Aquatic biomes

Question 1

What is zonation

Answer 1

Lakes and seas divided into zones according to light penetration, proximity to shore and bottom vs water column
Photic is light, fades to the Aphotic zone which is dark

Question 2

Estuaries

Answer 2

The transitions between rivers and sea, tidal-dynamic environment, great variation in salinity, important breeding or nursery habitats for many marine species.

Question 3

Intertidal zones

Answer 3

Periodically submerged and exposed by the tides, organisms require specific adaptations, zonation from upper to lower shore.

Question 4

Ocean pelagic zone

Answer 4

Vast areas of open water, phytoplankton accounts for 50% global photosynthesis
Lack of micro-nutrients can produce large areas of very low productivity.

Question 5

Coral reefs

Answer 5

Photic zone of tropical marine environments, mainly near islands, exceptionally high diversity, very sensitive to climate change