The rate at which extinctions occurred prior to the evolution of modern humans is called the ____.
A) E.O.Wilson postulate
B) species diversity index
C) living planet index
D) baseline extinction rate
E) background extinction rate

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term used to describe the rate of extinctions that occurred before the emergence of modern humans is "background extinction rate," also known as "baseline extinction rate." This rate provides a reference point for measuring the impact of human activities on biodiversity. Option D refers to the same concept as option E, but "baseline extinction rate" is the more commonly used term. Options A, B, and C are not relevant to this concept.

The Rate at Which Extinctions Occurred Prior to the Evolution