What is one example of the economic importance of Echinoderms?

Echinoderms are highly significant to the economy, particularly through the lens of tourism. Locations that feature diverse marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs populated with echinoderms like starfish and sea urchins, attract tourists for activities such as snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography. The presence of these fascinating organisms can enhance the aesthetic value of marine environments, making them desirable destinations.

The tourism generated by echinoderms contributes to local economies through various avenues, including jobs in hospitality, guiding services, and marine conservation efforts. This economic benefit underscores the interconnectedness of ecological health and human economic activity, demonstrating how the preservation of marine habitats can be vital for both biodiversity and economic sustainability.

Other options, such as coral reef construction, ocean pollution control, and freshwater fish cultivation, do not effectively capture the direct economic benefit provided by echinoderms, as they focus on different marine processes or organisms that may not directly involve echinoderms.