Endangered species refer to the level of plants or animals whose population has been reduced to a point where their survival is at high risk. The extinction of a species refers to the extinction of a particular species on the earth, which is not going to come back. In the history of nature, there have always been species born and species that have dissolved in the evolution. But nowadays the extinction rate has grown tremendously. Scientists project that species are now dying at a rate that is much higher than the natural one. It is vital to know the causes of endangering of species and the implications of this on eco systems in biodiversity awareness.

Habitat loss is one of the primary factors that contribute to the endangerment of species. Forests are being cleared to give way to agriculture, cities are intruding to the natural landscapes, wetlands are being drained and coral reefs are being polluted and destroyed by increased temperature. With destruction of habitats, animals lose the means of survival. There is a shortage of food, loss of shelter, and breeding grounds. The species which once possessed huge numbers are able to deplete in a short period when their habitats become smaller.

Overexploitation is another significant reason. This involves hunting, fishing, logging and harvesting in an unsustainable level. When the human race eliminates members of a population at a rate higher than the reproduction rate, the population reduces. Others are used in the production of meat, fur or body parts. Others are sold into the pet business. As time goes by, the constant exploitation of populations undermines them and also diminishes the genetic diversity.

There is also a large role of pollution. This is because chemicals that are emitted into the air, water, and soil poison wildlife either directly or indirectly or pollute food sources. The plastic trash may entangle or be confused with food supply by animals. Oil spills cause damage to sea creatures and coastal plants and animals. Even low traces of pollutants may build up in organisms over a long period leading to long term health complications.

There is further pressure on climate change. The increase in temperature changes the habitats. The melting ice makes the polar species to have less space to live.The rapid changes are too fast to endure by many species who are unable to migrate or adapt rapidly.

Conservation awareness is concerned with eliminating the occurrence of extinction. Habitats are preserved by the use of such protected areas as national parks and wildlife reserves. Hunting and trade are controlled by laws. Breeding programs contribute to the boosting of the population of endangered species. Damaged ecosystems are fixed through habitat restoration.

The process of saving endangered species is not solely concerned with the preservation of beautiful animals. It is concerned with the preservation of functional ecosystems, which will sustain life on earth.Endangered species are millions of years of evolution.To preserve endangered species is to preserve the future of biodiversity.