Which of the following organisms might be found in a freshwater ecosystem?

• A. Coral polyps
• B. Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
• C. Sea otter (Enhydra lutris)
• D. Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the problem. A freshwater ecosystem is an aquatic environment with low salt concentration, such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and streams. Organisms living in freshwater ecosystems are adapted to these conditions.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided. Coral polyps, green sea turtles, and sea otters are typically found in marine ecosystems, which have high salt concentrations. These organisms are not adapted to freshwater environments.
3. Step 3: Identify the organism that is adapted to freshwater ecosystems. Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) is a freshwater fish commonly found in lakes, rivers, and ponds. It is well-suited to the low-salinity conditions of freshwater ecosystems.
4. Step 4: Confirm the reasoning by considering the habitat requirements of each organism. Coral polyps require saltwater to build reefs, green sea turtles live in oceans and coastal areas, and sea otters inhabit marine environments. Largemouth bass, however, thrives in freshwater habitats.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), as it is the only organism listed that is naturally found in freshwater ecosystems.