What does ecosystem service refer to? Select True or False for each statement.


T/FBenefits that humans derive from organisms and ecosystems.
T/FBenefits that non-human animals derive from their prey.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'ecosystem service'. Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans obtain from ecosystems. These include provisioning services like food and water; regulating services such as flood and disease control; cultural services like spiritual, recreational, and cultural benefits; and supporting services such as nutrient cycling that maintain the conditions for life on Earth.
2. Analyze the first statement: 'Benefits that humans derive from organisms and ecosystems.' Since ecosystem services are defined as benefits humans obtain from ecosystems, this statement aligns with the definition of ecosystem services.
3. Evaluate the second statement: 'Benefits that non-human animals derive from their prey.' This statement refers to the interactions within the food web where one organism consumes another for survival, which is different from the concept of ecosystem services that specifically benefits humans.
4. Determine the truth value of the first statement based on its alignment with the definition of ecosystem services.
5. Determine the truth value of the second statement based on its relevance to the specific benefits humans derive from ecosystem services.

Key Concepts

Ecosystem Services

Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans obtain from ecosystems, which include provisioning services like food and water, regulating services such as climate regulation, cultural services like recreational opportunities, and supporting services that maintain the conditions for life on Earth. These services are essential for human well-being and economic activities.

Human Benefits from Ecosystems

Humans derive numerous benefits from ecosystems, including resources like timber, fish, and clean water, as well as services that regulate environmental conditions, such as pollination of crops and purification of air and water. Understanding these benefits is crucial for recognizing the value of biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Non-Human Animal Interactions

While non-human animals do interact with their ecosystems and derive benefits, such as food from prey, this concept is distinct from ecosystem services, which specifically refer to benefits to humans. Non-human animals play roles in ecosystems that can indirectly support human services, but their benefits are not classified as ecosystem services.