What best describes the difference between global extinction and local extinction?

The distinction between global extinction and local extinction is critical in understanding biodiversity and species conservation. Global extinction refers to the complete disappearance of a species from the planet; it means that there are no remaining individuals of that species anywhere in the world. As a result, that species can no longer play its ecological role, and it is permanently lost from the biosphere.

On the other hand, local extinction occurs when a species is no longer found in a specific geographic area or habitat, but it continues to exist in other locations. This means that while the species may be gone from one area—perhaps due to habitat destruction, environmental changes, or competition—it still persists in other regions where conditions may still be favorable for its survival.

Understanding this difference is important for conservation efforts. Local extinctions might suggest a need for habitat restoration or targeted conservation efforts in specific areas, while global extinction indicates a need for more widespread action to preserve the species before it is lost entirely.