Which statement best distinguishes the neritic zone from the open-ocean pelagic zone and explains why the neritic zone is typically more productive?

• A. The neritic zone is only in freshwater rivers.
• B. The neritic zone lies over the continental shelf from the low-tide line to the shelf break (about 0-200 m depth), is well-lit and nutrient-rich, while the open-ocean pelagic zone extends beyond the shelf into deeper waters with varying light and nutrient regimes; this light and nutrient availability makes the neritic zone more productive.
• C. The neritic zone has higher salinity than the pelagic zone due to distance from land.
• D. The neritic zone is deeper than the pelagic zone and receives less light.

Answer: (B)