How does catastrophic environmental change impact populations?

Catastrophic environmental changes, such as natural disasters, climate change, or habitat destruction, typically lead to drastic alterations in ecosystems. These events can severely affect the survival of species and their populations. When such changes occur, they often result in the rapid reduction of available resources, altered habitats, and increased competition for survival. Consequently, organisms that are less adapted to the new conditions may not survive, leading to a swift decline in population sizes. This impact on population dynamics is significant, as reduced numbers can diminish genetic diversity, disrupt mating behaviors, and hinder overall population viability.

The chosen answer highlights the reality that these environmental disturbances often lead to negative outcomes for populations, particularly in terms of size and stability. It reflects the common ecological principle that sudden, drastic changes in the environment can create conditions too harsh for many individuals within a species to endure, effectively pushing them toward extinction.