Asmall creek runs through a mature forest, keeping the soil around the creek damp all year. a variety of ferns and several flowering plants thrive in this shady, moist area. along the higher ground above the creek, many species of flowering plants that need less water grow. if a farmer diverted the creek to water his fields, causing the creek to dry up, what would be the most likely long-term consequence for the ferns and angiosperms in the forest?

The correct answer will be both ferns and angiosperms number will decrease in area.

Explanation:

The creek is a geographical term used for the minor tributary of a river. When this creek passes through any forest it can act as a source of water to the plants growing in nearby areas which requires plant for their growth and development.

In the given condition when this creek was diverted to the agriculture land caused drying up of creek which influenced plant life present it that area as:

1. Ferns: they will show a decline in their number as they require water not just for their growth but also to complete their life cycle. Their reproduction is incomplete without water as their male gametes need water for fertilization.

2. Angiosperms: the flowering plants will also decrease in the nearby area as they absorb water to maintain their structure, growth and development like water helps in the opening of petals of a flower (reproductive structure).

Thus, both ferns and angiosperms number will decrease in area is the correct answer.

the answer is cell division : )