What does habitat fragmentation lead to?

Habitat fragmentation is a process that occurs when a large, continuous habitat is divided into smaller, isolated patches. This division typically happens due to human activities such as urban development, agriculture, and road construction. As habitats are fragmented, the area available for wildlife decreases, leading to several ecological consequences.

One of the key impacts of habitat fragmentation is the isolation of populations. Smaller patches can support fewer individuals, which may lead to decreased genetic diversity and increased vulnerability to extinction. Additionally, fragmented habitats may not support the same range of species that a larger, continuous area would. This isolation can hinder species' ability to find mates, migrate, or access resources, which are critical for their survival.

In contrast, habitat fragmentation usually does not lead to enhanced connectivity of ecosystems, increased species diversity, or a reduction of non-native species. Rather, it tends to create barriers that disrupt ecological processes and often favors certain adaptable species while putting others at risk. This highlights the importance of maintaining large, contiguous habitats to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem functions.