Aquatic Ecosystems

Front

What are the nonliving factors that affect all aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Sunlight, temperature, oxygen, and salt content.

Front

What type of ecosystems include streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes?

Back

Freshwater ecosystems.

Front

What is an estuary?

Back

An area where the fresh water of a river meets the salt water of an ocean.

Front

What is the neritic zone?

Back

A region of shallow water where many living things, such as algae and schools of fish, live.

Front

How do lakes compare to ponds in terms of size and depth?

Back

Lakes are generally larger and deeper than ponds.

Front

What is the primary source of energy for aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Sunlight.

Front

What role does oxygen play in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Oxygen is essential for the survival of aquatic organisms, as it is needed for respiration.

Front

What is salinity, and why is it important in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Salinity is the salt concentration in water, and it affects the types of organisms that can live in an ecosystem.

Front

What are the two main types of aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Freshwater ecosystems and marine ecosystems.

Front

What is the difference between a pond and a lake?

Back

Ponds are generally smaller and shallower than lakes.