Why are forest carbon stocks and biodiversity (species richness) correlated?
a. Forest carbon stocks and biodiversity are correlated because forests with dense vegetation and complex ecosystem structures tend to store more carbon and provide more niches for diverse species to inhabit.
b. Forest carbon stocks and biodiversity are correlated due to the presence of certain tree species that are particularly efficient at storing carbon and also provide specific habitats for a variety of organisms.
c. Forest carbon stocks and biodiversity are correlated because the maintenance of healthy, biodiverse forests requires a high level of carbon sequestration, which in turn supports a wide range of species.
d. Forest carbon stocks and biodiversity are correlated because both are influenced by factors such as climate, soil nutrients, and disturbance regimes that create conditions favorable for both carbon storage and species diversity.