SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Practice Exam

What is indicated to be a greater threat to underwater plants and animals?

1. Natural disasters

2. Human activities

3. Water pollution

4. Weather changes

The correct answer is: Human activities

Human activities are recognized as a more significant threat to underwater plants and animals due to their direct and often destructive impact on aquatic ecosystems. These activities include overfishing, habitat destruction, coastal development, and the introduction of invasive species, all of which can lead to loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecological balance. Unlike natural disasters, which occur sporadically and might allow for some ecological recovery, human actions are often persistent and can lead to long-term degradation of marine environments. For example, pollution from human sources can exacerbate the effects of these activities, leading to suffering ecosystems. While water pollution contributes to the degradation of aquatic environments, it is ultimately a consequence of human activities, underscoring how interconnected these issues are. Weather changes can affect ecosystems as well, but they do not typically present as immediate threats as direct actions taken by humans do. Understanding the impact of human activities emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts and responsible interaction with aquatic environments to protect these valuable ecosystems effectively.