Marine Ecosystems: Oceans & Estuaries

A set of vocabulary flashcards derived from lecture notes on marine ecosystems, focusing on oceans and estuaries.

Ocean

A large open body of salt water that comprises much of Earth's hydrosphere.

Estuary

A partially enclosed area of land where freshwater from rivers meets saltwater from the ocean.

Salinity

The concentration of salt in water, measured in parts per thousand (ppt).

Brackish Water

Water that is a mix of fresh and saltwater, typically found in estuaries.

Biodiversity

The variety of life forms in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Ecosystem Services

The benefits provided by ecosystems to humans, including food, habitat, and climate regulation.

Great Biodiversity

A wide variety of living organisms in an ecosystem, which is especially high in estuaries due to nutrient-rich environments.

CO2 Absorption

The process by which oceans and estuaries absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change.

Human Impact on Estuaries

Activities such as coastal development, pollution, and overfishing that negatively affect the health of estuaries.

Nurseries of the Sea

A term used to describe estuaries due to their role as critical habitats for the reproductive cycles of many marine species.