Which phenomenon could lead to the scarcity of certain medicinal plants?

The scarcity of certain medicinal plants can indeed be attributed to climate change effects. As climate change alters temperature patterns, precipitation, and seasonal cycles, it can disrupt the natural habitats where these plants grow. Many medicinal plants are adapted to specific climate conditions, and significant changes in their environment can lead to decreased populations or even extinction. Additionally, climate change may make these plants less viable in areas where they previously thrived, forcing them to move to new regions or adapt in ways that may not be possible.

In contrast, while increased agricultural practices and urbanization can negatively impact certain habitats, these factors typically do not apply specifically to medicinal plants in the same way that climatic shifts can. Enhanced cultivation techniques tend to improve the yield and availability of plants rather than contribute to scarcity. Thus, climate change's direct impact on environmental conditions makes it a crucial factor in the reduction of medicinal plant populations.