Ielts reading new zealand seaweed

Here's a sample IELTS reading passage on the topic of seaweed in New Zealand:

Passage

New Zealand's coastal waters are home to a diverse range of seaweed species, with over 400 different types found along its shores. Seaweed is an important component of the marine ecosystem, providing food and shelter for a wide variety of marine animals. In addition to its ecological significance, seaweed is also a valuable resource for human consumption and has been used for centuries in traditional Maori medicine.

One of the most common types of seaweed found in New Zealand is the kelp, which is a large brown seaweed that can grow up to 30 meters in length. Kelp is an important food source for many marine animals, including fish, seals, and penguins. It is also used by humans as a food source, with the fronds being used in salads and the stipes being used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces.

Another type of seaweed found in New Zealand is the dulse, a red seaweed that is commonly found on rocky shores. Dulse is a popular food source among locals, who use it to make a sweet and savory snack. It is also used in traditional Maori medicine to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory problems and skin conditions.

New Zealand's seaweed industry is small but growing, with many companies harvesting and processing seaweed for use in a range of products, including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The industry is also working to develop new products and uses for seaweed, such as using it as a sustainable source of biofuels.

Questions

  1. How many different types of seaweed are found in New Zealand's coastal waters?
  2. What is the ecological significance of seaweed in New Zealand's marine ecosystem?
  3. What is kelp used for in human consumption?
  4. What is dulse used for in traditional Maori medicine?
  5. What is the current state of New Zealand's seaweed industry?

Answer Key

  1. Over 400 different types of seaweed are found in New Zealand's coastal waters.
  2. Seaweed provides food and shelter for a wide variety of marine animals.
  3. Kelp is used as a food source, with the fronds being used in salads and the stipes being used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces.
  4. Dulse is used to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory problems and skin conditions.
  5. The seaweed industry in New Zealand is small but growing, with many companies harvesting and processing seaweed for use in a range of products.