Which of the following represent maximum number of species among global biodiversity?

Options

A. Mosses and Ferns
B. Algae
C. Lichens
D. Fungi

Answer

To determine which group represents the maximum number of species among global biodiversity, we will analyze each option provided:

1. **Mosses and Ferns**:
- Mosses: Approximately 12,000 species.
- Ferns: Approximately 20,000 species.
- Total for Mosses and Ferns: 12,000 + 20,000 = 32,000 species.

2. **Algae**:
- The number of species of algae is estimated to be around 30,000 to more than 1,000,000 species. For our comparison, we will consider the upper limit, which is over 1,000,000 species.

3. **Lichens**:
- The number of species of lichens is approximately between 13,500 to 17,000 species. We can take an average of this range, which is about 15,250 species.

4. **Fungi**:
- The estimated number of species of fungi is around 148,000, with a variation that could reach approximately 3.8 million species.

Now, let's summarize the findings:
- Mosses and Ferns: 32,000 species
- Algae: Over 1,000,000 species
- Lichens: Approximately 15,250 species
- Fungi: Approximately 3.8 million species

From the above analysis, we can see that fungi have the highest estimated number of species, with a potential range that reaches up to 3.8 million.

**Conclusion**: The group that represents the maximum number of species among global biodiversity is **Fungi**.

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