Question

add the sentence that best establishes the topic of the paragraph. the trees are distinctive for their huge, barrel - shaped trunks, some of which can grow to over thirty feet in diameter and nearly one hundred feet tall. during rainy seasons in african savannas, the trunks can store thousands of gallons of water. encasing these trunks is thick, sponge - like bark that helps baobabs to absorb rainwater efficiently and prevent evaporation. when a prolonged period of drought sets in, the trees can rely on their large water stores. the trees will also drop their leaves during the drought to conserve moisture within their trunks. these physical features help to account for the incredible longevity of baobab trees: as of 2023, the oldest living african baobab was estimated to be over two thousand years old. perhaps because of their gigantic size and unusual appearance, baobab trees have long been the subject of myths and legends. nicknamed \upside - down trees,\ baobab trees have easily recognizable branches that look like roots reaching up towards the sky. baobab trees can be found throughout parts of mainland africa and madagascar, where they have developed adaptations to survive their arid habitats. in their scorching habitats across africa and australia, towering baobab trees can provide much - needed shade to humans and animals.

Explanation:

The paragraph focuses on the physical features and survival - related adaptations of baobab trees in arid habitats. The best topic - establishing sentence should introduce the trees and their habitats. The third option does this by stating where baobab trees are found and their adaptations to arid habitats, which sets the stage for the details in the paragraph.

Answer:

Baobab trees can be found throughout parts of mainland Africa and Madagascar, where they have developed adaptations to survive their arid habitats.