How does deforestation impact biodiversity?

Deforestation significantly impacts biodiversity primarily by leading to habitat loss. When forests are cleared for agriculture, urban development, or other purposes, the natural habitats that many species depend on are destroyed. This results in a decrease in the availability of food sources, nesting areas, and shelter for various organisms. As habitats shrink and become fragmented, it becomes increasingly difficult for species to survive, reproduce, and carry out their life cycles. The loss of biodiversity can disrupt ecological balance, leading to further environmental degradation, as each species plays a unique role in its ecosystem. Therefore, the connection between deforestation and biodiversity loss is well-established; when forests are removed, the intricate relationships among species are threatened, leading to a decline in overall biodiversity.