Aquatic Ecosystems Overview

Flashcards covering the basic concepts of aquatic ecosystems, including types, characteristics, and human impacts.

What are the two main types of aquatic ecosystems?

Marine ecosystems and freshwater ecosystems.

What percentage of the Earth's surface is covered by the marine ecosystem?

Over 70 percent.

Name the five major oceans of the Earth.

Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, Arctic Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Southern (Antarctic) Ocean.

What defines estuaries?

Estuaries are areas where salt water from the sea is diluted with fresh water from rivers.

Why are coral reefs often referred to as the 'rainforests of the oceans'?

Because they are the world's second richest ecosystems, with a wide diversity of plants and animals.

What is a lotic ecosystem?

Lotic ecosystems are systems with rapidly flowing waters, such as rivers and streams.

What organisms are commonly found in lentic ecosystems?

Algae, rooted and floating-leaved plants, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles.

What is eutrophication?

An increase in nutrients (phosphates and nitrates) in aquatic ecosystems, often caused by sewage and fertilizers.

List one impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.

Pollution, overfishing, introduction of invasive species, or acidification.

What are the main threats to freshwater ecosystems?

Pollution, overuse, habitat alteration, and diversion of water.