On a human-dominated planet: Part 2

As a dominant organism on earth that is capable of rational thought and action, humans are in the unique position of being able to both help and harm other species. This dichotomy between stewardship and dominion is a central aspect of conservation biology. Take, for instance, the number of animals and plants that are deliberately cared for by humans as pets; livestock, crop, or aquaculture organisms; zoo, aquarium, or garden residents; and refugees from destroyed habitats or inhumane conditions. Approximately 29 million animals from 180 species are kept as livestock in the U.S. alone, and over 170 plant species account for over a trillion metric tons of agricultural production worldwide. Many of these organisms rely on humans for survival.

At the same time, we are impacting species in a variety of ways. In Marine Ecology, we discussed threats to marine systems associated with overfishing, climate change, pollution, and biological invasions. We are becoming increasingly aware of the impacts we have on our home. The task ahead is to modify our lifestyles to become more sustainable. Many conservation efforts to date have focused on species that directly affect our survival and well being. Moving forward, it will be necessary to consider both those species and others in the ecosystems we seek to conserve.