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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of organisms living in the intertidal zone?

Intertidal organisms must endure big swings in moisture, salinity, and the force of crashing waves, so their typical adaptations focus on staying in place, surviving changing salt levels, and riding the tides to feed or avoid desiccation. Photosynthesis with little sunlight isn’t a standard trait here because photosynthesis needs adequate light, and while light conditions do vary, organisms in this zone generally rely on sufficient light when they’re submerged or during daylight. The ability to cling tightly to rock surfaces is common, helping them resist being washed away. Tolerance of dramatic salinity changes is another key feature, since immersion in seawater and exposure to rain or freshwater flushes create a wide range of salt levels. Some species do track the tidal cycle to take advantage of feeding opportunities or to minimize exposure, so moving with the tides can occur. In that light, the statement about photosynthesis under very low light doesn’t fit as a typical intertidal adaptation.

Intertidal organisms must endure big swings in moisture, salinity, and the force of crashing waves, so their typical adaptations focus on staying in place, surviving changing salt levels, and riding the tides to feed or avoid desiccation. Photosynthesis with little sunlight isn’t a standard trait here because photosynthesis needs adequate light, and while light conditions do vary, organisms in this zone generally rely on sufficient light when they’re submerged or during daylight. The ability to cling tightly to rock surfaces is common, helping them resist being washed away. Tolerance of dramatic salinity changes is another key feature, since immersion in seawater and exposure to rain or freshwater flushes create a wide range of salt levels. Some species do track the tidal cycle to take advantage of feeding opportunities or to minimize exposure, so moving with the tides can occur. In that light, the statement about photosynthesis under very low light doesn’t fit as a typical intertidal adaptation.