A student researching biodiversity has taken notes:

• Biodiversity includes genetic, species, and ecosystem variety • Diverse ecosystems are more resilient to disturbance • Many medicines derive from natural compounds • Ecosystem services include pollination and water purification • Current extinction rates are 1,000 times natural levels

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The student wants to explain why biodiversity matters to humans.

A

Current extinction rates are 1,000 times higher than natural background levels.

B

Biodiversity matters because it provides essential services like pollination and water purification, medicines from natural compounds, and resilient ecosystems that support human wellbeing.

C

Biodiversity encompasses genetic, species, and ecosystem variety.

D

Diverse ecosystems are more resilient to environmental disturbance.

Correct Answer: B

Choice B. Services, medicines, and resilience explain human importance.