On a human-dominated planet: Part 3

In class, we focused largely on the negative effects of humans on biodiversity, and there is no denying that in manipulating the environment to serve our needs, we have displaced and killed inordinate numbers of plants and animals. Some species, particularly ones that are not native to a particular region, may thrive in human-dominated landscapes. One study, in particular, showed that diversity peaks in moderately disturbed habitats because native and exotic species co-exist there. Unique combinations of species occur along gradients from pristine to human-dominated.

Human dominance is associated with uniquely human attributes such as complex social interactions, economics, agriculture, and technology – the things that make us human. A primary concern moving forward is how our actions are affecting our own wellbeing. In the context of the current biodiversity crisis, we need to pay particular attention to species that contribute key ecological processes, functions, and services that are important for our own survival.