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The clearing of forests for agriculture has led to habitat fragmentation - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 25 - 2022
Question 25
The clearing of forests for agriculture has led to habitat fragmentation. Habitat fragments are often connected by hedgerows that provide habitat corridors as shown ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The clearing of forests for agriculture has led to habitat fragmentation - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 25 - 2022
Step 1
1. Recolonisation after local extinctions is more likely in fragment Y than X.
Answer
This statement is likely correct. Fragment Y could potentially have a higher rate of recolonisation due to its connection with the hedgerow, which may facilitate species movement. The habitat corridor can serve as a pathway for organisms to return after local extinctions, thereby enhancing the likelihood of recolonisation compared to fragment X.
Step 2
2. Fragment Y is likely to have a greater species diversity than fragment X.
Answer
This statement is also likely true. Since fragment Y is connected by a hedgerow, it may host a greater variety of species due to easier access and connectivity to other habitats, which can enhance species richness. By contrast, fragment X may be more isolated, leading to lower diversity.
Step 3
3. Degradation of the edges of habitat fragments X and Y is likely to reduce species diversity in both fragments.
Answer
This statement holds validity as well. Edge degradation can negatively impact the microhabitats that many species rely on, diminishing the available resources and habitat quality. This degradation can restrict species movement and reduce overall diversity within both fragments.