3 - The Coastal Marine Environment and the Two Oceans Flashcards
What is the temperature range of the Indian Ocean
18°C to 27°C
What is upwelling, and where does it occur?
Upwelling is the process where cold, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, driven by southeasterly winds. It occurs along the west coast of South Africa.
What are the two main ocean currents affecting the South African coastline?
The Agulhas Current (warm) and the Benguela Current (cold).
What are the four types of coastal habitats found in South Africa?
Sandy shores, rocky shores, estuaries, and coral reefs.
What role do estuaries play in the marine environment?
Estuaries serve as nurseries for over 100 species of marine life, offering protection and rich food supplies for juvenile species.
Name the three main coastal regions of Southern Africa.
Indo-West Pacific Province, Agulhas Province, and Benguela Province.
What is the difference in biodiversity between the Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean?
The Indian Ocean (east coast) has warm, clear water with high biodiversity but fewer nutrients. The Atlantic Ocean (west coast) has cold, nutrient-rich waters with fewer species but larger populations, such as kelp forests and rock lobsters.
What are the three ways the oceans influence the coastal land?
1) Shaping the land through erosion and deposition, 2) Moderating temperatures near the coast, and 3) Influencing rainfall patterns by carrying moisture-laden air.
How do the two major ocean currents influence the coastal marine environment of South Africa?
The Agulhas Current (warm) flows along the east coast, bringing warm, nutrient-poor water, while the Benguela Current (cold) flows along the west coast, bringing cold, nutrient-rich water that supports a high level of marine productivity.
What is upwelling, and why is it important for the marine ecosystem?
Upwelling occurs when surface water is blown away by wind, allowing cold, nutrient-rich water from the deep sea to rise. This process is crucial for supporting phytoplankton growth, which forms the base of the marine food chain.
How do the Agulhas and Benguela currents impact marine biodiversity?
The warm Agulhas Current supports coral reefs and tropical species, while the cold Benguela Current fosters large populations of fish, plankton, and marine mammals due to the nutrient-rich waters.
Describe the key differences between the three coastal regions of Southern Africa.
1) Indo-West Pacific Province: Warm, nutrient-poor waters, diverse marine life with many predators. 2) Agulhas Province: Intermediate region with warm temperate conditions and migratory species. 3) Benguela Province: Cold, nutrient-rich waters, fewer species but large populations of fish and invertebrates.
What are the four ways in which the land influences the ocean?
1) Ocean currents are deflected by landmasses, 2) Rivers introduce fresh water, sediments, and nutrients, 3) Coastal features like cliffs and dunes shape water movement, and 4) Erosion and runoff affect salinity and turbidity.
Why are estuaries important for marine species?
Estuaries provide shelter, high temperatures, and abundant food for juvenile marine species, making them ideal nursery grounds.
What are the major types of coastal habitats found in Southern Africa?
Sandy shores, rocky shores, estuaries, and coral reefs.
