Texas Aquatic Ecosystems Flashcard

Front

What is a Riparian Zone?

Back

An area of transition between the stream edge and uplands that contains trees, shrubs, and grasses.

Front

What is a Hypoxic Zone?

Back

A dead zone in aquatic ecosystems where oxygen levels are too low to support most marine life.

Front

What is Infiltration in the context of water movement?

Back

The process by which water moves through the soil and into the groundwater system.

Front

What is a Reservoir?

Back

A large, man-made lake that supplies water for communities, electrical power, and recreation.

Front

Who is considered a secondary consumer in an aquatic ecosystem?

Back

A shark, which feeds on smaller fish and zooplankton.

Front

Define Aquatic Ecosystem.

Back

A water-based environment that supports a community of organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Front

What role do Algae play in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

They are primary producers that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis.

Front

What is the significance of Zooplankton in aquatic food webs?

Back

They serve as primary consumers, feeding on phytoplankton and being preyed upon by larger animals.

Front

Explain the term 'Buffer Zone' in relation to aquatic ecosystems.

Back

An area that helps protect water bodies from pollution and erosion by filtering runoff.

Front

What is Transpiration?

Back

The process by which water is absorbed by plants and released as vapor into the atmosphere.