Front

What is an estuary?

Back

An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

Front

What does the term 'biotic' refer to in an ecosystem?

Back

Biotic refers to the living parts of an ecosystem, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-1

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

Front

What is brackish water?

Back

Brackish water is a mixture of saltwater and freshwater, typically found in estuaries.

Front

What must organisms in estuaries be able to survive?

Back

Organisms in estuaries must be able to survive changing salt levels.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Front

What are biotic factors?

Back

Biotic factors are the living components of an ecosystem, such as animals, plants, and bacteria.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Front

What are abiotic factors?

Back

Abiotic factors are the non-living components of an ecosystem, such as water, soil, and temperature.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Front

Give an example of a biotic factor found in lakes and ponds.

Back

Turtles, algae, fish, and beavers are examples of biotic factors found in lakes and ponds.

Front

What is the primary source of energy for aquatic ecosystems?

Back

The primary source of energy for aquatic ecosystems is sunlight, which supports photosynthesis in aquatic plants.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

Front

What role do producers play in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Producers, like algae and aquatic plants, convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food web.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

Front

What is the significance of wetlands in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Wetlands act as natural filters, improve water quality, and provide habitat for many species.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3