What was the most direct result of shrinking pastures for pastoralists?

Correct answer: It became difficult to get enough fodder for animals

The direct answer is A: it became difficult to obtain enough fodder for animals. A pasture is land where animals can graze. Fodder includes grass, leaves and other feed given to livestock. Pastoralists maintain their livelihood through herds, so the amount and quality of available grazing land directly affect the animals. Step by step: pastures shrink; less grass and plant material is available; animals receive less food or must travel farther; herd maintenance becomes difficult. Option A is correct because it states the immediate effect of pasture loss. Option B is wrong because less food normally creates difficulty, not universal better health. Option C is wrong because a shortage of pasture does not automatically cancel taxes. Option D is wrong because forests did not necessarily open fully; in fact, colonial policies often restricted them. The exam cue is simple: shrinking pasture means shortage of fodder and pressure on livestock.