Aquatic Ecosystems Study guide

Front

What do wetlands and estuaries purify and filter out?

Back

Pollution.

Front

What is the process called when too many nutrients in water cause algae blooms and oxygen loss?

Back

Eutrophication.

Front

How is the Limnetic Zone in lakes and ponds best described?

Back

Open water with plankton and fish.

Front

Why is measuring dissolved oxygen (DO) important to scientists?

Back

It helps scientists see how healthy rivers, lakes, and oceans are.

Front

Which of the following is NOT a freshwater ecosystem?

Back

An estuary.

Front

What are the primary functions of wetlands?

Back

Wetlands purify water, filter pollutants, and provide habitat for wildlife.

Front

What is the significance of estuaries in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Estuaries serve as nurseries for many marine species and filter pollutants from rivers before they enter the ocean.

Front

Define eutrophication in the context of aquatic ecosystems.

Back

Eutrophication is the process where excess nutrients in water bodies lead to algal blooms and subsequent oxygen depletion.

Front

What role do plankton play in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Plankton are primary producers and serve as a food source for many aquatic organisms.

Front

What is the difference between freshwater and saltwater ecosystems?

Back

Freshwater ecosystems have low salt concentration, while saltwater ecosystems, like oceans, have high salt concentration.