Which clause in the US Constitution first limited market hunting of wildlife and fostered federal protection of wildlife species?

The Commerce Clause is the correct choice as it provides Congress with the authority to regulate interstate commerce, which includes the trade and transportation of wildlife. This clause has been interpreted to give federal lawmakers the ability to implement regulations that can limit market hunting practices that pose a threat to wildlife populations. By establishing federal oversight, the Commerce Clause fosters protections for various wildlife species, ensuring that states cannot unilaterally exploit animals that migrate across state lines or are part of interstate ecosystems.

The other options represent different powers or clauses that do not directly address market hunting or wildlife protection. The Police Power pertains to state authority over public health, safety, and morals, which does not extend to regulating interstate wildlife commerce. The Taking Clause involves property rights and just compensation issues when government action takes private property for public use, but does not directly relate to wildlife hunting regulations. The Reserved Powers Clause pertains to powers not delegated to the federal government, which are retained by the states, but again, this doesn't specifically address the wildlife protection aspect in relation to market hunting.