Which of the following best describes a distinguishing feature of freshwater biomes compared to marine biomes?

• A. Freshwater biomes are found only near the equator.
• B. Freshwater biomes cover a larger area of Earth's surface than marine biomes.
• C. Marine biomes are characterized by the absence of any plant life.
• D. Freshwater biomes have a much lower salt concentration than marine biomes.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key difference between freshwater and marine biomes: Freshwater biomes have a significantly lower salt concentration compared to marine biomes. This is a fundamental characteristic that distinguishes the two.
2. Recall that freshwater biomes include ecosystems such as rivers, lakes, streams, and wetlands, where the salt concentration is typically less than 0.05%.
3. Marine biomes, on the other hand, include oceans, coral reefs, and estuaries, and they have a much higher salt concentration, averaging around 3.5%.
4. Evaluate the incorrect options: Freshwater biomes are not limited to the equator; they exist globally. Freshwater biomes do not cover a larger area than marine biomes; marine biomes dominate Earth's surface. Marine biomes are not devoid of plant life; they support diverse plant species such as algae and seagrasses.
5. Conclude that the correct distinguishing feature is the lower salt concentration in freshwater biomes compared to marine biomes.