Which of the following is NOT a factor contributing to forest fragmentation?

Forest fragmentation refers to the process where large, continuous forests are divided into smaller, isolated patches due to various human and natural activities. Understanding the factors that contribute to this issue is essential for effective forest management and conservation.

Increased biodiversity is a condition that generally arises in various ecosystems, particularly when habitats are complex and interconnected. It is characterized by a wide variety of plant and animal species coexisting in a given area. While maintaining biodiversity is crucial for healthy ecosystems, it does not contribute to forest fragmentation. In fact, a diverse ecosystem can help support resilience and recovery within fragmented landscapes by providing various ecological functions such as pollination, seed dispersal, and habitat stabilization.

In contrast, agricultural expansion, urban development, and infrastructure expansion are all activities that typically degrade or alter natural habitats, leading to the division of forests into smaller, disconnected patches. When land is converted for farming, developed into urban areas, or used for roads and other structures, it disrupts the continuity of forest ecosystems, resulting in decreased habitat availability for wildlife, altered microclimates, and increased vulnerability to invasive species.

Thus, recognizing that increased biodiversity fosters ecosystem stability rather than contributes to fragmentation helps clarify why this is the correct choice in distinguishing it from the other factors associated with forest fragmentation