Read the following passage:
'The mangrove wetlands of the Niger Delta represent one of the most productive yet vulnerable coastal ecosystems in West Africa. Spanning thousands of square kilometers of brackish creeks, these dense stilt-rooted forests serve as vital nurseries for Atlantic fish species, stabilize coastlines against tidal surges, and sequester carbon at rates far exceeding inland tropical forests. However, decades of oil extraction, channel dredging, and rapid urban sprawl have fragmented this natural buffer, exposing delta communities to heightened flooding and declining fisheries.'
According to the passage, why are mangrove forests especially effective at coastal defense?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. their dense stilt-rooted structures dissipate incoming tidal energy and stabilize shorelines
- Step 1: Locate the sentence discussing coastal defense: 'these dense stilt-rooted forests serve as vital nurseries... stabilize coastlines against tidal surges'.
- Step 2: The stilt-rooted root architecture physically dampens tidal surge energy and prevents soil erosion.
Answer
their dense stilt-rooted structures dissipate incoming tidal energy and stabilize shorelines.
Why not the others: Mangroves do not block petroleum extraction or alter deep ocean currents.
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More Comprehension and Summary questions
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