______is the exploration of molecular, genetic and species-level diversity for gaining the products of economic importance.
(a) Exploitation
(b) Bioprospecting
(c) Co-extinction
(d) Patenting

Options

A. Exploitation
B. Bioprospecting
C. Co-extinction
D. Patenting

Explanation

To solve the question, we need to identify the term that best fits the definition provided: "the exploration of molecular, genetic and species-level diversity for gaining the products of economic importance."

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Question**: The question is asking for a specific term that describes the exploration of various levels of biodiversity for economic products.

2. **Analyze the Options**:
- **(a) Exploitation**: This refers to the use of resources, often leading to negative consequences like extinction. It does not specifically refer to exploration for economic products.
- **(b) Bioprospecting**: This term specifically refers to the exploration of biodiversity (molecular, genetic, and species-level) to find products of economic importance. This fits the definition given in the question.
- **(c) Co-extinction**: This is about the extinction of species that are interdependent. It does not relate to the exploration for economic products.
- **(d) Patenting**: This involves legal rights over inventions or products, not the exploration of biodiversity.

3. **Select the Correct Answer**: Based on the analysis, the term that matches the definition given in the question is **(b) Bioprospecting**.

### Final Answer:
**(b) Bioprospecting**

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