What is an example of a regulating ecosystem service?

Regulating ecosystem services refer to the benefits that ecosystems provide by regulating natural processes, contributing to the health and stability of the environment. Carbon sequestration by forests is a prime example of this type of service. It involves the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which helps mitigate climate change. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 through photosynthesis and storing it in biomass and soil. By effectively sequestering carbon, forests play a crucial role in regulating climate and maintaining atmospheric balance.

The other options illustrate different categories of ecosystem services. Provisioning food for a community falls under provisioning services, which supply direct benefits to humans, such as food, water, and raw materials. Traditional cultural practices related to land use pertain to cultural services, which involve non-material benefits like cultural identity and spiritual enrichment. Lastly, recreational opportunities in parks also relate to cultural services, providing enjoyment and leisure to individuals and communities. Each of these examples highlights different aspects of ecosystem services, but carbon sequestration specifically aligns with the defining characteristics of regulating services.