Why are organisms in rocky intertidal zones sorted into horizontal bands?
A)crashing waves remove weaker ones close to the water line
B)some float and are carried upward at high tide
C)some can better tolerate drying out between high tides
D)some need to stay out of the water to breathe

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Organisms in rocky intertidal zones are sorted into horizontal bands based on their ability to tolerate drying out between high tides. The species that can tolerate the driest conditions can be found higher up on the rocks, while those that require more moisture are found closer to the waterline. This is known as zonation. Crashing waves and the need to breathe do not necessarily sort organisms into horizontal bands in these zones, and floating is not a major factor in the organization of species in this environment.

Why Are Organisms in Rocky Intertidal Zones Sorted into Horizontal