What does "habitat fragmentation" describe?

Habitat fragmentation describes the process where large habitats are split into smaller, isolated patches, which can significantly impact the flora and fauna that rely on those habitats for survival. This division often results from human activities such as urban development, agricultural expansion, and road construction, leading to decreased connectivity between habitats.

As a consequence of fragmentation, species may find it harder to migrate, reproduce, or access resources, ultimately threatening biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for forest workers and conservationists, as it allows them to implement strategies for habitat preservation and restoration effectively.

The other options refer to different ecological concepts. The growth of invasive species pertains to species that can disrupt local ecosystems but doesn't necessarily involve habitat size or connectivity. Natural expansion of wildlife areas relates more to the enlargement of habitats rather than their division. Finally, the restoration of damaged forest areas involves rehabilitating environments without specifically mentioning fragmentation effects.