Which statement best distinguishes salt marshes from tidal freshwater marshes and describes their shared ecological roles?

• A. Salt marshes are coastal wetlands in saline or brackish waters dominated by halophytic grasses; tidal freshwater marshes occur where salinity is low but influence of tides occurs; both filter pollutants, trap sediments, store carbon, and provide habitat.
• B. Salt marshes are freshwater wetlands dominated by mangroves, while tidal freshwater marshes are salt-tolerant prairies; both produce high salinity.
• C. Salt marshes have no role in carbon storage; tidal freshwater marshes are coral habitats.
• D. Salt marshes are inland wetlands; tidal freshwater marshes are offshore.

Answer: (A)