Ecosystems: Aquatic Ecosystems

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What is an aquatic ecosystem?

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An aquatic ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) that live in water environments, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and estuaries.

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What are biotic factors in an ecosystem?

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Biotic factors are all the living things in an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria.

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What are abiotic factors in an ecosystem?

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Abiotic factors are all the nonliving things in an ecosystem, including water, sunlight, temperature, soil, and air.

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What is the difference between freshwater and saltwater ecosystems?

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Freshwater ecosystems contain low concentrations of salt, such as rivers and lakes, while saltwater ecosystems, like oceans and estuaries, have high salt concentrations.

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What is an estuary?

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An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, creating a nutrient-rich environment.

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Name three animals that live in aquatic ecosystems.

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Ducks, turtles, and amphibians.

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What is the role of sunlight in aquatic ecosystems?

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Sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, allowing aquatic plants to produce oxygen and food, which supports the entire ecosystem.

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What is biodiversity in an ecosystem?

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in an ecosystem, including different species of plants, animals, and microorganisms.

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How do abiotic factors affect aquatic ecosystems?

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Abiotic factors like temperature, light, and water quality influence the types of organisms that can live in an aquatic ecosystem and their overall health.

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What is the importance of wetlands in aquatic ecosystems?

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Wetlands act as natural filters, improve water quality, provide habitat for wildlife, and help in flood control.