They can tell us how, when, and why some plants and animals became extinct or evolved into new species. Prehistoric creatures were the ancestors of modern creatures. So studying prehistoric creatures may help us understand plants and animals that live today. Just as people sometimes speak of an Age of Dinosaurs, so is today an Age of People. There are many millions of people on Earth, and our numbers are still growing.
People compete with plants and animals for food, water, and living space.
That is why plants and animals are becoming extinct at an alarming rate. Scientists often compare today s great extinction event with similar events that occurred millions of years ago. This helps people realize the importance of preserving Earth s biodiversity , or variety of living things. Since scientists also study prehistoric humans, they may help us understand ourselves. And understanding how ancient people and other creatures coped with changing environments may help us cope with our rapidly changing environment.