Question

lichens lack root systems, so they must absorb water directly from the air, dew, and even tree bark and retain it in their bodies. a team of scientists recently used computer simulations to evaluate the importance of water stored in tree bark (bark water) for lichens in the mediterranean region. in the control simulation, lichens had access to all sources except bark water. compared to the control, the experimental simulation predicted a decrease in the lichens overall biomass production of 21%. the experimental simulation (but not the control simulation) also predicted a decrease in the survival of certain species of lichen during the summer due to evaporative water loss, suggesting that ___. which choice most logically completes the text? a only some specialized lichen species are able to absorb bark water during long periods of high evaporation. b access to bark water may help offset the effects of seasonal water loss for some lichen species. c although lichens can absorb water from multiple sources, most of the water they absorb is bark water. d bark water absorption reduces biomass production in lichens but makes them more resistant to seasonal changes in conditions.

Explanation:

The text discusses lichens' water - absorption and its impact on survival and biomass production. It mentions simulations and experiments. Option B is correct as the text implies that access to bark water can help lichens offset seasonal water loss. Option A is incorrect as it's not just some specialized species. Option C is wrong because it's not that most of the water they absorb is bark water. Option D is not supported as there's no mention of biomass production making them more resistant to seasonal changes.

Answer:

B. access to bark water may help offset the effects of seasonal water loss for some lichen species.