What does habitat fragmentation refer to?

Habitat fragmentation refers specifically to the process of breaking larger habitats into smaller, isolated patches. This phenomenon often occurs due to human activities such as urban development, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure projects, which can effectively divide ecosystems into smaller units. These isolated habitats can have significant ecological consequences, including affecting species populations, disrupting migration routes, and altering ecosystem processes. Fragmentation can limit genetic diversity since populations become smaller and more isolated, making it difficult for species to survive in the long term. Understanding habitat fragmentation is crucial for conservation efforts, as it highlights the need to maintain connectivity between patches to allow for species movement and ecological resilience.