The endangered species act has been criticized for its emphasis on protecting only

The answer is emphasis on protecting only the endangered species. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) was signed on December 28, 1973, and offers for the conservation of species that are endangered or susceptible throughout all or an important portion of their range, and the conservation of the ecosystems on which they depend. The ESA substituted the Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1969. Congress has adjusted the ESA several times.