Question

which effect has human population growth had on many animal populations in north carolina?
a animal populations have remained relatively stable as animals adapted to new habitats.
b animal populations have increased because competition for resources has decreased.
c animal populations have decreased because their natural habitats have become fragmented or destroyed.
d animal populations have increased as there is less disease transmission between animals and people.

Explanation:

Human population growth leads to habitat destruction (e.g., deforestation for urbanization, agriculture). Fragmented or destroyed habitats reduce living space, food sources, etc. for animals. This causes animal populations to decrease. Option A: Animals adapting to new habitats is rare on a large scale due to human - caused rapid changes. Option B: Human growth leads to more competition (not less) as humans take over resources. Option D: Human activities (e.g., factory farming, pollution) often increase disease transmission risks.

Answer:

C. Animal populations have decreased because their natural habitats have become fragmented or destroyed.