An Indication of our Future?

Recently, evidence has been found of a land crab that existed 1,000 years ago and was wiped out by colonists. This particular crab was extremely unique with its ability to travel great distances inland. It was also believed to be important as a predator since it was an omnivore, acting as a control for the ecosystem. However, with the colonist came domesticated animals that the crab was unable to cope with, resulting in their extinction.

This is just one example of the human impact on ecosystems. There have been numerous species that met their "maker" and are now extinct as a result of us. Extinction is definitely part of life, however, humans have exponential increased that rate at which we are losing species. As a species ourselves we need to concerned with the damage we inflict on the various ecosystems that exist globally. This inland crab was important in controlling the number of pests, snails and small birds. The loss of this crab was not detrimental to the ecosystems function, but there are many species today that face extinction that are considered linchpins.

Currently, a quarter of the world's mammal population is facing extinction. But more shocking is that more then half of all mammals are showing declines in their population size.  If we continue with our current living habits these trends will only continue as well. These species are an indication of how far we have degraded our environment. Humans are somewhat a dominant species in the global setting and hold the fate of many species in their hands. We have a responsibility to various species to not deteriorate their environment or hinder their ability to survive.

We need to take responsibility and start altering our behaviour to help those who have no control in the matter, those who are impaired by our actions.