How does habitat fragmentation affect wildlife?

Habitat fragmentation significantly affects wildlife by isolating populations, which can lead to reduced genetic diversity and an increased risk of extinction. When habitats are fragmented, animals may find themselves in smaller, disconnected patches of land, making it difficult for them to migrate, find mates, and establish new territories. This isolation can limit the gene flow between populations, which is crucial for maintaining healthy genetic diversity. Reduced genetic diversity can lead to inbreeding, making species more vulnerable to diseases and environmental changes, thereby increasing their chances of extinction.

In contrast, the other options suggest benefits that habitat fragmentation typically does not provide. For instance, while it might seem that fragmentation creates more space for food sources, the overall impact is often detrimental to wildlife that rely on larger, connected habitats to thrive. Similar logic applies to migration routes, which are usually hindered by fragmented habitats rather than enhanced, and breeding opportunities are often diminished in isolated populations.