The species assessment so far is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of assessing global biodiversity. In total, about 1.8 million separate species have been described; estimates of the total number in existence range from 2 million to 100 million.
Reprinted from Greenwire with permission from Environment & Energy Publishing, LLC. www.eenews.net, 202-628-6500



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6 Comments
Add CommentNo biodiversity - No homo sapiens.
Reply | Report Abuse | Link to thisIf we keep chasing the 1% (endangered species) all of western civilization will eventually become paralized. You won't even be able to brush you teeth without killing some helpless plant or animal. We spend billions and billions on Endanged species and less then 1% ever make it off the list. Time to cut some of them loose and concetrate on the ones that have a chance! Species come and go. It has always been that way. Some people want to undo the natural way. Good Luck!
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Reply | Report Abuse | Link to thisAlthough the extinction of various species is a natural phenomenon, the rate of extinction occurring in today's world is exceptional -- as many as 100 to1,000 times greater than normal, Dr. Donald A. Levin said in the January-February issue of American Scientist magazine.
Although the extinction of various species is a natural phenomenon, the rate of extinction occurring in today's world is exceptional -- as many as 100 to1,000 times greater than normal, Dr. Donald A. Levin said in the January-February issue of American Scientist magazine (2002)
Reply | Report Abuse | Link to thisIt is human overpopulation that is putting pressure on fauna and flora alike. To produce 1 pound of beef takes 50 pounds of cereals, plus soy beans. Eat less meat and we can feed the world. Well-fed people have less children, taking pressure off world ressources and reducing pollution. It is for individual consumers to reject beef, and limit meat-eating to two days per week. Don't wait for politicians to legislate...
Reply | Report Abuse | Link to thisSorry, guys. You lost most of your credibility when you proclaimed the Blue Whale extinct, and all of it when you declared the Spotted Owl endangered. Neither was true.
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