Question

number of different species in an area.
decrease in global species richness
the scientists determine:
most ecosystems have lost 14% of their species (on average) over time.
some locations have lost up to 30% of their species.
a loss of greater than 20% to 30% of species in an ecosystem is known to affect ecosystem services.
select three reasons why an ecosystem could experience biodiversity loss.
seasonal change from winter into summer
land development for increased agriculture
population cycling among predators and their prey
increased commercial fishing to meet population needs
fragmentation of visible habitat during urban expansion

Explanation:

• Land development for increased agriculture: This can destroy habitats, reducing the space available for species to live and thrive, thus leading to biodiversity loss.
• Increased commercial fishing to meet population needs: Over - fishing can deplete fish populations. This not only affects the fish species themselves but also the entire aquatic food web, as many other species depend on fish for food or as part of their ecosystem.
• Fragmentation of visible habitat during urban expansion: Habitat fragmentation divides large, continuous habitats into smaller, isolated patches. This can limit the movement of species, disrupt ecological processes (such as pollination and seed dispersal), and make species more vulnerable to extinction.

Seasonal change from winter into summer is a natural cycle that most ecosystems are adapted to and does not typically cause long - term biodiversity loss. Population cycling among predators and their prey is a natural ecological process that helps maintain ecosystem balance rather than causing biodiversity loss.

Answer:

• land development for increased agriculture
• increased commercial fishing to meet population needs
• fragmentation of visible habitat during urban expansion