Which of the following practices is important for gopher tortoise habitat improvement?

The practice of prescribed fire is vital for gopher tortoise habitat improvement because it helps maintain and enhance the ecosystems where these tortoises thrive. Gopher tortoises require open, sandy habitats that allow for the growth of specific vegetation types, such as grasses and herbs, which is often achieved through controlled burning. Prescribed fire mimics natural fire regimes that historically occurred in these environments, promoting the health of the ecosystem by reducing dense underbrush and stimulating new plant growth.

This increased plant diversity not only provides food for gopher tortoises but also creates suitable nesting and burrowing conditions. Fire can help control invasive species that may disrupt the balance of the ecosystem and negatively impact the gopher tortoise's habitat. By managing the landscape in this way, prescribed burning is an effective conservation tool aimed at ensuring the survival of gopher tortoises and the overall biodiversity of their habitat.