Question

which of the following statements provides the best evidence that loss of wetlands has resulted in the loss of ecosystem services? choose 1 answer: a fewer wetlands to filter water has affected the cycling of nutrients in the environment. b loss of wetlands has resulted in a loss of both aquatic and terrestrial wildlife habitats. c loss of wetlands has affected the wetlands’ capacity to maintain the water table. d loss of wetland vegetation to hold shorelines intact has resulted in the loss of valuable land.

Explanation:

Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans receive from ecosystems. Wetlands play a crucial role in nutrient - cycling by filtering water. When there are fewer wetlands, the ability to filter water and cycle nutrients is affected, which is a clear loss of an ecosystem service. While options B, C, and D mention important ecological impacts of wetland loss, they are not as directly related to the concept of ecosystem services as nutrient - cycling.

Answer:

A. Fewer wetlands to filter water has affected the cycling of nutrients in the environment.