Read the given passage and answer the six questions that follow.

The Human Genome Project

Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, birds and bats, are essential for the ecosystem, health and human food security. They facilitate plant reproduction by transferring pollen between flowers, enabling the production of seeds and fruits crucial for plant biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

This mutualistic relationship supports global food production, with approximately 75% of leading food crops relying on animal pollination. Pollinators contribute to the diversity and abundance of flowering plants in natural ecosystems, providing habitat and food resources for various organisms.

Despite their importance, pollinators face significant threats. Habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture and deforestation reduces nesting sites and floral resources. Pesticide exposure, especially insecticides and climate change further endanger pollinator populations by poisoning them and disrupting their behaviour and reproductive patterns.

To safeguard pollinators and ecosystems, concerted action is necessary. This includes protecting and restoring pollinator habitats, adopting pollinator-friendly agricultural practices, reducing pesticide use and raising public awareness about the crucial role of pollinators.

By addressing these challenges, we can ensure the sustainability of ecosystems, biodiversity and food production systems, securing a healthier future for both nature and humanity.

Choose a word from the options given below to replace the underlined word.

Deforestation reduces nesting sites.

sheltering

The correct answer is Option (4) → sheltering

Explanation:

The word "sheltering" fits best as it refers to providing a safe or protective space, which aligns with the idea of nesting sites being reduced by deforestation. The other options do not convey the same meaning in the context of the sentence.

• Option 1: building- The word "building" refers to the act of constructing something. While animals may "build" their nests, in this context, it doesn't convey the idea of a safe or protective space that is reduced by deforestation. "Sheltering" is more appropriate because it specifically refers to providing a safe place or habitat.

• Option 3: reproducing- "Reproducing" refers to the process of creating offspring, not to the location or environment where animals live or nest. This makes it unrelated to the concept of nesting sites, where animals seek refuge or raise their young.

• Option 4: protecting- While "protecting" might seem related, it refers more to the act of keeping something safe rather than the space or area itself. "Sheltering" fits better because it directly refers to the type of environment (a nesting site) that offers safety or protection.