An extinction event denotes a widespread, rapid decrease in biodiversity on Earth. These catastrophic periods cause the disappearance of countless species...
A mass extinction event is characterized by the rapid and widespread loss of a significant proportion of Earth's species (typically 75% or more) within a geologically short period, profoundly altering ecosystems.
Scientists generally identify five major mass extinction events throughout Earth's history, often referred to as the 'Big Five', each causing a drastic reduction in biodiversity.
Causes vary but often include massive volcanic eruptions, asteroid impacts, rapid climate change, ocean acidification, significant sea-level changes, and shifts in atmospheric composition.
Many scientists believe Earth is entering a sixth mass extinction, driven primarily by human activities such as habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation of resources.