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Define aquatic biome.
Biome characterized by the presence of water, either freshwater or saltwater.
Define freshwater biome.
Aquatic biome with low salinity, including lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
Define marine biome.
Aquatic biome with high salinity, including oceans, coral reefs, and estuaries.
Define eutrophic lake.
Lake with high productivity due to abundant nutrients.
Define mesotrophic lake.
Lake with moderate productivity.
Define oligotrophic lake.
Lake with low productivity due to limited nutrients.
Define littoral zone.
Shallow area near the shore of a lake or pond with high photosynthesis.
Define limnetic zone.
Open water zone of a lake or pond, as far as sunlight can reach.
Define profundal zone.
Deep zone of a lake where sunlight does not reach.
Define benthic zone.
The muddy bottom of a lake, ocean, or other body of water.
Define salt marsh.
Coastal wetland with non-woody plants, often found in estuaries.
Define mangrove swamp.
Coastal wetland with salt-tolerant trees with submerged roots.
Define intertidal zone.
Area of coastline between high and low tide lines.
Define coral bleaching.
Loss of algae within corals, causing them to turn white and potentially die.
Define photic zone.
The upper layer of the ocean where sunlight penetrates, allowing photosynthesis.
Define aphotic zone.
The deep layer of the ocean where sunlight does not penetrate.
What is the effect of nutrient runoff on coastal wetlands?
Eutrophication, algal blooms, reduced oxygen levels, and decreased biodiversity.
What is the effect of rising sea levels on coastal wetlands?
Inundation, habitat loss, and saltwater intrusion.
What causes coral bleaching?
Ocean acidification and rising temperatures.
What is the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems?
Coral bleaching, habitat loss, and changes in species distribution.
What is the effect of pollution on aquatic biomes?
Toxin introduction, habitat destruction, and decreased biodiversity.
What is the effect of dredging on coastal wetlands?
Habitat destruction.
What is the effect of development on coastal wetlands?
Habitat loss.
Why are aquatic biomes important?
Vital for biodiversity, water cycle, habitats, and human activities like food and recreation.
Why do rivers have high oxygen?
Fast-moving water increases oxygen levels, benefiting aquatic life.
What is the importance of wetlands?
Prevent floods, filter pollutants, and provide habitat for migrating birds.
Why are salt marshes productive?
Rivers bring nutrients, supporting plant growth and coastal protection.
What role do mangrove roots play?
Protect coastline from storms and provide habitat.
Why are coral reefs biodiverse?
Provide complex three-dimensional habitats supporting many species.
Why do corals need sunlight?
They rely on photosynthetic algae for food.
What is the significance of the photic zone?
Sunlight allows photosynthesis, supporting primary production.
Why are intertidal zones challenging?
Organisms must adapt to changing conditions like alternating submersion and exposure.
What are ecosystem services?
Benefits biomes provide, such as water filtration, flood control, and habitat.
What factors influence productivity?
Nutrient availability, sunlight, and temperature.