Final answer:
Habitat loss is significant as it leads to species extinction and ecosystem disruption, primarily caused by human activities like agriculture and urban development, particularly in the tropics with high biodiversity rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding why habitat loss is important involves recognizing its profound impact on biodiversity and the health of ecosystems globally. The alteration or destruction of habitats, like forests or wetlands, leads to species extinction and disrupts the delicate balance of the environment. For example, the loss of tropical forests which occurs at an alarming rate of up to 130,000 km² a year, results in the displacement or decimation of countless plant and animal populations. Additionally, human activities such as agriculture, mining, and urban development are major drivers of habitat destruction, especially in the tropics where the rate of biodiversity is exceptionally high. With the extinction of species and the transformation of ecosystems, understanding and mitigating habitat loss is crucial for the sustainability of life on our planet.