What is a major consequence of habitat destruction on biodiversity?

Habitat destruction significantly impacts biodiversity, primarily through the loss of species diversity. When habitats are altered or completely destroyed—due to urbanization, agriculture, deforestation, or other human activities—many species lose their homes, food sources, and breeding grounds. This disruption can lead to population declines and, ultimately, extinctions, particularly for species that are specialized or have limited ranges.

Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem health and resilience. A diverse array of species contributes to ecosystem services, such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control. However, when habitats are destroyed, the intricate web of interactions among species is disrupted, leading to a decline in overall biodiversity. This loss can have cascading effects throughout the ecosystem, weakening its stability and functionality.

The other potential outcomes listed—such as increased species interactions, stabilization of ecosystems, or enhancement of existing habitats—do not accurately reflect the consequences of habitat destruction. Instead, they overlook the critical deterioration of ecological balance that occurs when species are lost and habitats face fragmentation or complete elimination.