Why are ecological changes responsible for extinction?

Extinction is the result of natural selection: when an ecological shift alters the environment, organisms have to adapt or become extinct.

Large mammals became extinct as the climate warmed after the ice ages, and the saber-tooth tiger, which was dependent on these animals, is thought to have perished as well. The extinction of large mammals was caused by changes in the environment brought about by ecological shifts.

Ecological changes can lead to extinction because they disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems, causing loss of habitat, food sources, and competition for resources. This can result in reduced population sizes, decreased reproductive success, and increased vulnerability to predators or diseases. Additionally, rapid ecological changes, such as climate change or habitat destruction, may exceed the ability of species to adapt or evolve, ultimately leading to their extinction.