logo

Video encyclopedia

Habitat destruction

3:49

Habitat Destruction

3:25

Million animals, plants at risk of extinction due to human activities, U.N. report says

2:49

Climate 101: Deforestation | National Geographic

3:20

habitat destruction

1:19

habitat destruction

Habitat destruction is the process in which natural habitat is rendered unable to support the species present. In this process, the organisms that previously used the site are displaced or destroyed, reducing biodiversity. Habitat destruction by human activity is mainly for the purpose of harvesting natural resources for industrial production and urbanization. Clearing habitats for agriculture is the principal cause of habitat destruction. Other important causes of habitat destruction include mining, logging, trawling, and urban sprawl. Habitat destruction is currently ranked as the primary cause of species extinction worldwide. It is a process of natural environmental change that may be caused by habitat fragmentation, geological processes, climate change or by human activities such as the introduction of invasive species, ecosystem nutrient depletion, and other human activities.
    • Impacts on organisms 

    • Geography 

    • Ecosystems 

    • Natural causes 

    • Human causes 

    • Impact on human population 

    • Outlook 

    • Solutions