extinction rates

Today’s extinction rates are sky-high. But scientists debate if that’s sufficient evidence to conclude that Earth is undergoing a mass extinction event—or whether that’s even a helpful designation.

The Georgetown University biologist studies how climate change contributes to the emergence of new zoonotic threats.

Extinction is a natural part of life on Earth. But occasionally, extinction rates have surged far beyond usual levels, driving mass extinction events that have reshaped the trajectory of life.

The study estimates that one-fifth of reptile species worldwide are at risk of extinction.

Data on vertebrate species that have become, or are likely to become, extinct reveal plant eaters are most under threat.

The most extensive global survey of plant extinctions to date reveals cause for concern.

An artist’s impression suggests what the Caribbean may have looked like before humans arrived. 

The Sixth Extinction, Joy, Guilt, Anger, Love, Ha! The Science of When we Laugh and Why, and Ten Thousand Birds

Researchers pinpoint rapid speciation, reduced extinction rates as reasons for increased diversity among tropical amphibians.

Decades can pass between the discovery of a new animal or plant and its official debut in the scientific literature.

A new report estimates that human activities as well as other factors are threatening 20 percent of all invertebrate species, including corals and freshwater snails.

Reversing catastrophic threats to our planet’s biodiversity is not optional: our lives depend on it.