Which is NOT a benefit of xenophyophores in a habitat? 1 They maintain benthic biodiversity.
2 They increase populations of isopods, mollusks, and crustaceans.
3 They churn up sediments that build up on the ocean floor.
4 They convert salt and iron into energy and nutrients.

The correct answer is 4. They convert salt and iron into energy and nutrients.

Explanation

Xenophiophores are large single-celled organisms generally found deep in the deep sea. They are characterized by being very delicate organisms, which makes it difficult for scientists who intend to study them since they are easily damaged by manipulation. However, in the studies that have been carried out on these organisms, it has been found that they are irreplaceable agents in the sediment deposition process and the maintenance of the biological diversity of benthic organisms. Also, it has been shown that in the areas where these organisms are found there are three to four times more benthic crustaceans, echinoderms, and mollusks than the equivalent areas not inhabited by these organisms. On the other hand, none of these studies has proven that They convert salt and iron into energy and nutrients. Therefore, the correct answer is 4. They convert salt and iron into energy and nutrients.