Question

select the best evidence to support the statement that dead trees benefit animals in the forest.

dead trees are vital for the forest and take many different forms.

the trees that fall to the forest floor are important because they help keep the soil moist by soaking up rainwater. one of the most important roles for these fallen trees is serving as a nursery for young seedlings. as the logs lie on the ground, leaves and cones accumulate on top, slowly decomposing, and turning into soil. seeds fall into this fertile soil, growing into young seedlings.

the dead trees that remain standing are called \snags.\ insects feed on these trees, which in turn give the pileated woodpeckers plenty of food to prey on. eventually, the tree will fall and assume a new role as a downed log.

adapted from national park service, \trees and shrubs\

Explanation:

The best evidence directly links dead trees to animal benefits. The text states standing dead trees (snags) support insects, which are food for pileated woodpeckers, creating a clear animal benefit pathway.

Answer:

Insects feed on these trees, which in turn give the pileated woodpeckers plenty of food to prey on.