Question

which of the following best characterizes the benthic zone of a lake? choose 1 answer: a it is composed of open water and dominated by plankton. b it is the land based community of organisms and their environment not associated the water. c it contains organisms that are able to survive in low - oxygen concentrations. d it receives enough sunlight and nutrients to support large communities of rooted plants.

Explanation:

The benthic zone of a lake is the bottom - most zone. It has low oxygen levels due to decomposition of organic matter and limited water movement. Organisms living here have adapted to survive in such low - oxygen conditions. Option A describes the limnetic zone (open water dominated by plankton). Option B is not related to lake zones. Option D describes the littoral zone (near - shore zone with rooted plants).

Answer:

C. It contains organisms that are able to survive in low - oxygen concentrations.