A tsunami hits the coast of a heavily populated island. Which effect might occur as a result of this event?

• A. A rapid increase in soil fertility due to the removal of all vegetation.
• B. An immediate increase in the population size of all native species.
• C. Stabilization of the ecosystem with no noticeable changes.
• D. A significant decrease in local biodiversity due to habitat destruction.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including the number of species, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity.
2. Recognize the impact of natural disasters like tsunamis: Tsunamis are large-scale disturbances that can cause widespread destruction of habitats, leading to loss of vegetation, soil erosion, and displacement or death of organisms.
3. Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each option based on the ecological consequences of a tsunami. For example, a rapid increase in soil fertility is unlikely because vegetation is removed, and soil erosion occurs. Similarly, an immediate increase in population size of native species is improbable due to habitat destruction.
4. Focus on habitat destruction: Habitat destruction is a key factor in reducing biodiversity. When habitats are destroyed, species lose their homes, food sources, and breeding grounds, leading to a decline in population sizes and extinction of some species.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is related to biodiversity loss: The significant decrease in local biodiversity due to habitat destruction is the most plausible outcome of a tsunami hitting a heavily populated island.