A researcher finds that the physical environment at a certain location alternates between marine and terrestrial with the rise and fall of the tides. A stable substratum provides an anchor against the pounding tides for a diverse array of organisms. Organisms that live there, especially those that are sessile, usually have high tolerance for changes in salinity, temperature, and desiccation. This area is most likely a(n)
A) estuary.
B) sandy shore.
C) rocky intertidal zone.
D) pelagic zone.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The description matches a rocky intertidal zone, where organisms must withstand the harsh conditions of changing tides, salinity, temperature, and desiccation.

A Researcher Finds That the Physical Environment at a Certain