Habitat fragmentation
Habitat Fragmentation
Habitat Fragmentation (pronunciation: /ˈhabɪtat ˌfrægmənˈteɪʃən/) is a process by which larger habitats get divided into smaller, isolated patches due to human activities or natural phenomena.
Etymology
The term 'Habitat Fragmentation' is derived from the Latin words 'Habitare' meaning 'to dwell' and 'Fragmentum' meaning 'a broken piece'. It was first used in the late 20th century to describe the impact of human activities on natural habitats.
Definition
Habitat Fragmentation is the process where a large, continuous area of habitat is both reduced in area and divided into two or more fragments. This is often the result of human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture, but can also occur naturally due to events such as wildfires and floods.
Effects
Habitat Fragmentation can have severe effects on biodiversity. It can lead to a decrease in the number of species, a change in species composition, and a decrease in genetic diversity. It can also disrupt the functioning of ecosystems, affecting processes such as nutrient cycling, predation, and pollination.
Related Terms
- Edge Effect: The changes in population or community structures that occur at the boundary of two habitats.
- Habitat Destruction: The process by which natural habitat is rendered functionally unable to support the species present.
- Habitat Loss: The process in which natural habitat is converted into a habitat that is unusable by wildlife.
- Habitat Degradation: The process in which a habitat becomes less able to support the species that live there.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Habitat fragmentation
- Wikipedia's article - Habitat fragmentation
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