Which organism is NOT typical of the low-tide zone?

The low-tide zone, often referred to as the intertidal zone, is characterized by specific environmental conditions, including exposure to air during low tide and aquatic conditions during high tide. Organisms found in this area have adaptations that allow them to survive fluctuating conditions of temperature, salinity, and moisture.

Barnacles, while indeed present in the intertidal zone, are typically found in the zone that is higher up the shore compared to the other options. They tend to be more common in the upper levels of the intertidal area where they securely attach to surfaces like rocks and piers and can endure prolonged periods of exposure.

In contrast, sea anemones, oysters, and mussels are generally found lower in the intertidal zone. These organisms are adapted to being submerged for a longer duration each day and can tolerate the more stable, subtidal environment just below the low-tide line. Sea anemones often seek refuge in the water as the tide rises and can manage short exposures, while oysters and mussels are well-known for forming reefs in the more marine section of the intertidal zone where they can filter feed from the water column.

Thus, selecting barnacles reflects an understanding of their typical habitat