unit 10 marine ecosystems

Nutrients

Primary limiting factor for photosynthesis in marine biomes.

Aquatic Biomes

Categorized by salinity, temperature, and sunlight.

Estuary

Where freshwater river meets ocean due to tides.

Disphotic Zone

Ocean zone with low photosynthesis rates.

Net Primary Productivity

Gross productivity minus cellular respiration.

Phytoplankton

Microscopic plants that photosynthesize in euphotic zone.

Thermocline

Layer where temperature changes rapidly, preventing mixing.

Upwelling

Nutrient stirring from ocean bottom to surface.

Coriolis Effect

Influences upwelling and nutrient distribution in oceans.

Coral Bleaching

Expulsion of zooxanthellae due to coral stress.

Euphotic Zone

Upper ocean layer where photosynthesis occurs.

Aquaculture Pros

Creates jobs and stabilizes income for fishermen.

Aquaculture Cons

Can pollute waters and affect wild fish populations.

Intertidal Zone

Area where ocean meets land.

Seastar Adaptation

Tolerates varying water and air levels.

Sea Urchin Adaptation

Can attach to substrates in intertidal zones.

Sea Anemone Adaptation

Adapts to wide range of water levels.

Light Penetration

Blues and greens penetrate deep into the ocean.

Climate Change Impact

Reduces nutrient upwelling, affecting ocean productivity.

High Productivity Areas

Lack thermoclines and have nutrient-rich conditions.

Low Productivity Areas

Thermoclines restrict nutrient flow in open ocean.