Extinction and Preserving Species

This lesson covers: 

1. Why some species are in danger or disappearing
2. Why it's important for us to save different kinds of living things
3. How gene banks help save species from extinction

Species at risk of becoming extinct

Some animals and plants do really well because they can find what they need to live, like food and water. However, when the environment changes too much, some might not be able to survive.

When there are no more of a certain species left, we say they are extinct.

If a species is close to being extinct, it is endangered.

Consequences of species extinction for humans

Saving different species is important because if one species becomes extinct it can affect other species in the community.

Having a number of different species also provides resources for humans.

We need animals and plants to provide many useful items:

• Food - Necessary for us to eat.
• Clothing - Materials like cotton from plants and wool from sheep.
• Medicines - Many are derived from plants and animals.
• Fuel - Biofuels come from crops.

Gene banks - A potential solution

Gene banks are like big libraries that keep the genetic material of plants and animals.

This can help save species from going extinct.

Here's how it works:

• For plants - Seeds are collected and stored. If the plants ever disappear in the wild, the seeds can be used to grow new plants.
• For animals - Animal sperm and egg cells are frozen and stored. Later, these can be used to create new animals if needed.

Gene banks are a way to help save species, but it's also important to protect where they live and solve the problems causing them to die out.