What can lead to an increase in biodiversity?

The development of new species through speciation is a key mechanism that leads to an increase in biodiversity. Speciation occurs when populations of a single species become isolated and evolve independently, often due to geographical, ecological, or behavioral factors. Over time, these populations can diverge enough to become distinct species. As the number of different species in an ecosystem increases, so does biodiversity.

This process enhances ecological complexity and resilience, allowing ecosystems to function more effectively. Increased biodiversity can also contribute to ecosystem services, such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and habitat provision, which are crucial for the health of the environment and human societies.

In contrast, extinction events diminish biodiversity by removing species from ecosystems, habitat destruction typically leads to a loss of biodiversity as species lose their habitats, and environmental instability can create conditions that are unfavorable for many species to thrive, ultimately reducing biodiversity rather than increasing it.