1. (2024九下·黄岩开学考)  阅读理解

A group of scientists set out to estimate (估计) the number of ants on Earth. According to their research, there are about 2.5 million ants for every human on the planet. Then the scientists held 489 studies of ant populations.

The studies covered all kinds of habitats (住处) including cities, deserts and forests. The researchers find that most ants live in tropical (热带的) areas and that they are more commonly found in forests and dry areas than in human-made habitats. In addition, the scientists find that the population of ants is more than the number of all the world's wild birds and animals together.

The researchers say this number is a low estimate. This is because they did not have much information on how many ants live underground. Besides, there were not many trusted studies about how many ants live in certain parts of the world, like Africa.

Ants play very important roles in the environment. They help to spread seeds, help water reach plant roots, and are a kind of food for many living things. Patrick, who did this new estimate, said "I am sure the whole nature would simply break down without ants."

For checking their populations, it is useful to estimate how many ants there are. Then the scientists can see if they are becoming less because of harmful changes in the environment Worldwide, the number of insects, a group that includes ants, is becoming less. However, it is not clear if the number of ants is becoming less as well.

1. （1） According to the passage, where are ants commonly found?

   A . In wet areas and forests. B . In tropical areas. C . In human-made habitats. D . In the water.
3. （2） What causes the number of ants to be a low estimate?

   ①There aren't many ants m forests. ② Scientists don't know how many ants in certain areas.

   ③The studies are mainly held in the cities. ④ The studies aren't sure about ants underground.

   A . ①③ B . ①④ C . ②③ D . ②④
5. （3） What does Paragraph 4 mainly talk about?

   A . Fewer living things sec ants.as food, B . Ants are of great importance to nature. C . Most ants live in human-made habitats. D . The whole nature will break down with ants.
7. （4） Why do the scientists estimate the number of ants?

   A . To see if ants are becoming less. B . To check the number of wild birds. C . To research the population of humans. D . To study if animals' conditions are better.