Freshwater lakes have distinct zones of biological communities. These zones are based on the availability of resources linked to the structure of the lake. Which of the following best characterizes the benthic zone of a lake?

[A] It is below the thermohaline and has cold, dense water.

[B] It receives enough sunlight and nutrients to support large communities of rooted plants.

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

[D] It is composed of open water and dominated by plankton.

Answer: C

Notes:

The thermohaline is a zone of water in which temperature changes quickly. The benthic zone can be located above or below the thermohaline.

The benthic zone can be near shore or in open water. However, it is dominated by decomposers and detritus feeders, not plankton.

The benthic zone can support some rooted plants but is dominated by decomposers and detritus feeders.

The benthic zone contains invertebrates such as worms, insects, larva, and clams, which can survive in low-oxygen environments.

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