The mangroves can shed tons of leaves per acre every year, fungi and bacteria break down this leaf litter and consume it, they then are consumed by tiny worms and crustaceans, that in turn feed small fish, larger fish, birds and crocodiles.
Which among the following is the most logical inference of the above statement?

Options

A. Coastal areas cannot have food chains without mangroves.
B. Mangroves are an essential component of all marine ecosystems.
C. Mangroves have a crucial role in some of the coastal food chains.
D. The composition of marine flora and fauna is largely determined by mangroves.

Answer

C