Read the following piece of news and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 9 to 14.
Endangered Penguin Species
Penguins are the second-most threatened bird group worldwide due to climate change, overfishing, diseases, and habitat destruction. The (9) __________ of penguins in the Southern Hemisphere is declining rapidly. African and Galápagos penguins are found north of the equator. Flightless penguins have evolved strong, dense bodies and waterproof feathers, allowing them (10) __________ underwater and survive freezing waters. Their strong feet help them walk long distances on ice and swim (11) __________.
Penguins (12) __________ a significant effect on marine biodiversity. Nine out of 18 penguin species have been deemed endangered and vulnerable due to warming oceans, pollution, and overfishing, while African penguins' populations have declined by 70%. Over 90% of Emperor Penguins could be wiped out by 2100, caused by the rapid melting of sea ice, (13) __________ is classified as one of the most serious threats to their survival. Conservation measures are continuously (14) __________ to protect these charismatic aquatic birds and their habitats.
(Adapted from https://earth.org/biodiversity)