Today in our environmental science lecture, we're discussing the impact of urban development on local ecosystems. One key example is the construction of a new highway near the city of Greenfield. Researchers found that the noise pollution from the highway reduced the breeding success of local bird species by nearly 40%. To mitigate this, they installed sound barriers along the road. Interestingly, the barriers also increased the diversity of plant life nearby because they altered wind patterns, which helped spread seeds. However, the study noted that the barriers were less effective for ground-nesting birds, as they still faced habitat fragmentation. So, while sound barriers are helpful, they are not a complete solution.
❓ According to the lecture, what was the main benefit of installing sound barriers along the highway?
A. A) They completely solved the problem of habitat fragmentation for all bird species.
B. B) They increased the breeding success of local bird species by reducing noise pollution.
C. C) They improved plant diversity by changing wind patterns that spread seeds.
D. D) They provided nesting sites for ground-nesting birds.
✅ 正确答案
C) They improved plant diversity by changing wind patterns that spread seeds.