Correct Option
The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The stability of a forest ecosystem is intrinsically linked to its biodiversity. A diverse ecosystem with complex interrelationships between producers (plants), consumers (herbivores and carnivores), and decomposers ensures resilience and continuity. These interactions form food webs and facilitate critical ecological functions.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: A greater variety of plants implies a higher diversity of producers. This provides more opportunities for food and habitat for herbivores, rather than fewer. Increased plant diversity supports a wider range of ecological niches, allowing a larger and more diverse herbivore population to thrive.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Herbivores serve as the primary food source for carnivores (secondary consumers). A larger number and variety of herbivores ensure a stable and abundant food supply for carnivores, thereby supporting the predator population and maintaining the energy flow through the trophic levels.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Animals are essential for the regeneration and growth of forests. They act as agents of pollination and seed dispersal, enabling plants to reproduce and colonize new areas. Furthermore, animals contribute to nutrient cycling through excretion and decomposition, which enriches the soil for plant growth.
Key Takeaway: Biodiversity is the cornerstone of ecosystem stability. It ensures robust food webs and facilitates essential services like pollination and seed dispersal, allowing the forest to self-sustain and regenerate.