Which factors are known to contribute to the loss of biodiversity?

The loss of biodiversity is significantly influenced by habitat destruction and pollution. Habitat destruction refers to the alteration or elimination of natural environments, typically due to human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion. When habitats are destroyed, the species that rely on those environments for survival can become endangered or extinct, leading to a reduction in biodiversity.

Pollution acts as another major contributor by contaminating air, water, and soil, which can harm organisms directly or disrupt their habitats. For instance, pollutants can lead to the degradation of ecosystems, affecting species survival rates and their ability to reproduce.

In contrast, factors like climate stability and natural disasters can influence biodiversity, but they do not typically lead to a consistent pattern of loss as habitat destruction and pollution do. Increased genetic diversity and conservation efforts are usually associated with positive outcomes for biodiversity rather than contributing to its loss. Urban development and improved agriculture can lead to biodiversity loss mainly through habitat destruction and the use of pesticides or fertilizers, but they are not as direct or comprehensive in their impact as habitat destruction and pollution. Therefore, the correct answer focuses on the clear and direct actions leading to biodiversity decline.