What impact does pollution have on wildlife habitats?

Pollution can harm organisms and disrupt food webs, which is a critical issue in wildlife habitats. Different forms of pollution, such as chemical runoff, plastics, and heavy metals, can contaminate water, soil, and air, leading to adverse health effects in various species. For instance, pollutants can accumulate in the tissues of animals, causing a decline in individual health, reproductive success, and even mortality.

This toxicity can also affect the organisms that form the base of the food web, leading to a cascading effect throughout the ecosystem. For example, if fish are impacted by water pollution, the birds that feed on them may experience declines in population due to lack of food or health issues stemming from consuming contaminated prey.

Moreover, pollution can reduce habitat quality, making it less suitable for wildlife. This degradation may lead to decreased biodiversity as some species are unable to adapt to the contaminated environment, while others may outcompete native species, further disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. This option accurately reflects the significant and detrimental effects pollution has on wildlife habitats and the organisms that inhabit them.