Question

1. which zone is exposed to air and direct sunlight most? least?
2. why couldnt a sea star live in the splash zone?
3. in which zone or zones are you likely to find mussels? explain why.

Explanation:

1. The intertidal zone is divided into different sub - zones. The spray zone is most exposed to air and direct sunlight as it is the highest part of the intertidal zone. The subtidal zone is least exposed as it is mostly underwater. For the sea star question, the splash zone has harsh conditions like desiccation and temperature fluctuations which are not suitable for sea stars. Mussels are often found in the intertidal zone as they can attach to rocks and withstand the alternating wet and dry conditions.
2. Sea stars need a relatively stable aquatic environment. The splash zone experiences long periods of exposure to air, leading to desiccation (drying out), extreme temperature changes, and high wave - action stress, which are not conducive to their survival.
3. Mussels are commonly found in the intertidal zone. They have adaptations such as strong byssal threads to attach to rocks and can tolerate the alternating wet and dry conditions due to the tides. They can also filter - feed when submerged.

Answer:

1. Most: Spray zone; Least: Subtidal zone
2. Because of desiccation, extreme temperature changes and high wave - action stress in the splash zone.
3. Intertidal zone. They can attach to rocks with byssal threads and tolerate alternating wet and dry conditions.