What is a consequence of overfishing on marine ecosystems?

The correct answer highlights a significant environmental issue associated with overfishing: the depletion of fish populations. Overfishing occurs when fish are caught at a rate faster than they can reproduce, leading to a dramatic reduction in their numbers over time. This depletion can have cascading effects on marine ecosystems.

When fish populations decline, it disrupts the balance of the food web, as many marine species rely on fish as a primary food source. Additionally, the loss of fish can impact the livelihoods of communities that depend on fishing, affect biodiversity within the ecosystem, and alter habitats.

The other options suggest scenarios that are either contrary to the reality of overfishing or misinterpret its ecological effects. Overfishing does not lead to an increase in fish populations or enhancement of biodiversity; instead, it compromises these aspects of marine life. Likewise, overfishing is unlikely to stabilize food webs; rather, it creates instability as various species either decline or become overabundant in the absence of natural predators. This imbalance ultimately jeopardizes the resilience of marine ecosystems.