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Multiple Choice
Which of the following adaptations most commonly enables organisms to survive in the supralittoral zone of a rocky beach?
A
Development of gills for underwater respiration
B
Ability to tolerate desiccation and withstand high temperature fluctuations
C
Specialized fins for rapid swimming in open water
D
Production of bioluminescence for deep-sea communication
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the supralittoral zone: The supralittoral zone is the area above the high tide line on a rocky beach. It is exposed to air most of the time and is only occasionally splashed by waves. Organisms here must adapt to conditions such as dryness (desiccation) and temperature fluctuations.
Analyze the environmental challenges: Organisms in this zone face challenges like limited water availability, exposure to sunlight causing high temperatures, and the need to survive without being submerged in water for extended periods.
Evaluate the adaptations: Development of gills for underwater respiration is not relevant because organisms in this zone are not submerged underwater. Specialized fins for rapid swimming and bioluminescence are adaptations for aquatic or deep-sea environments, not for the supralittoral zone.
Focus on the correct adaptation: The ability to tolerate desiccation and withstand high temperature fluctuations is the most relevant adaptation for organisms in the supralittoral zone. This allows them to survive the dry and hot conditions typical of this area.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the environmental conditions and the adaptations listed, the correct answer is the ability to tolerate desiccation and withstand high temperature fluctuations, as it directly addresses the challenges of the supralittoral zone.