Which of the following can be a direct consequence of habitat changes caused by climate change?

Climate change leads to significant habitat alterations, impacting ecosystems and the species that depend on them. When environments change—whether through shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, or the frequency of extreme weather events—many species struggle to adapt to the new conditions. This inability can be exacerbated for species with specialized habitat requirements or those that cannot migrate to more suitable areas.

As habitats become unsuitable, populations may decline dramatically, leading to a decrease in biodiversity. Some species may face local extinction if they cannot find refuge or adapt to the changing conditions. This direct link between habitat change and species extinction highlights the fragility of ecosystems in the face of climate change and underscores the importance of mitigating these changes to preserve biodiversity.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios that are less likely or may not directly result from habitat changes due to climate change. For instance, improved reproduction rates, increased genetic diversity, and fewer invasive species are not typical responses to the stresses imposed by changing habitats and environmental conditions. These aspects would more likely be influenced by stable or positive environmental changes rather than the detrimental impacts of climate change on habitats.