The most serious consequence of a decrease in global biodiversity would be the
A) increase in global warming and thinning of the ozone layer.
B) potential loss of ecosystem services on which people depend.
C) increase in the abundance and diversity of edge-adapted species.
D) loss of source of genetic diversity to preserve endangered species.
E) loss of species for "bioprospecting."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Biodiversity provides important ecosystem services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and water regulation. The loss of these services could have serious impacts on human well-being, including food security and access to clean water.

Answer: D
 Biodiversity provides a source of genetic diversity that can be used to preserve endangered species through breeding programs or genetic modification. The loss of biodiversity would reduce the availability of these genetic resources, making it harder to protect and restore threatened species.

Answer: E
 Bioprospecting is the search for new drugs and other products derived from natural sources. Biodiversity is a key source of new compounds for bioprospecting, so a decrease in biodiversity would reduce the potential for discovering new therapeutic agents.

The Most Serious Consequence of a Decrease in Global Biodiversity