CH6: VOCABULARY - BIOMES & AQUATIC SYSTEMS

Aphotic zone

• The layer where sunlight penetrates and photosynthesis occurs.

• The layer below the photic zone where no sunlight penetrates, preventing photosynthesis.

• The surface layer of an aquatic ecosystem where light is abundant.

• The layer above the aphotic zone that supports aquatic life.

Climatograph

• A diagram that shows an area’s average temperature and precipitation.

• A chart that displays the population density of a region.

• A map that indicates the geographical features of an area.

• A graph that represents the economic growth of a country.

Limnetic zone

• The portion of the photic zone that is closer to shore than the littoral zone; rooted plants are abundant in this zone.

• The portion of the photic zone that is farther from shore than the littoral zone; no rooted plants are found in this zone.

• The deepest part of the ocean where no light penetrates; characterized by extreme pressure and cold temperatures.

• A shallow area near the shore where sunlight penetrates and supports aquatic plants.

Littoral zone

• The deep ocean floor where no light penetrates.

• The shallow near-shore portion of the photic zone.

• The area of the ocean where coral reefs are found.

• The open water area of a lake or ocean.

Epiphyte

• A type of soil that retains moisture.

• A plant that grows on other plants instead of in soil.

• A species of fungi that decomposes organic matter.

• A type of insect that lives on trees.

Permafrost

• Permanently frozen soil.

• Soil that is always wet.

• Soil that is rich in nutrients.

• Soil that is easily eroded.

Coniferous

• A tree that loses its leaves in winter.

• A tree bearing cones that typically does not lose its leaves.

• A type of tree that grows in tropical regions.

• A tree that produces flowers and fruits.

Benthic zone

• The top layer of an aquatic ecosystem.

• The middle layer of an aquatic ecosystem.

• The bottom layer of an aquatic ecosystem.

• The layer where sunlight penetrates the most.

Estuary

• An ecosystem located where a river flows into the ocean, mixing fresh water with salt water.

• A freshwater lake that is isolated from the ocean.

• A coastal area where the land meets the sea, characterized by sandy beaches.

• A type of wetland that is permanently flooded with salt water.

Salinity

• A measurement of the amount of salts dissolved in water.

• The process of removing salt from water.

• The total amount of minerals in water.

• A method of measuring water temperature.