Which of the following statements accurately describes an effect of forest fragmentation on biodiversity?

Forest fragmentation occurs when large expanses of forest are broken up into smaller, isolated patches due to human activities such as logging, agriculture, or urban development. This process significantly impacts biodiversity, primarily leading to decreased biodiversity levels.

When forests are fragmented, the remaining patches become smaller and more isolated, which can have several detrimental effects on wildlife and plant species. These smaller areas may not support viable populations of certain species, particularly those that require larger territories or have specific habitat needs. Additionally, isolation can hinder the movement of species between forest patches, which is crucial for genetic diversity, mating opportunities, and re-colonization of areas after local extinctions.

Moreover, edge effects become more pronounced in fragmented forests. This means that the conditions at the boundary between forest and non-forest land can alter the microclimate and introduce invasive species that further threaten native biodiversity. As a result, forest fragmentation is recognized as a significant threat to ecosystems, leading not only to a loss of species but also to reduced resilience in forest communities.

In summary, the impact of forest fragmentation on biodiversity is indeed associated with a decline in biodiversity levels due to habitat loss, isolation of populations, edge effects, and increased vulnerability to invasive species.