APES 8-2: Aquatic Biodiversity

Three major life zones within reservoirs

Coastal zone

Open sea

Ocean bottom

coastal zone

the warm, nutrient-rich, shallow water that extends from the high-tide mark on land to the gently sloping, shallow edge of the continental shelf. Usually high npp

Open sea zone

nutrients are scarce; limited number of animals, contains phytoplankton- free floating microscopic plants

ocean bottom zone

One of the most species-rich communities.

Ecological services from marine ecosystems

Climate moderation

CO2 absorption

Nutrient cycling

Waste treatment

Reduced storm impacts (mangroves, barrier islands, coastal wetlands)

Habitats and nursery areas

Genetic resources and biodiversity

Economical services of marine ecosystems

Food

Animal and pet feed

Pharmaceuticals

Harbors and transportation routes

Coastal habitat as for humans.

Recreation

Employment

Building materials

Euphotic zone

Upper layer of a body of water through which sunlight can penetrate and support photosynthesis.

bathyal zone

Extends from the edge of the neritic zone to the base of the continental shelf

Abyssal zone

The portion of the ocean floor where light does not penetrate and where temperatures are cold and pressures intense.

Estuaries and coastal wetlands

river mouths, inlets, bays, sounds, salt marshes, mangrove forests

Importance of mangrove forests

They protect shorelines by acting as a natural barrier against storms and waves while sustaining local economies through fishing, aquaculture, and eco-tourism.

Importance of seagrass beds

Support a variety of marine species

Stabilize shorelines

Reduce wave impact

Ecological services of estuary and coastal wetlands

Filter toxic pollutants, excess plant nutrients, and sediments.

Economical services of estuary and coastal wetlands.

Provide food, timber, fuelwood, and habitats

Reduce storm damage

Sandy shores

or beaches are loose deposits of sand, gravel or shells that cover the shoreline in many places. They make up two-thirds of the world's ice-free coastlines

Organisms within sandy shores

Crabs, beach fleas, sand dollars,

Organisms in rocky shorts

Sea stars, hermit crabs, mussels, sea urchins

Where are buildings built on sand dunes

The back dune, behind the primary dune.

Upwellings