Question

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a rising tides would not likely affect the
populations of either smooth cordgrass or
common reed grass.
b rising tides would likely cause an increase in
smooth cordgrass and a decrease in common
reed grass.
c lower tides would likely increase both smooth
cordgrass and common reed grass.
d lower tides would likely reduce both smooth
cordgrass and common reed grass.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze the ecological relationship between tidal levels and plant populations (smooth cordgrass and common reed grass). Smooth cordgrass typically thrives in more tidal (wet) conditions, while common reed grass may be less adapted to high tides. Rising tides would expand the habitat for smooth cordgrass (increasing its population) and reduce the habitat for common reed grass (decreasing its population). Option A is wrong as tides do affect them. Option C: Lower tides would reduce smooth cordgrass habitat (so it wouldn't increase), and common reed grass might increase but not both. Option D: Lower tides would likely help common reed grass (not reduce both). So B is correct.

Answer:

B. Rising tides would likely cause an increase in smooth cordgrass and a decrease in common reed grass.