Aquatic Ecosystems

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What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll, primarily converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

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Why does photosynthesis not occur in the deep ocean?

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Sunlight does not penetrate.

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What is chemosynthesis?

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Chemosynthesis is the process by which certain organisms, such as those found in hydrothermal vents, convert carbon molecules (usually carbon dioxide or methane) into organic matter using the oxidation of inorganic molecules (like hydrogen sulfide) as an energy source.

Front

What is the pelagic zone?

Back

The pelagic zone is the open ocean area that is not close to the bottom or the shore, characterized by its vastness and depth.

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What is the benthic zone?

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The benthic zone is the ecological region at the lowest level of a body of water, including the sediment surface and sub-surface layers.

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What is the oceanic zone?

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The oceanic zone refers to the entire water portion of the ocean, which is deeper than the neritic zone and extends from the continental shelf.

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What are wetlands?

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Wetlands are areas of land that are saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, and support aquatic plants.

Front

What is one benefit of wetlands?

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Wetlands can filter pollutants out of water.

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What is the neritic zone?

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The neritic zone is the part of the ocean that extends from the low tide mark to the edge of the continental shelf, rich in nutrients and biodiversity.

Front

What is a hydrothermal vent?

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A hydrothermal vent is a fissure on the seafloor that emits heated water enriched with minerals, supporting unique ecosystems.