In terms of ecological impact, what is a common effect of pollution?

Decreased species diversity as an effect of pollution can be understood by considering the ways in which pollutants disrupt natural habitats and influence the survival of various species. Pollutants, such as chemicals, heavy metals, and plastics, can contaminate water, air, and soil, leading to adverse conditions for many organisms.

When a habitat is polluted, sensitive species that are unable to tolerate these changes often face population declines or extinction, while only a few tolerant species may thrive. This imbalance leads to a decrease in overall species diversity within the ecosystem. A decline in the variety of species can disrupt food webs and ecosystem functions, as diverse species contribute to resilience and stability.

In contrast, natural ecosystem restoration, increased species migration, and enhanced nutrient cycling generally occur under positive environmental conditions. Restoration is a recovery process that typically follows pollution rather than being a direct effect of it. Increased migration may be a response to changing conditions, but it does not primarily stem from pollution itself. Similarly, enhanced nutrient cycling often results from healthy ecosystems rather than those adversely affected by pollutants. Thus, the direct link between pollution and decreased species diversity highlights the significant ecological impact of human activities on the environment.