Which lake zone includes the shallow sunlit water near the shore? 

A)  the benthic zone 
B)  the littoral zone 
C)  the limnetic zone 
D)  the profundal zone

Benthic Zone

The ecological region at the lowest level of a body of water such as an ocean or a lake, including the sediment surface and sub-surface layers.

Littoral Zone

The shallow nearshore area of a body of water, where sunlight can reach the bottom, supporting diverse aquatic plants and animals.

Limnetic Zone

The open surface waters in a freshwater habitat, away from the shore, where there is enough light penetration to support photosynthesis.