If the distribution of mussel beds in the rocky intertidal ecosystem is limited

Question

If the distribution of mussel beds in the rocky intertidal ecosystem is limited by desiccation and predation, in which zone would you expect to find them? Select one: a. Mussel beds are be located between the high and low tide zone because the high tide zone is exposed to air more frequently and for longer duration of time while the sea stars which eat mussels live in the low tide zone. b. Mussel beds are be located between the high and mid tide zone because the high tide zone is exposed to air more frequently and for longer duration of time while the sea stars which eat mussels live in the mid tide zone. c. Mussel beds are be located between the mid and low tide zone because in the mid tide zone the mussels are submerged in water and only exposed to air during very low tides while being able to avoid the sea stars which eat mussels and live in the low tide zone. Incorrect. d. Mussel beds are located between the spray zone and the high tide zone because they do not like to be submerged in water for long periods of time. 2

Explanation / Answer

answer - option d

usually the lower limit of the mussels beds are set by the predators which are sea stars, so mostly they are found in between the high and the mid tide zone.

To avoid desiccation and predation , spray zone is the best because it is the zone where the predators which are sea stars will not come and also the problem of desiccation will not be there because the spray zone is regularly splashed but not submerged.

so the best zone will be between the spray zone and high tide zone.

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