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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Is wildlife trafficking a major threat to biodiversity?

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Writing Task 2 Topic: "Is wildlife trafficking a major threat to biodiversity?"

Model Answer:

In recent years, the world has witnessed an alarming increase in wildlife trafficking, which involves the illegal trade of endangered species and their body parts. This illicit activity poses a significant threat to biodiversity for several reasons. Firstly, the overexploitation of certain species due to excessive hunting and collection for the commercial market can lead to population decline and even extinction. For example, the demand for rhinoceros horns in traditional Chinese medicine has resulted in a sharp decline in rhino populations across Africa. Secondly, habitat destruction caused by infrastructure development, logging, and agricultural expansion also contributes to the loss of biodiversity. As wildlife trafficking often occurs in regions with high levels of deforestation, these two issues are interconnected.

Moreover, wildlife trafficking can disrupt ecological balance within ecosystems, further threatening biodiversity. When certain species are removed from an ecosystem through trafficking, the delicate balance of predator-prey relationships, pollination patterns, and food chains can be disrupted, potentially leading to the collapse of the entire ecosystem. For instance, the illegal trade in African elephants for their ivory has caused a significant decline in elephant populations, which in turn has led to an increase in the number of herbivores in certain regions, exacerbating deforestation rates.

In addition, wildlife trafficking can also facilitate the spread of zoonotic diseases that may have severe consequences for both animal and human populations. The illegal trade of live animals often results in overcrowded conditions, increasing the likelihood of disease transmission between species. This can lead to devastating outbreaks that not only impact the health of affected ecosystems but can also pose a significant risk to public health.

In conclusion, wildlife trafficking is undoubtedly a major threat to biodiversity. Its adverse effects on species populations, habitats, and ecosystems require urgent attention from governments, conservation organizations, and international communities. Through increased enforcement of laws, the development of sustainable practices, and public awareness campaigns, it is possible to mitigate the damage caused by wildlife trafficking and protect our planet's rich diversity for future generations.

Score: Band 9 (Excellent)

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