Question

everglades ecosystem is a shallow, slow - moving river where different kinds of grasses grow in the water. alligators lie on mud banks in the sun, while large birds take shelter on islands of tall trees. because this ecosystem is so special, part of the everglades is now a national park that is protected by the united states government. this means the area cannot easily be built upon or changed in any way. this protects a large part of the everglades, but still allows many people to visit and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
2 the everglades may look peaceful and quiet, but this ecosystem is always changing. some of these changes are natural because they are caused by weather and other conditions. for example, sometimes during a bad storm, lightning will strike trees or the ground. this can cause a wildfire. many trees and other plants can burn before the fire goes out, and some animals can die or lose their habitat. although a wildfire can cause great change, ecosystems usually do recover. hurricanes can also cause changes in the everglades ecosystem. in 1992, hurricane andrew cut across southern florida. this dangerous storm went right through the middle of the everglades. although most animals prevailed, many trees were
based on the text, the reader can conclude that —
select one:
○ ecosystems are peaceful and quiet, and they will always recover from natural disasters.
○ ecosystems are always changing, and animals are not able to adapt to their new environment.
○ ecosystems are protected by the government, so officials will help out the ecosystems.
○ ecosystems are always shifting, but are usually able to recover from many natural disasters.

Explanation:

The text describes how the Everglades ecosystem experiences natural changes due to weather - like wildfires from lightning and impacts from hurricanes. It also mentions that despite these changes, the ecosystem usually recovers. Option A is incorrect as it over - generalizes about ecosystems always being peaceful and always recovering from natural disasters. Option B is wrong because it says animals can't adapt, which is not supported. Option C is too narrow as it only focuses on government protection. Option D aligns with the text's description of ecosystems shifting and recovering from natural disasters.

Answer:

D. Ecosystems are always shifting, but are usually able to recover from many natural disasters.