An estuary collects sediments from the ocean and rivers that feed into it. The sediments swirl around and then settle to form a
mudflat. Eel grass is then established on the mudflat. The ecosystem changes over time and ultimately develops into a salt marsh that contains mangrove trees. Which of the following is likely NOT involved in this example of ecological succession?
A. The rotting remains of plants add to the fertility of the soil.
B. The soil becomes so fertile that eel grass is replaced by other plant species.
C. The roots from plants help stabilize the sediment, keeping it in place.
D. The concentration of salt becomes so high that all plant life is destroyed.
D. The concentration of salt becomes so high that all plant life is destroyed.
Explanation:
An estuary is a part of marine system, it serves as nurses to animals. The Eel grass establishes in the mudflat. The soil becomes fertile and Eel grass is then replaced by plants. These plants roots helps stabilize sediments and rotten remains from these plants are added to fertile the soil. The answer D is correct which is not involved in ecological succession.
D. The concentration of salt becomes so high that all plant life is destroyed.
Explanation:
As time passes, the structure of an ecological community gradually changes leading to formation of new species. This is known as <u>ecological succession</u>.
The various processes above show an example of how ecological succession occurs over time. <u>However, it doesn't indicate at any point that plant life is destroyed due to high concentration of salt.</u>
The salt marsh that results actually supports plant life in the form of mangrove trees.
