Kialo requires JavaScript to work correctly.
Could the de-extinction of certain species help the environment?
Loading Discussion
Selected claim, supporting its parent
Restoring
apex predators
can bring can improve the overall health of an ecosystem. This was the case with the
wolves
that had been locally extinct in Yellowstone National Park.
Pros
Cons
Pro claim 1, children below
The return of these wolves is an example of a positive
trophic cascade
. Trophic cascades are changes that occur in an ecosystem due to the extinction or reintroduction of a key predator.
Con claim 1, children below
Reintroducting the wolves to Yellowstone was
not enough
to completely restore the ecosystem.
Con claim 2, children below
It is
not certain
that the wolves' return had a significant positive impact on Yellowstone's environment.