Which is an example of a provisioning ecosystem service?

• A. Food
• B. Flood regulation
• C. Cultural heritage
• D. Aesthetic value

Answer: (A)

Provisioning ecosystem services are tangible resources that people obtain directly from natural systems. Food fits this category because it is a material product produced by ecosystems (plants, animals, fisheries) that humans harvest and consume. The other options illustrate different types of services: flood regulation is a regulating service, helping to manage water flow and reduce flood risk; cultural heritage and aesthetic value are cultural ecosystem services, related to meaning, identity, and beauty rather than material goods. So food is the provisioning example.