MarSci Exam 1 Terms/Def

Sexual dimorphism

Differences in appearance, size, or coloration between males and females of the same species

Countershading

A form of camouflage where the animal's dorsal (top) side is darker and its ventral (underside) lighter, reducing visibility in the water column

Tropicalization

The process by which tropical species expand into temperate regions due to ocean warming

Facilitation

An interaction where one species benefits another, often by modifying the environment in a way that makes it more habitable

Competition

An interaction where organisms vie for the same limited resource, negatively affecting both

Science

The study of cause and effect using the scientific method

Benthic

Refers to organisms or habitats associated with the bottom of a sea, lake, or other body of water

Pelagic

Relating to the open ocean, away from the sea floor

Climate change

Long-term alteration of temperature, precipitation, and other climate patterns, often due to human activities

Ecosystem Engineer

An organism that modifies, creates, or maintains habitats, significantly affecting other species

Mutualism

A symbiotic relationship where both species benefit

Predation

An interaction in which one organism (the predator) kills and eats another (the prey)

Grazing

Feeding on plants or algae, usually without killing the organism

Carnivory

The act of feeding on other animals

Parasitism

A relationship in which one organism (the parasite) benefits while harming the host

Echolocation

The use of reflected sound waves by animals (like dolphins or bats) to locate objects or prey

Ecology

The scientific study of interactions between biotic and abiotic factors in an ecosystem

Radula

A tongue-like, toothed organ in mollusks used for scraping or cutting food

Scyphozoa

The class of "true jellyfish," characterized by a dominant medusa stage

Anthozoa

A class of cnidarians including corals and sea anemones, which exist only as polyps

Madreporite

A porous structure in echinoderms that regulates water entry into the water vascular system

Exoskeleton

A hard external covering that provides structure and protection to some animals

Cnidocyte

A specialized stinging cell found in cnidarians, containing a nematocyst used for defense or capturing prey

Spicule

A small, spike-like structural element found in sponges, providing support and protection