Final answer:
The habitat is a key component of wildlife survival, incorporating other essential elements such as sunlight, water, and air. Land plants mainly get their water from rain, and soil provides antimicrobial compounds crucial for the survival of different species. Habitat destruction due to human activity significantly impacts biodiversity and species survival.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wildlife survival depends primarily on several major ingredients, including sunlight, water, habitat, and air. However, if we have to choose one, the habitat is crucial as it encompasses the availability of sunlight, water, the right temperature range, and air — all of which are vital abiotic factors for an organism's survival. In particular, the habitat determines the specific needs and adaptations required for a species to thrive, including the presence of fresh water, available nutrients, and adequate shelter from the elements and predators.
For example, the water source for land plants is primarily obtained through rainfall, which percolates into the soil where plant roots absorb it along with essential nutrients. On the other hand, soil has been found to yield compounds with antimicrobial activity, which is vital for controlling the spread of diseases in plants and animals. Lastly, changes in human population and land use patterns can lead to habitat destruction, consequently affecting biodiversity and the continued existence of various species.