Which of the following poses the greatest threat to the savanna areas of Africa?

• A. Frequent earthquakes
• B. Desertification due to overgrazing and deforestation
• C. Volcanic eruptions
• D. Glacial melting

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the savanna ecosystem: Savannas are grassland ecosystems characterized by scattered trees and a warm climate. They are home to diverse flora and fauna and are sensitive to environmental changes.
2. Analyze the options provided: Frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and glacial melting are geological or climate-related phenomena. These are not typically associated with the savanna ecosystem's primary threats.
3. Focus on desertification: Desertification is the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically due to human activities such as overgrazing and deforestation. This is a major environmental issue in Africa, particularly in savanna regions.
4. Explain the impact of overgrazing and deforestation: Overgrazing by livestock removes vegetation cover, leading to soil erosion. Deforestation, the removal of trees, further exacerbates soil degradation and reduces the land's ability to retain water, accelerating desertification.
5. Conclude why desertification is the greatest threat: Desertification directly affects the savanna's ability to sustain life, leading to loss of biodiversity, reduced agricultural productivity, and displacement of local communities. This makes it the most significant threat compared to the other options provided.