belugas into the US.The whales were caught off the coast of Russia.The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is considering the aquarium's request thoroughly.A law called the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) says the animals can only be brought into the country and put on display if they are caught without being hurt and there is an educational reason for doing so.

　　Georgia Aquarium officials say the 18 belugas will help people learn more about the species and allow scientists to better understand how to protect it.The aquarium would also breed the whales so the US aquariums can continue to display them."When we can study and observe，we gain a better understanding of their biology and diseases that affect them，and learn how to aid populations in their natural habitats，" says William Hurley，Georgia Aquarium's chief officer."Much of this research would be impossible in the remote locations and extreme climates where the animals live." The Georgia Aquarium would own the 18 belugas and would rent some to aquariums across the country.

　　Meanwhile，many scientists，including Lori Marino，a whale expert，feel strongly that the whales belong in the ocean，not in tanks.These scientists say the whales are being used for entertainment and not for education，and having them in aquariums is not necessary for the species to survive.Marino said，"Not only is it unfair to the belugas but there is no educational value in putting these whales on display."

　　【语篇解读】　白鲸是一种生活在北极的聪明的动物，现在有210多头生活在人类世界的水族馆里，美国的一家水族馆请求再引进18头，引起了专家们的争论。

　　4．What can we learn about belugas?

　　A．They live in the Atlantic Ocean.

　　B．They are highly thought of.

　　C．They are very smart whales.

　　D．They are the smallest in number.

　　C　[细节理解题。根据第一段中的"Highly intelligent..."可得出答案。]

　　5．If the Georgia Aquarium's request is allowed， ．

A．there'll be 210 belugas in the world