Question

The most important reason for the decrease in biodiversity is:

• A. Over-exploitation
• B. Habitat pollution
• C. Habitat destruction
• D. Introduction of exotic species

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Habitat destruction

The correct option is C.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Habitat destruction is also called habitat loss and habitat reduction.
2. Habitat destruction is a progressive process by which a natural habitat becomes unsuitable for supporting its native species.
3. Industrialization on a huge scale, harvesting natural resources leading to deforestation, mining, and other human contributions lead to habitat destruction.
4. This deprives species of plants and animals of their natural habitat and perturbs the ecological balance.
5. The species either die or migrate leading to massive dilapidation of biodiversity.
6. Over-exploitation, habitat pollution, and the introduction of exotic species also impact biodiversity but isn't leading cause like habitat destruction.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option A: The action or fact of making excessive use of a resource is known as over-exploitation. This does not lead to a decrease in biodiversity.

Option B: Habitat pollution does not lead to a decrease in biodiversity.

Option D: Introduction of exotic species does not lead to a decrease in biodiversity.

Final answer: The most important reason for the decrease in biodiversity is habitat destruction.