Virologist Dr. James Wong argues that viruses can actually benefit ecosystems by controlling bacterial populations and facilitating nutrient cycling, challenging their purely negative reputation.
Which ecological evidence would best support Wong's positive framing?
Viruses are abundant in ocean water
Some viruses infect bacteria
Vaccine technology has improved
Ocean viruses kill 20-40% of marine bacteria daily, releasing nutrients that feed phytoplankton responsible for 50% of Earth's oxygen production; without this viral activity, nutrient cycles would collapse
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Specific mechanism: viruses → bacterial control → nutrient release → oxygen production.
- Context clues: Wong claims viruses "benefit ecosystems."
- Evidence evaluation: 20-40% bacterial control + 50% oxygen link proves essential role.
- Verify: "Cycles would collapse" shows viruses aren't just helpful but necessary.
💡 Strategy: Reframing claims need evidence of positive function, not just presence.