A student is conducting research regarding how urbanization impacts biodiversity. For her research, she selects an area that is sparsely vegetated but that has a high population of ground squirrels. This area is currently undergoing rapid urbanization. During her research, she observes the population of ground squirrels is slowly decreasing.

Question

The student decides to approach the local residents and offer them a solution. Which course of action would most likely decrease the impact of urbanization on the ground squirrel population?
A.
promoting inbreeding in the existing ground squirrel population
B.
clearing all remaining vegetation from the area
C.
introducing ground squirrels from other populations
D.
creating protected areas where human activity is limited

Answer 1

The most effective course of action to decrease the impact of urbanization on the ground squirrel population would be:

D. creating protected areas where human activity is limited.

Creating protected areas can provide a safe habitat for the ground squirrels, reducing their exposure to urban development and human activities that can lead to habitat loss and fragmentation. This approach can help sustain their population and promote biodiversity in the urbanizing area. Options A, B, and C may have negative consequences or fail to address the core issue of habitat loss.