What is a primary consequence of rising sea levels?

The primary consequence of rising sea levels is the loss of coastal habitats. As sea levels rise, areas that were previously dry land or coastal habitats become submerged, leading to the destruction of ecosystems such as wetlands, mangroves, and sea grass beds. These habitats are crucial for many species of wildlife and provide essential services such as storm protection, water filtration, and carbon sequestration.

The submergence of these coastal areas also impacts human communities by increasing flooding risks and limiting access to resources. Loss of habitat can lead to reduced biodiversity, as species that depend on these areas may struggle to survive or adapt to changing conditions.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary impacts of rising sea levels. Increased biodiversity is generally not a result of habitat loss; rather, it often leads to decreased biodiversity. Enhanced agricultural land is unlikely to occur in low-lying coastal areas that are becoming inundated with seawater. Improved water quality is also unlikely, as rising sea levels can lead to more saltwater intrusion into freshwater systems, negatively impacting water quality.