What can be a direct consequence of habitat loss in coastal regions?

Habitat loss in coastal regions can lead to decreased water quality, which is a significant environmental concern. When natural habitats such as wetlands, mangroves, or coral reefs are destroyed, the ecological functions they provide are diminished. These habitats play a vital role in filtering pollutants, absorbing excess nutrients, and maintaining overall water clarity.

With the loss of these natural filtering systems, sediments and contaminants can be more readily washed into waterways, leading to higher turbidity and lower oxygen levels. This degradation impacts not only the aquatic life that depends on clean and healthy water but also the quality of water available for human use. Consequently, as habitat loss occurs, water quality declines, which can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem.

In contrast, increased biodiversity, higher fish populations, and more recreational areas would typically require intact and thriving habitats, making them less likely direct outcomes of habitat loss.