Texas Aquatic Science Chapter 11

What is the primary difference between a bay and an estuary?

• An estuary mixes freshwater with seawater, while a bay is directly connected to the ocean.

• A bay is fully enclosed by land, while an estuary is open to the ocean.

• A bay is always saltwater, while an estuary is always freshwater.

• An estuary is larger than a bay.

Why is freshwater inflow important in bays and estuaries?

• It reduces biodiversity.

• It prevents tides from occurring.

• It provides nutrients and sediments essential for aquatic life.

• It increases salinity levels.

What is a hypersaline bay?

• A bay with salinity levels lower than freshwater.

• A bay with salinity levels higher than average seawater.

• A bay with fluctuating salinity levels.

• A bay with no salinity.

Which bay in Texas is hypersaline?

• Galveston Bay

• Matagorda Bay

• Corpus Christi Bay

• Laguna Madre

What causes tides?

• Wind patterns over the ocean.

• Gravitational forces from the Earth, moon, and sun.

• Freshwater inflows from rivers.

• Temperature differences between land and water.

Why do tides affect aquatic life in bays and estuaries?

• They increase water temperature.

• They reduce oxygen levels in the water.

• They prevent fish from migrating.

• They create salinity gradients and influence water mixing.

What is the longest barrier island in the world?

• Corpus Christi Island

• Laguna Madre Island

• Padre Island

• Galveston Island

What is the primary function of barrier islands?

• They reduce biodiversity in estuaries.

• They prevent tides from occurring.

• They protect wetlands and coastal communities from storm surges.

• They increase salinity in bays.

What percentage of Texas’ commercially important species are found in estuaries during their life cycle?

• 50-60%

• 70-80%

• 90-95%

• 100%

What is the primary role of seagrass beds in estuaries?

• They increase salinity levels.

• They provide food and shelter for aquatic species.

• They prevent tides from occurring.

• They reduce oxygen levels in the water.