What does the term "ecological collapse" refer to?

The term "ecological collapse" refers to a critical state where an ecosystem can no longer sustain its species due to environmental stressors, loss of habitat, or other anthropogenic impacts. This situation often arises when biodiversity declines significantly, leading to a breakdown in ecological interactions that are essential for the survival of various species within the ecosystem. A collapsed ecosystem struggles to provide the necessary resources such as food, shelter, and breeding grounds, which are vital for the continuing survival of its flora and fauna.

In contrast to other options, a period of increased biodiversity would indicate a thriving and resilient ecosystem. The option suggesting a state where an ecosystem can support more species is more aligned with healthy ecosystems, which are typically characterized by balanced interspecies relationships and abundant resources. Additionally, a temporary disruption in ecosystem functions does not equate to collapse; instead, it implies that the ecosystem is resilient enough to recover over time. Therefore, the concept of ecological collapse is specifically linked to a severe and often irreversible decline in ecosystem health and functionality.