Final answer:
If human activities reduce biodiversity in orchards and farms, there will be a decrease in (A) soil fertility and crop yield, (B)air quality and water purification, as well as (C) timber production and habitat for wildlife.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ecosystem goods and ecosystem services that would decrease if human activities reduced biodiversity in orchards and farms would include:
- Soil fertility and crop yield: Biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining soil health and nutrient cycling, which are essential for crop growth and productivity. Reduction in biodiversity can result in reduced soil fertility and lower crop yields.
- Air quality and water purification: Biodiversity helps in filtering and purifying air and water. It plays a significant role in maintaining the quality of these resources, and reducing biodiversity can lead to a decline in air quality and water purification.
- Timber production and habitat for wildlife: Biodiversity in orchards and farms provides habitats for various wildlife species. Reduction in biodiversity can result in the loss of timber production and habitats for wildlife.
If human activities were to reduce the biodiversity in orchards and farms, we could expect a decrease in both ecosystem goods and ecosystem services. A reduction in biodiversity can lead to declines in soil fertility and crop yield due to disruption of nutrient cycling and pest control that are part of the natural ecosystem services. Additionally, air quality and water purification services are dependent on the presence of a diverse range of plants, microorganisms, and insects, all of which can be affected by decreases in biodiversity. This encompasses the role of organisms in breaking down organic matter, maintaining soil texture, and facilitating water and oxygen dynamics which are crucial for plant growth.