Ocean Ecosystems Quiz

What percentage of Earth's surface is covered by the world ocean?

• 50%

• 71%

• 85%

• 92%

What is the name of the riverlike flows in Earth's ocean driven by various factors?

• Tides

• Currents

• Storms

• Waves

What is the process called when surface water sinks in areas where ocean currents converge?

• Convergence

• Downwelling

• Divergence

• Upwelling

In which ocean zone does photosynthesis by phytoplankton primarily occur?

• Photic zone

• Benthic zone

• Aphotic zone

• Neritic zone

What are the tiny invertebrate animals related to sea anemones and jellyfish that form coral reefs?

• Anemones

• Mussels

• Urchins

• Corals

What is the primary cause of coral bleaching in coral reefs?

• All of the above

• Natural causes

• Pollutants

• Increased sea surface temperatures

What is the primary source of food for free-swimming animals in the open ocean?

• Rooted plants

• Detritus

• Phytoplankton

• Zooplankton

What adaptation do animals in the aphotic open-ocean zone have to live in the dark without food from plants?

• Bioluminescence

• Photosynthesis

• Scavenging

• Symbiotic bacteria

What is the primary source of energy for creatures in benthic ecosystems around hydrothermal vents?

• Detritus

• Chemicals in heated water

• Sunlight

• Symbiotic bacteria

What is the primary factor that drives ocean currents?

• Gravity

• Tides

• Temperature

• Wind