In what way does deforestation affect ecosystems?

Deforestation significantly impacts ecosystems primarily by leading to habitat loss and a decrease in biodiversity. When trees and forests are cleared, the myriad of species that depend on these habitats for food, shelter, and breeding grounds are displaced or face extinction. Forests are home to a large variety of plants and animals, and the removal of trees disrupts these interconnected ecological relationships. Additionally, deforestation can fragment ecosystems, making it difficult for species to migrate, find mates, or access essential resources.

The loss of biodiversity can have cascading effects on the ecosystem's health and resilience. Ecosystems with high biodiversity are often better able to recover from disturbances, maintain ecological balance, and provide essential services such as clean air, water, and soil fertility. Consequently, when biodiversity declines due to deforestation, the overall stability and functioning of the ecosystem can be severely compromised. Thus, the assertion that deforestation leads to habitat loss and decreased biodiversity accurately captures the negative consequences of this environmental issue.