Mangroves are trees that can tolerate saltwater. The salinity in the water off the coast of Florida has increased. Red mangroves are surviving and reproducing, while the black mangrove population has decreased. Which statement best explains what is happening to the mangrove trees?

man

All of the mangroves will die.

Individual mangroves can adapt, so those trees, red and black will survive.

The black trees will produce offspring that can live in the water with a higher salinity.

Black mangrove trees can't adjust to salinity. Red mangroves are better adapted for salty environments.

1 answer

The statement that best explains what is happening to the mangrove trees is:

"Black mangrove trees can't adjust to salinity. Red mangroves are better adapted for salty environments."

This statement accurately reflects the situation where increasing salinity in the water affects the survival and reproduction of different species of mangroves, indicating that red mangroves have a higher tolerance for salinity compared to black mangroves.