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Package 2 - AM Reading

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406 views

Package 2 - AM Reading

Uploaded by

nhulam485
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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FINAL TEST

Code: ZFT.0224.AM

Reading Module
Read the text and answer the questions 1-6.

The Hidden Threat

The river enthusiasts and anglers are filled with fear when they encounter the slimy, murky brown substance
that emits a repulsive smell. Yet, this ominous substance, often dubbed "sewage fungus," is a misnomer.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not a fungus. Instead, it is a sophisticated assemblage of bacteria, typically
coexisting with algae and fungi. This unsightly growth signals trouble for aquatic ecosystems and the
organisms that reside in them.

Thriving in environments rich in nutrients and organic matter, this bacterial mass finds a perfect home in
waterways polluted by sewage discharges, animal waste, or even paper mill effluent. A recent study by
Oxford University has identified sewage contamination, regardless of any treatment measures, as the main
cause for the widespread growth of "sewage fungus" in waterways.

By depleting oxygen levels, this slimy invader suffocates aquatic life, smothering fish eggs and decimating
invertebrate populations. There have been instances of large-scale fish deaths in the affected water bodies,
disrupting the delicate food web. Despite being removed, the consequences on the long-term well-being of
the river might be catastrophic, necessitating extensive time for recovery.

With over 389,000 sewage spills reported in the UK in 2022 alone, the potential for increased "sewage
fungus" outbreaks is alarming. However, assessing the true scale of the problem remains a challenge due to
restricted investigation. Dr. Michelle Jackson, whose study at Oxford University brought attention to the
greater danger of sewage pollution compared to agricultural runoff, stresses the importance of using more
extensive monitoring methods that go beyond basic visual inspections.

A glimmer of hope emerges from Oxford University's development of an AI model capable of detecting the
growth of these bacteria even before they become visible. This early detection system, using imaging
techniques and machine learning, could serve as a "canary in the coalmine," preventing pollution buildup and
mitigating species decline.

However, unless specific measures are implemented to tackle the underlying issue of sewage discharge, the
presence of this unpleasant and slippery threat may become a permanent and disagreeable feature in the
waterways.

Choose the correct answer.


1. Which of the following best summarizes the main point of the text?
A. Most people misunderstand the complex nature of "Sewage fungus".
B. Sewage pollution is the primary cause of "sewage fungus" outbreaks.
C. The impact of "sewage fungus" on aquatic life is far-reaching.
D. Current monitoring methods have difficulty measuring the sewage pollution.
E. Early sewage identification and prevention with AI is promising.

2. What is the common misconception about the substance that river enthusiasts and anglers found?
A. It is a natural part of the river ecosystem.
B. It is primarily composed of harmful chemicals.
C. It is a type of sewage treatment.
D. It is a complex mixture of bacteria, algae, and fungi.
E. It is a form of sewage fungus.

3. How does sewage contamination contribute to the growth of "sewage fungus" in waters in the
third paragraph?
A. It provides the nutrients needed for bacteria and fungi to grow.
B. It blocks sunlight, creating a perfect environment for the fungi.
C. It raises water temperature, helping fungi grow faster.
D. It reduces water flow, helping fungi spread quickly to other areas.
E. It lowers water levels, allowing fungi to attach to surfaces and survive.

4. According to the third paragraph, why is "sewage fungus" detrimental to aquatic life?
A. It brings in invasive species that pose a threat to local species.
B. It forms a thick mat that physically blocks fish food and gills.
C. It lowers oxygen levels, destroying aquatic creatures.
D. It releases toxins that build up in the tissues of fish and invertebrates.
E. It changes the water pH balance, damaging the habitats of many species.

5. How may the system developed by Oxford University help in mitigating species decline?
A. By detecting the presence of bacteria in an early stage.
B. By preventing the spread of invasive species.
C. By adversely influencing the sewage fungus's growth.
D. By guiding native fish to more favorable waters.
E. By cleaning the sewage discharges before they enter the waters.

6. What can be inferred about the future of waters if no action is taken against sewage discharge?
A. Waterways will continue to degrade aesthetically.
B. Local people will have to move to other places.
C. Sewage fungus will be a lasting challenge.
D. Agricultural runoff will increasingly threaten water quality.
E. The local fish population will drastically decline.

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