Recent research conducted by scientists from Stanford University and the National Autonomous University of Mexico reveals a disturbing trend in mass extinctions. The analysis indicates that human activities are leading to the "mutilation of the tree of life," eliminating entire genera, posing significant harm to humanity.

So far, both science and public opinion have primarily focused on the extinction of individual species. However, the findings of Gerardo Ceballos from the National Autonomous University of Mexico and Paul Ehrlich from Stanford University shed light on an even more alarming problem: the extinction of entire genera, termed as the "mutilation of the tree of life."

Analyzing data from sources such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Birdlife International, scientists examined 5,400 genera of terrestrial vertebrates, encompassing 34,600 species. Since 1500, 73 genera of terrestrial vertebrates have gone extinct, with birds (44 genera) experiencing the most significant losses, followed by mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. The current rate of genera extinction for vertebrates is 35 times higher than in the last million years.

When a species goes extinct, other species within its genus can often fill at least some of its ecological roles. However, the disappearance of entire genera creates a significant gap in the canopy, resulting in biodiversity loss that may take tens of millions of years to recover through the process of speciation. Such loss of biodiversity has serious consequences for humanity, as the stability of our civilization depends on the services provided by Earth's biodiversity.

The rise of Lyme disease is one example of how the extinction of genera affects humanity. After the extinction of passenger pigeons, their ecological competitors, such as white-footed mice, the primary carriers of Lyme disease, proliferated, leading to an increase in the number of Lyme disease cases in humans. This situation involves only one genus, and mass extinctions of genera may signify a proportionate increase in catastrophes for humanity.

Ceballos and Ehrlich call for immediate political, economic, and social actions on an unprecedented scale. They emphasize the need to enhance conservation efforts, especially in tropical regions with the highest concentration of genera facing extinction. Additionally, they call for an increase in public awareness regarding the extinction crisis.