Which of the following options describes the situation where species like Steller's sea cow and passenger pigeon have been driven to the brink of extinction?

Overexploitation by humans

Over-exploitation refers to the excessive and unsustainable use of natural resources by humans. While it is natural for humans to rely on nature for their basic needs such as food and shelter, problems arise when the demand for resources exceeds the ecosystem's capacity to replenish them. This can lead to the depletion of species and ecosystems, causing irreparable damage to biodiversity.

Throughout history, over-exploitation has played a significant role in the extinction of various species. Steller's sea cow, for example, was a large marine mammal that once inhabited the waters off the coast of Alaska. However, due to excessive hunting for its meat and skin by humans, the species became extinct by the late 18th century.

Another tragic example is the passenger pigeon, which was once one of the most abundant bird species in North America. However, relentless hunting for its meat and feathers led to a rapid decline in its population, and the last known passenger pigeon died in captivity in 1914.

In modern times, over-exploitation remains a major threat to biodiversity, especially in marine ecosystems. Many fish populations around the world are subjected to intense fishing pressure, often exceeding their reproductive capacity to replenish their numbers. As a result, some commercially important fish species are now endangered and at risk of extinction.

To address the challenges of over-exploitation and protect biodiversity, sustainable resource management practices and conservation efforts are essential. By ensuring that human activities are balanced with the ability of ecosystems to regenerate and recover, we can preserve the delicate balance of nature and safeguard the survival of various species and ecosystems for future generations.