Dodo, passenger pigeon and Stellers sea cow become extinct in the last...
Excessive exploitation of a species, whether a plant or animal reduces size of its population such that it becomes vulnerable to extinction. Dodo, passenger pigeon and Steller's sea cow become extinct in the last 500 years due to over-exploitation by humans.
View all questions of this test
Dodo, passenger pigeon and Stellers sea cow become extinct in the last...
Introduction
The extinction of the dodo, passenger pigeon, and Steller's sea cow within the last 500 years primarily results from over-exploitation by humans. Each of these species faced unique challenges that led to their demise.
Over-Exploitation of Resources
- Dodo: This flightless bird, native to Mauritius, was hunted extensively by sailors and introduced animals. The dodo was easy prey, and within a century of its discovery, it was extinct by the late 17th century.
- Passenger Pigeon: Once numbering in the billions, the passenger pigeon was hunted for sport and food. The relentless hunting and habitat destruction led to their extinction in the early 20th century, with the last known individual dying in 1914.
- Steller's Sea Cow: Discovered in the 18th century, Steller's sea cow was heavily hunted for its meat and skin. Within 27 years of its discovery, it was driven to extinction due to excessive hunting.
Habitat Destruction
While habitat destruction did play a role in the decline of these species, it was the direct hunting and exploitation by humans that had the most immediate and devastating impact.
Other Factors
- Bird-Flu Virus Infection: While diseases can threaten wildlife, they were not the primary cause of extinction in these particular species.
- Pollution: Although pollution affects many species today, it was not a significant factor in the extinction of the dodo, passenger pigeon, or Steller's sea cow.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is option 'B' due to the decisive role of over-exploitation in the extinction of these iconic species, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in wildlife management.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed NEET study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in NEET.