leads to a reduction in biodiversity.
Quick recall flashcards
What is biodiversity?
The variety of all different species of organisms on Earth, or within a particular ecosystem.
Includes the range of different habitats and genetic variation within species.
What is eutrophication and what causes it?
Eutrophication is when excess nutrients (from fertiliser or sewage run-off) enter water.
This causes rapid algae growth, blocking sunlight to underwater plants.
When algae die and decompose, oxygen is used up, killing aquatic organisms.