Marine Flashcard

Front

What does the term 'nekton' refer to in marine biology?

Back

Nekton refers to aquatic animals that are capable of swimming freely and actively in the water column, such as fish and squid.

Front

What type of ocean currents are associated with upwellings?

Back

Upwellings are most closely associated with deep water currents, which bring nutrient-rich water from the ocean depths to the surface.

Front

Where are benthos organisms typically found?

Back

Benthos organisms are typically found at the bottom of bodies of water, including oceans, lakes, and rivers.

Front

What is the primary role of producers in a marine food chain?

Back

Producers, such as phytoplankton, produce energy from sunlight through photosynthesis, forming the base of the food chain.

Front

Which mineral is commonly used in batteries?

Back

Nickel is a mineral that is often used in batteries, particularly in rechargeable nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries.

Front

What is the difference between plankton and nekton?

Back

Plankton are organisms that drift in the water and cannot swim against currents, while nekton are active swimmers that can move independently of water currents.

Front

What is the significance of upwellings in marine ecosystems?

Back

Upwellings are significant because they bring nutrient-rich waters to the surface, supporting high productivity and diverse marine life.

Front

Define 'benthos' in the context of marine environments.

Back

Benthos refers to organisms that live on or near the bottom of aquatic environments, including both plants and animals.

Front

What role do decomposers play in marine ecosystems?

Back

Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem and supporting the growth of producers.

Front

What is the primary source of energy for marine producers?

Back

The primary source of energy for marine producers is sunlight, which they use to perform photosynthesis.