Recent studies show extinction rates have slowed since the early 1900s, indicating a shift in biodiversity loss rather than a recovery. This highlights ongoing threats from habitat loss and climate change.

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B reveals that extinction rates have slowed since their peak in the early 1900s, suggesting a change in how and where biodiversity loss occurs. The research, conducted by Kristen Saban and John Wiens, analyzed 912 documented extinctions over the past 500 years and found that most extinctions occurred on islands due to invasive species. However, current threats are primarily linked to habitat loss and climate change on continents. Despite the apparent slowdown in extinctions, ecosystems continue to degrade, with declining species abundance and loss of ecological knowledge. Conservation efforts have shown effectiveness in some areas, but the scale of response is insufficient compared to the ongoing biodiversity crisis. The study emphasizes the importance of accurate discussions about biodiversity loss and the need for rigorous conservation strategies.