Coastal Ecosystems Flashcard

Front

What is a coast?

Back

A coast is the general area where land and water meet, not a specific boundary.

Front

Name a mangrove species native to Florida.

Back

Red mangrove.

Front

Why are seagrass meadows, kelp forests, and mangrove forests important for wildlife?

Back

They make excellent nurseries for young wildlife because they offer many places to hide from predators.

Front

True or False: Kelp forests require low energy environments while mangroves and seagrass can withstand stronger waves and currents.

Back

False; the opposite is true.

Front

What is the relationship between kelp and seagrass?

Back

Kelp is algae (seaweed) while seagrass is a flowering plant; they are not related.

Front

What type of ecosystem do mangroves typically thrive in?

Back

Mangroves thrive in coastal intertidal zones where saltwater and freshwater mix.

Front

What role do seagrass meadows play in coastal ecosystems?

Back

Seagrass meadows provide habitat, stabilize sediments, and improve water quality.

Front

What is blue carbon?

Back

Blue carbon refers to carbon captured by oceanic and coastal ecosystems, particularly mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes.

Front

How do kelp forests contribute to marine biodiversity?

Back

Kelp forests provide habitat and food for a diverse range of marine species.

Front

What are the main threats to coastal ecosystems?

Back

Main threats include pollution, climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing.