A student researching the Amazon rainforest has taken the following notes:
• The Amazon produces approximately 20% of the world's oxygen • It spans nine countries in South America • The rainforest contains about 10% of all species on Earth • Deforestation has reduced the Amazon by about 17% since 1970 • Indigenous communities have inhabited the region for thousands of years
The student wants to emphasize the Amazon's ecological importance. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
Indigenous communities have called the Amazon rainforest home for thousands of years, living across nine South American countries.
Since 1970, deforestation has reduced the Amazon rainforest by approximately 17 percent.
The Amazon rainforest produces about 20% of Earth's oxygen and harbors 10% of all species, making it ecologically vital.
The Amazon spans nine countries in South America and has experienced significant deforestation since 1970.
Correct Answer: C
Choice C. Oxygen production and species diversity demonstrate ecological importance.