Biology Regents Practice Exam

What is a consequence of deforestation in rain forests?

1. Loss of fossil fuels that could be used by industry.

2. Release of excess carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

3. Release of chemicals which cause helpful mutations.

4. Loss of genetic material available for research.

The correct answer is: Loss of genetic material available for research.

Deforestation in rainforests leads to significant ecological and biological consequences, one of which is the loss of genetic material available for research. Forests, particularly tropical rainforests, are incredibly rich in biodiversity. They host numerous plant and animal species, many of which may not yet be discovered or studied. Each species contains unique genetic information that could be vital for various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and conservation. When deforestation occurs, these species and their genetic material are lost, which can severely limit scientific research. The loss of genetic diversity can also affect ecological balance and resilience, making ecosystems more vulnerable to disease and climate change. This reduction in biodiversity affects not only current research opportunities but also future potential discoveries that could be beneficial to humanity. While the other options address important environmental issues, they do not capture the essence of the biological consequences related to the loss of genetic material stemming from rainforest deforestation.