In conservation biology, which of the following is a major human-caused driver of ecosystem disruption?

• A. Habitat destruction and fragmentation due to land-use change (e.g., deforestation and urbanization)
• B. Seasonal variation in temperature and precipitation patterns
• C. Plate tectonic movement leading to continental drift
• D. Natural ecological succession in an undisturbed community

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept: The question asks for a major human-caused driver of ecosystem disruption in conservation biology.
2. Understand the options: Review each option to determine if it is caused by human activity or natural processes.
3. Recognize that habitat destruction and fragmentation due to land-use change (such as deforestation and urbanization) are direct results of human actions impacting ecosystems.
4. Note that seasonal variation in temperature and precipitation, plate tectonic movement, and natural ecological succession are natural processes, not primarily caused by humans.
5. Conclude that the major human-caused driver of ecosystem disruption is habitat destruction and fragmentation due to land-use change.