Which of the following is an ecosystem service provided by a natural ecosystem?
1. Cycling of nutrients
2. Prevention of soil erosion
3. Pollutant absorption and reduction of the threat of gloobal warming
4. All of the above

Options

A. Cycling of nutrients
B. Prevention of soil erosion
C. Pollutant absorption and reduction of the threat of gloobal warming
D. All of the above

Answer

D

Explanation

The products of ecosystem processes which have environmental, aesthetic and indirect economic value are named as ecosystem services. Soil formation and soil protection are the major ecosystem services accounting for nearly 50 % of theirtotal worth. Plant cover prodtects the soil from drastic changes in temperature. There is little wind or water erosion as soil particles are not exposed to them. The soil remains spongy and fertile. There are no landslides and no floods. Plant cover of natural ecosystem absorbs polluting gases, causes settling of suspended particulate matter, removes `CO_(2)` and releases `O_(2)`. Purified air becomes available. There is no overall depletion of nutrients as the same are repeatedly circulated and recirculated. This keeps the fertility of soil intact.