This study is simply another example of the many ways in which the well developed natural order of the rainforests are disrupted by habitat fragmentation, leading to decreased population fitness and the possibility of extinction. Abiotic factors, which in turn impact biotic factors, are also effected by tropical rainforest fragmentation. This change not only increases the effects of global warming it also decreases the output of one of the most productive ecosystems on the planet. Statisticians predict that the world population will double in the next 41 years. With 12 million people inhabiting the Earth it will be more important than ever to find a balance between sustaining the human race and conserving the environment we exploit.
Forest fragmentation is a serious problem that is becoming an inevitable part of our expansion.
Though it may be difficult to stop entirely there are ways to minimize the disruption that fragmentation has on these ecosystems. Researchers have discovered that the spatial pattern of clearing can have a major impact of fragmentation effects. Conserving valuable environmental resources, like the rainforests, is not only our responsibility it is also necessary for our continued existence on this planet. Kelt, D. 2000. Small mammal communities in rainforest fragments in Chile.