Fragmentation breaks up contiguous tracts of natural habitats into smaller patches. In a fragmented landscape where a previously large forest has become a mosaic of patches of different sizes, the following statements can be made about the fragment size and its species diversity.

A. Smaller fragments will always have lower species richness than larger fragments
B. Species richness will depend on fragment size.
C. Species richness will depend on physical connectivity between fragments
D. Species richness cannot be compared between large and small fragments

Select the option where both the statements are correct.

Correct option is B

Explanation-

Analyzing the statements-

A. Smaller fragments will always have lower species richness than larger fragments  -  Incorrect / Overgeneralized
While larger fragments often support more species due to more habitat and resources, the word “always” makes this statement too absolute. Exceptions exist, e.g., some small patches near other fragments can have high species richness.
B. Species richness will depend on fragment size  - Correct
Larger fragments generally support more species due to greater habitat diversity, larger populations → less extinction risk. This is supported by island biogeography theory.
C. Species richness will depend on physical connectivity between fragments  - Correct
Connectivity allows species to move between patches (gene flow, migration). Corridors or proximity can reduce effects of isolation and increase species persistence.
D. Species richness cannot be compared between large and small fragments - Incorrect
Species richness can be compared across fragments and is routinely done in ecology.

Correct Answer:

Option b - B and C