Final answer:
Light penetration is crucial in aquatic environments and largely determines where photosynthetic species can live. Photosynthetic organisms are mainly found in the photic zone, while specialized forms of life exist in dark environments like hydrothermal vents.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct statement about light in aquatic environments is D) Light penetration largely limits the distribution of photosynthetic species. This is because, as light travels through water, it is absorbed and scattered, reducing the intensity and altering the quality of the light. Shorter wavelengths, like blue light, penetrate further in water compared to longer wavelengths, which are absorbed more quickly. Therefore, photosynthetic organisms, which require light for energy, are typically found in the upper layers of the water column where light is available, such as in the photic zone.
In aquatic ecosystems, the amount of light available decreases with depth due to absorption by water, suspended particles, and other living organisms. This affects the distribution of aquatic photosynthetic organisms, such as algae and water lilies, which need to be near the surface to receive adequate sunlight for photosynthesis. In contrast, in environments like hydrothermal vents where sunlight cannot reach, some bacteria derive energy from inorganic chemicals instead.