Biodiversity forms the basis for human existence in the following ways: 1. Soil formation 2. Prevention of soil erosion 3. Recycling of waste 4. Pollination of crops Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

1. Biodiversity underpins essential ecosystem services vital for human existence. 2. Statement 1 (Soil formation) is correct: Biological activity by microorganisms (bacteria, fungi), plants, and animals (e.g., earthworms) is crucial for the decomposition of organic matter and the weathering of rock, processes fundamental to soil formation. 3. Statement 2 (Prevention of soil erosion) is correct: Diverse plant cover (vegetation), a key component of biodiversity, protects the soil surface from wind and rain impact, while extensive root systems bind the soil together, preventing erosion. 4. Statement 3 (Recycling of waste) is correct: Decomposers like bacteria and fungi (part of biodiversity) break down dead organic material and waste products, returning essential nutrients to the soil and water for reuse by other organisms. 5. Statement 4 (Pollination of crops) is correct: Many agricultural crops depend on animals (pollinators such as bees, butterflies, birds, bats – part of biodiversity) for pollination, which is essential for fruit and seed production. Therefore, all four statements represent ways biodiversity forms the basis for human existence.