Question

select the true statement regarding earth’s biodiversity.
○ vertebrate species are the dominant group making up more than 90%
of all identified species.
○ estimates of earth’s total number of species range widely from 5 to 15
billion.
○ tropical regions have greater species richness than other areas of the
globe.
○ none of these are correct.

Explanation:

• Analyze the first option: In reality, invertebrates (not vertebrates) make up the vast majority (more than 90%) of identified species. So this statement is false.
• Analyze the second option: Estimates of Earth's total number of species typically range from about 5 to 100 million (not 5 to 15 billion). So this statement is false.
• Analyze the third option: Tropical regions have higher species richness due to factors like stable climate, high productivity, and complex ecosystems. This statement is true.
• The fourth option is incorrect as the third option is correct.

Answer:

C. Tropical regions have greater species richness than other areas of the globe.