Aquatic Biodiversity and Freshwater Resources

These flashcards cover key concepts related to aquatic biodiversity, freshwater management, and environmental issues affecting aquatic ecosystems.

Aquatic Biodiversity

The variety of life found in water environments such as oceans, rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

Freshwater

One of the earth’s most important forms of natural capital, primarily found in rivers, lakes, and aquifers.

Hydrologic Cycle

The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the earth's surface.

Virtual Water

Water that is used to produce food and other products.

Aquifers

Underground layers of water-bearing rocks that can yield significant water when tapped.

Cultural Eutrophication

Nutrient overload caused by human activity leading to excessive growth of algae in aquatic systems.

Overpumping

Extracting groundwater faster than it is replenished, leading to decreased water tables.

Benthic Zone

The ecological region at the lowest level of a body of water including the sediment surface.

Eutrophic Lakes

Lakes with high nutrient levels, leading to high productivity but often murky waters.

Point Source Pollution

Pollution that can be traced back to a single source or location, such as a factory.

Nonpoint Source Pollution

Pollution that does not originate from a single point but rather from multiple sources often spread across a wide area.

Groundwater Contamination

Pollution that occurs when harmful substances seep into groundwater.

Tidal Zone

The area of shore between the high tide and low tide.

Salinity

The concentration of salts in water, an important factor in determining aquatic life zones.

Decomposers

Organisms, primarily bacteria, that break down dead organic material.

Sewage Treatment

The process of removing contaminants from wastewater and household sewage.

Inland Wetlands

Areas that are saturated with water for part of the year, providing critical ecosystem services.

Climate Change

Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, affecting aquatic ecosystems.

Invasive Species

Non-native species that disrupt local ecosystems and can lead to extinction of native species.

Aquatic Systems

Ecosystems that are water-based, including both freshwater and saltwater environments.

Sustainable Fisheries

Fishing practices that maintain fish populations at healthy levels for future generations.