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Biological annihilation via the ongoing sixth mass extinction signaled by vertebrate population losses and declines
- Analyzes the numbers and degrees of range contraction using a sample of 27,600 vertebrate species, and on a more detailed analysis documenting the population extinctions between 1900 and 2015 in 177 mammal species
- Finds that the rate of population loss in terrestrial vertebrates is extremely high—even in “species of low concern"
- Finds that 32% of species sampled have decreased in population size and range
- Results show that all 177 mammals for which the authors have detailed data have lost 30% or more of their geographic ranges
- Data indicate that beyond global species extinctions Earth is experiencing a huge episode of population declines and extirpations, which will have negative cascading consequences on ecosystem functioning and services vital to sustaining civilization
- Describes this as a “biological annihilation” to highlight the current magnitude of Earth’s ongoing sixth major extinction event
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