Question

Which of the following is an ecosystem service provided by a natural ecosystem?

• A. Cycling of nutrients
• B. Prevention of soil erosion
• C. Pollutant absorption and reduction of the threat of global warming
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

The products of ecosystem processes which have environmental aesthetic and indirect economic value are named as ecosystem services. Soil formation and soil protection are the major ecosystem services accounting for nearly 50% of their total worth. Plant cover protects the soil from drastic changes in temperature. There is little wind or water erosion as soil particles are not exposed to them. The soil remains spongy and fertile. There are no landslides and no floods. The plant cover of natural ecosystem absorbs polluting gases, causes settling of suspended particulate matter, removes CO2 and releases O2. Purified air becomes available. There is no overall depletion of nutrients as the same as repeatedly circulated and recirculated. This keeps the fertility of soil intact.

So, the correct answer 'All of the above'.