Humans have emerged as the planet’s most extraordinary predator, doing things that other predators do not, killing or capturing for reasons other than feeding themselves, according to study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) and the University of Victoria in Canada.
The research indicates that over one third of all vertebrate species on Earth are utilized by humans, leading to disproportionate impacts on ecosystems and the valuable services provided by nature to humans.
PREY SPECIES MORE
It found humans have up to 300 times more prey species than comparable predators over the same geographic ranges. Almost 40% of exploited species are now threatened with extinction.
Unlike other predators who primarily hunt for sustenance, humans exploit animals for a wide range of purposes such as pets, food, clothing, research, or trophy hunting. Unlike other predators who primarily hunt for sustenance, humans exploit animals for a wide range of purposes such as pets, food, clothing, research, or trophy hunting.
UKCEH ecological modeller Dr Rob Cooke, co-lead author of the study, published in Communications Biology, says: “The unnatural selection of animals by human predators could lead to a range of repercussions across ecosystems. From the potential loss of large seed-dispersers such as the Helmeted Hornbill, to mega herbivores such as the Black Rhino, to migratory predators such as large sharks.”
CONSERVATION
The researchers stress the urgent need for policies and conservation efforts to protect vertebrates, particularly those species that are overexploited and play unique roles in ecosystems. They suggest that valuable lessons can be learned from sustainable relationships between humans and their prey, such as the historic fishing practices of Pacific Herring, which remained sustainable for thousands of years before industrial overexploitation.
The study analyzed data on 45,000 vertebrate species and identified 15,000 species that humans currently exploit, with approximately 6,000 of them under threat of extinction. Humans utilize a significantly higher number of species compared to other comparable predators. For instance, while a Jaguar has nine prey species within its geographic range, humans use around 2,700 species. Similarly, a Barn Owl has 462 prey species, whereas humans exploit approximately 11,400 species within the same range.
Co-lead author Professor Chris Darimont of the University Of Victoria describes humans as the planet’s most extraordinary predator, engaging in activities beyond mere sustenance and simultaneously endangering numerous prey species. The authors emphasize that over time, humans have occupied a disproportionately large ecological niche, and our ability to manage the resulting impacts has not kept pace with our growth.
“Over millennia, human beings have gradually occupied a super-sized ecological niche and our ability to manage our impacts has not kept pace with that growth,” adds co-author Dr Boris Worm of Dalhousie University, Canada.
Moreover, the study sheds light on the risks associated with exploiting species that possess distinct attributes, such as large body size and a plant-based diet, in comparison to other vertebrates. The researchers stress that humans are exploiting a diverse and ecologically unique set of species, and the loss of these animals and their ecological roles could lead to significant changes in ecosystems.
International commitments aiming to protect 30 percent of the planet by 2030 may contribute to creating more space for nature. Additionally, discussions and negotiations under the Convention on Biological Diversity have focused on how to manage and reduce the impacts of human activities on various species.
SOME WAYS TO PROTECT ENDANGERED SPECIES
Habitat protection: Preserving the natural habitats of endangered species is critical for their survival. Establishing protected areas such as national parks, wildlife reserves, and marine protected areas helps safeguard their habitats from destruction or degradation.
Regulating hunting and trade: Many endangered species face threats from hunting and illegal trade. Governments can enforce laws and regulations to control or prohibit activities such as poaching, capturing, or trading endangered species, thereby reducing their exploitation.
Addressing pollution and climate change: Pollution and climate change pose significant risks to endangered species and their habitats. Taking actions to reduce pollution, mitigate climate change, and promote sustainable practices can help alleviate these threats and create a more favourable environment for endangered species to thrive.
Raising awareness: Increasing public awareness about endangered species and the challenges they face is crucial. Education programs, public campaigns, and media coverage can help raise awareness, foster empathy, and promote a sense of responsibility towards conservation efforts.
Supporting conservation organizations: Numerous organizations dedicated to protecting endangered species and their habitats rely on support from individuals and communities. By donating funds, volunteering time, or contributing skills, you can assist these organizations in their conservation initiatives.
Promoting sustainable practices: Encouraging sustainable practices in various sectors, such as agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, helps minimize negative impacts on endangered species. Sustainable practices aim to balance human needs with the conservation of biodiversity, ensuring a harmonious coexistence.
Conducting research and monitoring: Scientific research and monitoring play vital roles in understanding endangered species, their behaviours, and their habitats. By supporting research efforts, governments and organizations can gather crucial data to develop effective conservation strategies.
Collaborating internationally: Endangered species often cross national borders, necessitating international collaboration. Cooperation between countries, sharing knowledge, and implementing conservation agreements and treaties can enhance conservation efforts on a global scale.
