What term describes the condition in which a species no longer exists on Earth?

The term that refers to the condition in which a species no longer exists on Earth is "extinction." This occurs when the last individual of a species dies, signaling that the species can no longer reproduce or survive in its environment. Extinction can result from a variety of factors, including habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, and overexploitation by humans. This concept is crucial for understanding biodiversity and conservation efforts, as it highlights the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats to prevent them from disappearing forever.

In contrast, the other terms relate to the status of species but do not describe complete disappearance. Endangerment refers to species that are at risk of extinction but still have some living members. Diminishment implies a reduction in the population size or distribution of a species but does not necessarily mean it is entirely gone. Habitat loss indicates the destruction or degradation of the natural environment in which a species lives, which can lead to endangerment or extinction but is not synonymous with the condition of a species no longer existing.