Consider the following statements: Statement I: Mangrove forests are highly adapted to saline and waterlogged conditions, using specialized structures like pneumatophores and prop roots for respiration and support. Statement II: These adaptations allow mangroves to thrive in high-altitude inland freshwater wetlands and alpine lakes, far from coastal tidal influence. Which one of the following is correct? |ForumIAS

[A] Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, and Statement II is the correct explanation of Statement I

[B] Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, but Statement II is not the correct explanation of Statement I

[C] Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect

[D] Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct

Answer: C

Notes:

Explanation:

Mangroves are highly adapted to saline, tidal, and anaerobic (oxygen-poor) soil conditions through structures like pneumatophores, prop roots, and salt-secreting leaves.
Mangroves are littoral tropical and subtropical coastal plants, and they do not grow in inland freshwater or alpine lakes. Their habitat is limited to tidal estuaries, creeks, and deltaic mudflats.

Source: Environment (N.C.E.R.T)