The following passage is adapted from an essay about desert ecology and plant survival strategies.
Paragraph 3 (lines 15–28)
In the arid expanse of the Sonoran Desert, seedling survival is a precarious venture, with young cacti frequently succumbing to intense solar radiation and foraging herbivores. However, a biological phenomenon known as 'nurse parenting' dramatically alters these odds. Mature desert trees, such as the foothill paloverde, serve as vital protectors for vulnerable saguaro seedlings. By establishing themselves beneath the dense canopy of a paloverde, saguaro seedlings are shielded from the scorching midday sun, which significantly reduces soil temperature and moisture loss. Furthermore, the physical barrier of the host tree's low-hanging branches deters large herbivores like jackrabbits from grazing on the tender young cacti. Over decades, as the saguaro grows and develops a robust root system, it eventually outcompetes its host tree for water and nutrients, sometimes leading to the paloverde's demise, but the initial phase of their relationship remains a crucial cornerstone of desert regeneration.
Which of the following statements best expresses the main idea of Paragraph 3?
- ASaguaro seedlings establish a mutually beneficial partnership that permanently enhances the growth of the host tree.
- BDesert plants employ a diverse array of evolutionary adaptations to survive in extremely arid environments.
- Mature trees facilitate desert regeneration by sheltering vulnerable seedlings from environmental stressors and predators.Answer
- DYoung saguaro cacti are highly susceptible to being eaten by herbivores like jackrabbits.