Depauperation

/dɪˌpɔːpəˈreɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The process of becoming poor or impoverished; a reduction in wealth, abundance, or diversity, especially in ecological contexts.

Etymology

From 'depauperate' with the suffix '-ation,' creating a noun that describes the process rather than the state. Rooted in Latin 'pauper' (poor).

Kelly Says

When scientists talk about the 'depauperation of a forest ecosystem,' they're describing how a rich, diverse habitat becomes a poor, sparse one—it's what happens when species disappear!

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