Which aspect of ecosystem health is enhanced by biodiversity?

Biodiversity plays a crucial role in enhancing ecosystem health, particularly through the stabilization of food webs. A diverse array of species within an ecosystem contributes to a more resilient and balanced environment. Different species fulfill various roles in the ecosystem, such as producers, consumers, and decomposers, which collectively help maintain the stability of food webs.

When biodiversity is high, food webs are more complex and interconnected, allowing for greater energy transfer and nutrient cycling. This complexity can lead to more stable populations of species, as diverse ecosystems can better withstand changes and stressors such as climate shifts or disease outbreaks. In essence, when one species is affected by a pest or a change in the environment, other species can fill in the gap, helping to maintain balance and function.

Conversely, options like increased pest vulnerability and monoculture practices do not support ecosystem stability and health. Increased pest vulnerability often arises in less diverse systems where a single pest can have devastating impacts on a uniform crop. Monoculture practices weaken ecosystem resilience because they limit diversity and create environments that are more susceptible to pests and diseases. Similarly, the reduction of natural habitats diminishes species diversity, further destabilizing ecosystems and undermining their health. Therefore, the enhancement of food web stabilization through biodiversity is a