Understanding the Importance of Biodiversity
Listen carefully to the following lecture excerpt:
Today we're going to discuss the significance of biodiversity in ecosystems. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is essential for the resilience of ecosystems. Firstly, it contributes to ecosystem productivity, allowing various species to thrive and perform different ecosystem functions. Furthermore, biodiversity is fundamental in providing ecosystem services, which include but are not limited to purifying air and water, maintaining soil fertility, and pollination of plants.
In addition to functionality, biodiversity also plays a role in the cultural value. Many cultures have specific relationships with particular species; these connections can provide local communities with food, traditional medicine, and economic resources. Lastly, we can’t overlook the impact of climate change on biodiversity. As habitats change, some species are forced to adapt or face extinction, leading to a loss of biodiversity that can disrupt ecological balance.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
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