All Flashcards
Why are aquatic biomes important?
They support biodiversity, play a role in the water cycle, and provide resources for humans.
What determines productivity in lakes?
Nutrient levels (nitrogen and phosphorus) determine productivity.
Why are wetlands important?
They prevent floods, filter pollutants, and provide habitat for migrating birds.
What is the significance of estuaries?
They are highly productive areas where freshwater rivers meet the ocean, providing nutrients and serving as nurseries for many species.
Why are mangrove swamps important?
They protect coastlines from storms and erosion and provide habitat for many species.
Why are coral reefs important?
They are highly biodiverse ecosystems that provide habitat for many species and protect coastlines.
What is the role of photosynthetic algae in coral reefs?
They provide food for corals and are essential for their survival.
What are ecosystem services?
Benefits that biomes provide, such as water filtration, flood control, and habitat.
Describe the importance of oxygen levels in streams and rivers.
Higher oxygen levels, typically found in fast-moving water, are essential for supporting freshwater fish and other aquatic life.
Explain the challenges faced by organisms in the intertidal zone.
Organisms must adapt to changing conditions, including being underwater during high tide and exposed to air and sun during low tide.
What is the effect of increased nutrient runoff on coastal wetlands?
Increased nutrient runoff leads to eutrophication, algal blooms, and reduced oxygen levels.
What is the effect of rising sea levels on coastal wetlands?
Rising sea levels can lead to inundation, habitat loss, and saltwater intrusion.
What causes coral bleaching?
Ocean acidification and rising temperatures cause coral bleaching.
What is the impact of pollution on aquatic biomes?
Pollution can introduce toxins, reduce water quality, and harm aquatic organisms.
What is the effect of climate change on marine ecosystems?
Climate change leads to ocean acidification, rising temperatures, and coral bleaching, affecting marine life.
What is the impact of dredging on coastal wetlands?
Dredging can destroy habitats and disrupt the ecosystem.
What is the impact of development on coastal wetlands?
Development can cause habitat loss and reduce the ability of wetlands to provide ecosystem services.
How do buffer zones help protect coastal wetlands?
Reduce nutrient runoff from agricultural fields.
How do cover crops help protect coastal wetlands?
Reduce nutrient runoff from agricultural fields.