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the introduction of exotic species into residual natural environments. Thave said that a
fifth or more of the species of plants and animals could vanish or be doomed to early extinction by the year
2020 unless better efforts are made to save them. . . . As the last forests are felled [destroyed] in forest
strongholds like the Philippines and Ecuador, the decline of species will accelerate even more. In the world
as a whole, extinction rates are already hundreds or thousands of times higher than before the coming of
man. They cannot be balanced by new evolution in any period of time that has meaning for the human race.
Why should we care? What difference does it make if some species are extinguished, if even half of all the
species on earth disappear? Let me count the ways. New sources of scientific information will be lost. Vast
potential biological wealth will be destroyed. Still undeveloped medicines, crops, pharmaceuticals, timber,
fibers, pulp, soil-restoring vegetation, petroleum substitutes, and other products and amenities will never
come to light.
Based on the excerpt, which statement best summarizes the author's beliefs about the disappearing species?
The loss of plant species and habitats will lead to widespread animal extinction.
O The loss of plant species and habitats will lead to environmental problems in remote regions.
The loss of plant species and habitats will displace animals and decrease human wealth.
O The loss of plant species and habitats will devastate animals and hinder human progress.
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Answer :

In the excerpt provided, the author expresses concerns about the impact of disappearing species on the environment and human society. The statement that best summarizes the author's beliefs about the disappearing species is:

"The loss of plant species and habitats will devastate animals and hinder human progress."

Explanation:
1. The author highlights that the introduction of exotic species into natural environments is leading to the extinction of many plant and animal species.
2. The author warns that unless efforts are made to save these species, a significant portion could vanish or face early extinction by 2020.
3. The decline of species will accelerate as forests are destroyed in places like the Philippines and Ecuador, leading to a faster rate of extinction.
4. The author emphasizes that the extinction rates are already significantly higher due to human activities and cannot be balanced by new evolution within a meaningful timeframe for humanity.
5. The consequences of losing these species are outlined, including the loss of scientific information, destruction of biological wealth, and the potential hindrance to discovering new medicines, crops, and other valuable resources.

Therefore, the author's belief is that the loss of plant species and habitats will have a devastating impact on animals and will hinder human progress by depriving society of valuable resources and opportunities for advancement.