Final answer:
The increase in human population contributes to habitat destruction, unsustainable resource use, and competition for resources, all of which can lead to declines in animal species populations and biodiversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Human population growth impacts animal species in several significant ways, leading predominantly to detrimental effects. The correct answer to the student's question is C. many animal extinctions have been related to human population growth in some way. The increase in human population results in habitat destruction, unsustainable resource use, and overfishing and hunting, which can seriously threaten animal populations. Additionally, with every individual added to the human population, there's less food available for other species, leading to a decrease in biodiversity and even potential extinction for some animal species.
As the human population continues to grow, it competes more with animals for food and space, often resulting in habitat conversion for agriculture and development. These activities, alongside pollution and climate change due to excessive use of fossil fuels, contribute to a reduction in animal population sizes. Unfortunately, the situation is exacerbated by the fact that larger human populations typically lead to increased waste production, further impacting animal habitats and biodiversity.