Which of the following is a drawback of a corridor that connects habitat fragments?

• A. Increased spread of diseases between populations
• B. Improved migration routes for species
• C. Greater availability of resources
• D. Enhanced genetic diversity

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of habitat corridors: Habitat corridors are strips of natural habitat that connect separate populations of wildlife. They are designed to allow animals to move between isolated patches of habitat, which can help maintain biodiversity.
2. Identify the potential benefits of habitat corridors: These include improved migration routes for species, greater availability of resources, and enhanced genetic diversity. These benefits occur because corridors allow for the movement of individuals between populations, which can lead to increased genetic exchange and access to different resources.
3. Consider the potential drawbacks of habitat corridors: While they have many benefits, corridors can also facilitate the spread of diseases between populations. This is because they allow for increased contact between individuals from different populations, which can lead to the transmission of pathogens.
4. Analyze the options given in the problem: The options include increased spread of diseases between populations, improved migration routes for species, greater availability of resources, and enhanced genetic diversity. Three of these are benefits, while one is a drawback.
5. Identify the correct answer: The drawback of a corridor that connects habitat fragments is the increased spread of diseases between populations. This is because corridors can act as pathways for diseases to spread more easily between previously isolated populations.