Final Answer:
The sentences that best support the statement that Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai developed a thriving ecosystem are:
1. "But in 2020, the island was not only still around, but had developed a thriving ecosystem."
2. "From above, much of the dark gray island is now lush and green, and birds, such as owls and seagulls, make it their home."
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement about Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai developing a thriving ecosystem is corroborated by two specific sentences from the text. The sentence "But in 2020, the island was not only still around, but had developed a thriving ecosystem" explicitly states that by 2020, the island not only persisted but also flourished with a thriving ecosystem. This sentence directly supports the notion that the island had evolved and fostered a flourishing environment.
Additionally, the sentence "From above, much of the dark gray island is now lush and green, and birds, such as owls and seagulls, make it their home" further reinforces the idea of the island's transformation. This sentence vividly describes the island's change from a dark, gray terrain to a lush, green landscape. It also mentions the presence of birds making the island their habitat, indicating the development of a diverse ecosystem.
These two sentences serve as clear evidence within the text, explicitly showcasing the transformation of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai from a barren, black gravel-covered island to one with a thriving and diverse ecosystem, supporting the assertion made in the initial statement. The textual evidence directly highlights the island's remarkable evolution over time, substantiating the claim of its flourishing ecosystem.