How do human activities affect biodiversity?

Human activities significantly impact biodiversity, primarily leading to habitat loss, species extinction, and a decrease in biodiversity. Urbanization, deforestation, pollution, and agricultural expansion often destroy the habitats that various species rely on for survival. When these natural environments are altered or removed, the organisms that inhabit them may face challenges in finding food, shelter, and mates, leading to dwindling populations.

Additionally, the introduction of invasive species, often a result of human actions, can disrupt the balance of local ecosystems, further threatening native species and reducing overall biodiversity. Overexploitation of resources, such as overfishing and hunting, can directly lead to the extinction of particular species, making the preservation of diverse biological communities challenging.

In contrast, options that suggest little influence, increased populations, or conservation encouragement do not accurately reflect the pervasive and often detrimental effects of human activities on biodiversity. The reality is that human interaction with the environment commonly compromises ecosystem stability and health, showcasing the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect and restore biodiversity.