Which of the following organisms has the greatest anthropocentric value?
A lichens salmon
B termites
C mosquitoes
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: A. Salmon
Explanation (Approx. 300 Words):
Anthropocentric value refers to the usefulness or importance of an organism to humans, based on human needs and interests. When evaluating anthropocentric value, we consider economic benefits, ecological roles that support human life, cultural significance, and contributions to human well-being.
Among the organisms listed — lichens, salmon, termites, and mosquitoes — salmon has the greatest anthropocentric value for several reasons:
- Economic Importance:
Salmon is a major source of food for humans around the world. It supports a multi-billion-dollar fishing industry, particularly in countries like the United States, Canada, Norway, and Japan. Wild and farmed salmon are both critical to global food markets, creating jobs in fishing, aquaculture, processing, and retail. - Nutritional Value:
Salmon is rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients such as vitamin D and selenium. These contribute to cardiovascular health, brain function, and overall human well-being. - Cultural and Recreational Significance:
In many Indigenous cultures, especially in the Pacific Northwest of North America, salmon is a spiritual and cultural symbol. Additionally, sport fishing for salmon provides recreational opportunities and tourism revenue. - Environmental Awareness and Conservation:
Salmon migration patterns and population health are indicators of environmental quality. Efforts to protect salmon habitats often lead to broader conservation initiatives that benefit entire ecosystems, which in turn supports human environmental needs.
In contrast:
- Termites have ecological value (decomposition), but are considered pests in human structures.
- Mosquitoes are major disease vectors (e.g., malaria, dengue), causing human suffering and economic burden.
- Lichens are valuable in ecosystems (bioindicators, nitrogen fixation) but have minimal direct human economic or cultural value.
Therefore, salmon clearly holds the greatest anthropocentric value among the listed organisms.