Understanding Human Impact on Ecosystems

What is the primary reason ecosystems need to remain intact?

• To enhance urban development

• To maintain recreational spaces

• To ensure the provision of ecosystem services

• To increase agricultural output

Which category of ecosystem services includes the formation of new soils?

• Cultural services

• Support services

• Regulating services

• Provisioning services

How does high biodiversity contribute to an ecosystem's resilience?

• It increases economic benefits

• It enhances aesthetic value

• It reduces the risk of ecosystem collapse

• It simplifies management practices

What is a direct consequence of deforestation?

• Improved soil fertility

• Increased biodiversity

• Enhanced water runoff and erosion

• Reduced air pollution

What role do fungi play in ecosystems?

• They capture solar energy

• They produce atmospheric oxygen

• They decompose organic material

• They increase water runoff

Which human activity contributes to desertification?

• Increased use of renewable energy

• Reduction of industrial activities

• Over-irrigation

• Afforestation

What is the estimated cost if humans had to perform all ecosystem services?

• $66 trillion/year

• $66 billion/year

• $46 trillion/year

• $46 billion/year

What impact does introducing nonnative species typically have on ecosystems?

• They reduce pollution

• They disrupt local species

• They increase genetic diversity

• They stabilize the ecosystem

What is a major driver of global warming according to the video?

• Decreased use of fossil fuels

• Reduction in forest size and increased greenhouse gases

• Reduction in agricultural activities

• Expansion of polar ice caps

What is the primary effect of pollution on ecosystems?

• It increases biodiversity

• It disrupts ecosystem balance

• It promotes species adaptation

• It enhances ecosystem resilience