How does deforestation impact biodiversity?

Deforestation leads to habitat loss, which is one of the most significant threats to biodiversity. As forests are cut down or degraded, the natural habitats that countless species rely on for survival are destroyed. This loss of habitat can result in reduced populations of species that cannot adapt to new environments or migrate to suitable areas. Furthermore, the fragmentation of ecosystems can lead to isolated populations that may become more vulnerable to extinction due to reduced gene flow and increased susceptibility to environmental changes.

In essence, when deforestation occurs, the intricate relationships within ecosystems are disrupted, leading to diminished biodiversity. This can result in the decline of both flora and fauna, as well as the essential ecosystem services they provide, such as pollination, water purification, and carbon storage. Thus, the impact of deforestation is profound, directly correlating with a decrease in biodiversity.