What is a primary impact of water insecurity on crops and livestock?

Water insecurity has significant implications for agriculture, particularly for crops and livestock. When water resources are limited or unpredictable, the ability to adequately irrigate crops diminishes. This leads to reduced growth rates, lower yields, and potentially crop failure. The lack of sufficient water can stress plants, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases, which further detracts from productivity.

For livestock, water is essential not only for drinking but also for various metabolic processes. Insufficient water supply can lead to dehydration and health issues in animals, ultimately resulting in higher mortality rates. Livestock rely on adequate water to maintain milk production and overall health, so water insecurity directly contributes to reduced livestock populations and productivity.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the implications of water insecurity. Improved crop yields, increased biodiversity, and enhanced soil quality cannot be linked to water insecurity; instead, they typically require sufficient water availability for support. Therefore, the primary impact of water insecurity is the detrimental effect on both crops and livestock, leading to reduced outputs and health issues.