What does the term "overexploitation" mean in relation to wildlife?

The term "overexploitation" refers to the excessive and unsustainable harvesting of wildlife. This phenomenon occurs when wildlife species are hunted, fished, or otherwise removed from their natural habitats at a rate that exceeds their ability to regenerate, leading to population declines and, potentially, extinction. Overexploitation can be driven by factors such as high demand for wildlife products, habitat destruction, and lack of effective management practices.

Understanding overexploitation is critical in wildlife ecology because it highlights the importance of sustainable practices. When wildlife is harvested in a manner that exceeds its sustainable yield, it not only affects the species involved but can also disrupt entire ecosystems. The other options relate to wildlife management and conservation strategies but do not define the specific concept of overexploitation. Thus, focusing on the unsustainable nature of overexploitation emphasizes the need for responsible wildlife management to ensure biodiversity and ecosystem health.