What is the impact of climate change on aquatic pest populations?

The correct answer emphasizes that climate change can lead to an expansion of the range of invasive species. As temperatures rise and precipitation patterns shift due to climate change, aquatic environments can become more conducive to the growth and spread of invasive pests. These species often thrive in warmer waters and can occupy new habitats that were previously inhospitable. This expansion is facilitated by altered nutrient cycles, changes in species interactions, and the availability of new aquatic environments that support their reproduction and survival.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately capture the broader trends and dynamics associated with climate change and aquatic ecosystems. For instance, while it is possible that some local conditions may reduce pest reproduction rates, the overall trend in many cases has been an increase in pest populations in various regions. Similarly, while habitat availability may be reduced in certain cases due to factors like drought or habitat degradation, climate change can also create new habitats by altering existing environments, potentially increasing the available niches for some invasive species. Finally, climate change is more likely to destabilize rather than stabilize aquatic habitats, as fluctuations in temperature and water levels can lead to disrupted ecological balances.