Which of the following is NOT considered a type of marine ecosystem?

The correct choice is C, which identifies deserts as NOT being a type of marine ecosystem. Marine ecosystems are defined as ecological communities in the ocean and include diverse environments where saltwater is the primary component.

Coral reefs are highly productive marine ecosystems that provide habitat for numerous species and are characterized by their structure made of coral polyps. Estuaries, where freshwater from rivers meets the sea, create dynamic environments that support both marine and freshwater species. Intertidal zones, located along shorelines, are areas that experience varying degrees of water exposure due to tides, hosting specialized flora and fauna adapted to this unique environment.

In contrast, deserts are terrestrial biomes characterized by arid conditions and limited vegetation. They do not contain significant water bodies or marine life, thus excluding them from the classification of marine ecosystems. The distinction highlights the diversity of ecosystem types across the planet and emphasizes the unique characteristics of marine environments.