What is one negative impact of fish farming on local ecosystems?

Habitat alteration is a significant negative impact of fish farming on local ecosystems because fish farms often require the modification of natural habitats. This can include the clearing of coastal areas, mangroves, or wetlands to create ponds or enclosures for fish cultivation. Such alterations can disrupt local wildlife and plant communities, potentially leading to a decline in native species and a decrease in overall biodiversity. The changes in the environment can also affect the water quality and natural resources in the area, resulting in longer-term ecological consequences.

In contrast, increased biodiversity, enhanced water clarity, and reduced fish feeding do not accurately reflect the outcomes associated with fish farming. Generally, fish farming tends to reduce biodiversity and can lead to murkier water due to nutrient loading and waste from the farmed fish. Moreover, fish feeding is typically controlled to optimize growth and production, rather than being reduced. Thus, these options do not represent the negative ecological implications of fish farming in the same way that habitat alteration does.