\( (\mathrm{Q} 4,04 \mathrm{MC}) \) Sahatore hadi growen tited of his fish lank and would like to get rid of the fish and contents of the tank in a nearby freshwater canal. Which argument presents the inost devastating censequences of Salvalore's dumping of the tank? He may be intoducing an invasike species that will damage the ecosysterm He may be kiling the creatures living in the tank. He may be destroying the opportunity for awning pets in the futures He may be polluting the lake with the contents of the tank.

The most **devastating consequence** of Sahatore dumping his fish tank into a nearby freshwater canal is: **He may be introducing an invasive species that will damage the ecosystem.** **Explanation:** - **Introducing Invasive Species:** Releasing non-native species into a new environment can disrupt the existing ecosystem balance. These invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, spread diseases, and alter habitats, leading to significant and often irreversible damage to the ecosystem. - **Polluting the Lake:** While pollution is also a serious concern, the introduction of invasive species has long-term and potentially more widespread impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health. - **Killing the Creatures in the Tank:** This is harmful but has a more localized effect compared to the broader ecological consequences of introducing invasive species. - **Destroying Opportunities for Owning Pets:** This consequence is relatively minor compared to the environmental impacts mentioned above. **Therefore, introducing an invasive species poses the most severe threat to the ecosystem.**