Question

review the text.
the amazon river basin is home to several species of river dolphins, also called botos. in 2014, a group of scientists headed by biologist tomas hrbek published a study announcing the discovery of a new river dolphin species.
the study concluded that dolphins found in the araguaia river in brazil are distinct from their cousins elsewhere in the amazon. the araguaian botos share some characteristics with other amazon dolphins, like a long, toothy beak and pink-gray skin. however, araguaian botos appear to have a different number of teeth, unique skull features, and slightly different dna.
not everyone is convinced, though. hrbek’s team could examine only a few animals, and critics argue that more specimens need to be studied. if the studys findings are confirmed, however, the araguaian boto would be the first new river dolphin species discovered in almost a hundred years!
which best shows that the author’s purpose is to inform readers about the possible discovery of a new river dolphin species in the amazon?
the author creates excitement around the fact that the discovery could be the first one in almost a hundred years.
the author describes the characteristics of amazon dolphins, such as pink - gray skin.
the author provides facts about the study, including when it was published and what it shows about araguaian dolphins.

Explanation:

The author presents factual details about the study (e.g., year published, findings about Araguaian dolphins) which is characteristic of an informative purpose. Creating excitement (first discovery in almost a hundred years) leans more towards persuasion/evoking emotion rather than pure information. Describing general Amazon dolphin characteristics (like pink - gray skin) is too broad and not specifically focused on the possible new species discovery as the main informative point.

Answer:

The author provides facts about the study, including when it was published and what it shows about Araguaian dolphins.