Aquatic Biodiversity and Water Resources

These flashcards are designed to aid in the understanding and retention of key concepts related to aquatic biodiversity, water resources, and the impact of pollution and human activity on these ecosystems.

Freshwater

One of the earth's most important forms of natural capital, used inefficiently and polluted.

Virtual water

Water used to produce food and other products.

Hydrologic cycle

The movement of water in the seas, land, and air, distributed unevenly across the globe.

Aquifer

Underground layer of water-bearing rock that can be tapped for freshwater.

Eutrophication

Natural enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, which can lead to excessive growth of algae.

Cultural eutrophication

Eutrophication caused by human activities introducing nutrients into water bodies.

Point sources of pollution

Specific locations that discharge pollutants, e.g., factories or sewage treatment plants.

Nonpoint sources of pollution

Diffuse sources of pollution that are not easily traced to a single point, e.g., runoff from agricultural lands.

Overfishing

The rate of fish harvesting exceeds the reproductive capacity of fish stocks.

Invasive species

Non-native species that can disrupt and degrade ecosystems.

Climate change

Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns, impacting ecosystems globally.

Coastal wetlands

Coastal areas that are covered with water at least part of the year, providing critical habitat and ecosystem services.

Water footprint

The total volume of freshwater used to produce the goods and services consumed by an individual or community.

Aquatic ecosystem services

Benefits provided by aquatic ecosystems, including water filtration, habitat provision, and nutrient cycling.