What can result from continuous habitat degradation?

Continuous habitat degradation can lead to significant environmental changes that severely impact ecosystems. One major consequence of habitat degradation is the extinction of species. As habitats are altered or destroyed—due to factors like deforestation, pollution, urbanization, or climate change—organisms lose their natural environments, which are crucial for their survival.

The loss of habitat can lead to diminished resources such as food, shelter, and breeding sites, putting immense pressure on populations. Species that are unable to adapt to these changing conditions or migrate to new habitats may face population declines, ultimately resulting in extinction. Different species have varying levels of resilience and adaptability, meaning that some may be more vulnerable to rapid environmental changes than others.

In contrast, the other options presented do not align with the consequences of continuous habitat degradation. Increased genetic diversity typically requires a stable and varied habitat, while biodiversity stabilization cannot occur when habitats are continuously degraded. Additionally, population increases of all species are unrealistic in a degraded environment, as many species face decline or extinction rather than growth. Therefore, the extinction of species is the most accurate result of continuous habitat degradation, as it reflects the heightened vulnerability of organisms in compromised ecosystems.