Explain how deforestation reduces biodiversity.

AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.7.3 Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Deforestation removes trees, which are the main habitat for many species.

The loss of habitat means fewer species can survive, so species are lost from the ecosystem.

Food sources and other resources are reduced, so consumers that depend on trees or plants cannot survive, breaking inter‑dependence.

All of these effects reduce the variety of living organisms in the ecosystem, so biodiversity decreases.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact terms ‘habitat’, ‘species loss’, ‘interdependence’ and ‘biodiversity’ as the mark scheme expects.
  • Show a clear causal chain: removal of trees → loss of habitat → species loss → reduced food/resources → lower biodiversity.
  • Keep each point concise to match the 4‑mark allocation.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing deforestation with other land‑use changes like agriculture.
  • Using vague phrases such as ‘many animals’ instead of specific impacts on habitat and species.
  • Failing to mention the inter‑dependence of species or the reduction in food resources.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Deforestation removes trees / removes habitats
  2. Fewer species of organisms can survive / species are lost from the ecosystem
  3. Food sources / resources are reduced, so consumers that depend on trees / plants cannot survive (interdependence)
  4. This reduces the variety of living organisms in the ecosystem, so biodiversity decreases

Key terms in this question

deforestation · biodiversity

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