Why should humans be concerned about the rarity of species in an ecosystem?

• A. The rarity of species has no effect on human well-being or ecosystem health.
• B. Only common species are important for maintaining ecological balance.
• C. Rare species always have negative impacts on ecosystem functioning and should be eliminated.
• D. Rare species contribute to ecosystem stability and biodiversity, which are essential for ecosystem services that humans rely on.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of ecosystem stability and biodiversity: Ecosystem stability refers to the ability of an ecosystem to maintain its structure and function over time, even in the face of disturbances. Biodiversity is the variety of life forms within an ecosystem, including rare species, which play unique roles in maintaining ecological balance.
2. Recognize the importance of rare species: Rare species often contribute to critical ecological processes, such as nutrient cycling, pollination, and seed dispersal. Their presence can enhance the resilience of ecosystems by providing redundancy in ecological functions.
3. Connect ecosystem services to human well-being: Ecosystem services are the benefits humans derive from ecosystems, such as clean air, water, food, and climate regulation. Rare species contribute to these services by supporting the overall health and functionality of ecosystems.
4. Debunk misconceptions about rarity: The idea that rare species have no effect or negative impacts on ecosystems is incorrect. Rare species often play specialized roles that cannot be replaced by common species, making them vital for maintaining ecological balance.
5. Conclude with the significance of conservation: Protecting rare species helps preserve biodiversity, which is essential for sustaining ecosystem services that humans depend on for survival and quality of life.