In an introductory ecology framework (e.g., Millennium Ecosystem Assessment), which set correctly lists the four major categories of ecosystem services?

• A. Biotic, abiotic, atmospheric, and geological services
• B. Primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary services
• C. Provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services
• D. Photosynthetic, chemosynthetic, detrital, and parasitic services

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of ecosystem services, which are the benefits humans receive from ecosystems that support life and human well-being.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment categorizes ecosystem services into four major types based on their functions and benefits.
3. Step 3: Identify the four categories as Provisioning services (products obtained from ecosystems), Regulating services (benefits from regulation of ecosystem processes), Cultural services (non-material benefits like recreation and spiritual value), and Supporting services (services necessary for the production of all other ecosystem services, such as nutrient cycling).
4. Step 4: Compare the given options to see which set matches these four categories exactly.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct set is Provisioning, Regulating, Cultural, and Supporting services, as this aligns with the widely accepted framework in ecology.