Exploring the Intertidal Zone

Which of the following best describes the spray zone in the intertidal area?

• It is always submerged underwater.

• It is dampened by ocean spray and high waves and is submerged only during very high tides or severe storms.

• It is flooded during the peaks of daily high tides but remains dry for long stretches between high tides.

• It is submerged except during the lowest of spring tides.

What is a characteristic of the high intertidal zone?

• It is virtually always underwater.

• It is inhabited by organisms that can withstand pounding waves.

• It is only submerged during severe storms.

• It is primarily inhabited by algae.

Which organisms are typically found in the middle intertidal zone?

• Barnacles and marine snails

• Sea stars and anemones

• Mussels, crabs, and anemones

• Shore crabs and hermit crabs

How do intertidal organisms primarily obtain oxygen?

• From the air

• From dissolved oxygen in water

• Through photosynthesis

• From the soil

What is a common adaptation of algae living in the intertidal zone?

• Ability to photosynthesize in the dark

• Adaptation to being exposed to air or being underwater for long periods

• Ability to move to avoid predators

• Development of hard shells

Which of the following is a risk for intertidal organisms during low tide?

• Overheating due to constant sunlight

• Starvation and suffocation

• Being washed away by strong currents

• Freezing temperatures

What is a benefit for intertidal organisms during low tide?

• Increased access to food

• Escape from predation by marine animals

• Constant water coverage

• Higher oxygen levels

Which zone is typically submerged except during the lowest of spring tides?

• Spray zone

• High intertidal zone

• Middle intertidal zone

• Low intertidal zone

What type of shoreline might have shallow pools of water remaining during low tide?

• Sandy beaches

• Rocky shorelines

• Mudflats

• Mangrove forests

Which of the following organisms is often found in the upper part of the intertidal zone?

• Sea stars

• Anemones

• Barnacles

• Mussels