A vertically striped buoy may be ______.

The correct answer relates to the types of buoys marked with vertical stripes, which are typically used in marine navigation to convey specific information to mariners. A vertically striped buoy that is lighted with a white light is often used to signify a safe navigation route or to denote specific features in the waterway.

Lighted buoys provide visibility at night and during low visibility conditions, allowing mariners to recognize the buoy's significance even in darkness. The white light indicates that the buoy should be approached or navigated around safely, as it serves to mark buoyage systems or relevant waterway features.

The other options present various color combinations or lighting colors that do not accurately represent the function of a vertically striped buoy in navigational contexts. For instance, while black and yellow or black and green striped buoys may exist, they are not designated as lighted buoys per standard navigational practices.