PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What contributes to the destruction of wetlands?

1. Increased rainfall

2. Human construction

3. Wildlife conservation efforts

4. Aquatic farming

The correct answer is: Human construction

Human construction plays a significant role in the destruction of wetlands. These areas are often targeted for urban development, agriculture, and infrastructure projects because they are typically located near water sources and are deemed valuable for expansion and resource extraction. This construction often involves draining the wetlands, filling them in, or altering their natural hydrology, which can lead to a loss of habitat for various plant and animal species, disrupt the local ecosystem, and diminish the wetlands' ability to provide vital ecosystem services like water filtration, flood protection, and carbon storage. In contrast, increased rainfall can enhance wetland areas by providing more water, while wildlife conservation efforts aim to protect and restore these important ecosystems. Aquatic farming, depending on its practices, can sometimes have minimal or even positive impacts on certain wetland areas, particularly when done sustainably. Overall, human construction is a direct and significant threat to wetland environments.