What is habitat fragmentation?

Habitat fragmentation refers to the process of dividing natural habitats into smaller, isolated sections, which can occur due to various human activities such as urban development, agriculture, and road construction. When a large, continuous habitat is broken into smaller patches, it can lead to negative consequences for wildlife, including reduced access to resources, increased competition, and difficulties in finding mates. Smaller habitat fragments may also support fewer species and can make populations more vulnerable to extinction due to their isolation and the limited genetic diversity that often accompanies it.

In contrast, options that reference the expansion of ecosystems, the creation of larger habitats, or the enhancement of species diversity do not accurately capture the essence of habitat fragmentation, which focuses specifically on the division and isolation of existing habitats. Understanding habitat fragmentation is critical in conservation biology as it helps in devising strategies to protect and restore ecological integrity and connectivity within landscapes.