Marine Ecosystems and Biodiversity Concepts

The lecture explores the vast and diverse ecosystems of the oceans, highlighting the unique life forms that inhabit deep ocean environments and their adaptations to extreme conditions. It discusses the evolution of ocean life and its impact on geochemistry, including the development of photosynthesis and biogenic calcification. The structure of marine food chains and the critical role of biodiversity are examined, alongside the challenges posed by human activities. The importance of sustainable management and conservation efforts to protect marine ecosystems and their vital functions is emphasized.

What is the primary reason the deep ocean is less explored than the moon's surface?

• The deep ocean is too cold.

• The deep ocean is too salty.

• The deep ocean is too dark.

• The deep ocean is too far from the surface.

How did the invention of a new type of photosynthesis impact Earth's atmosphere?

• It decreased the amount of carbon dioxide.

• It increased the amount of nitrogen.

• It made the atmosphere oxygenic.

• It reduced the amount of sulfur.

What is the starting point of the oceanic food chain?

• Seaweed

• Coral reefs

• Phytoplankton

• Large fish

Which group of organisms was recently discovered to have a significant diversity in the ocean?

• Microbes

• Birds

• Mammals

• Fish

Why is biodiversity crucial for marine ecosystems?

• It enhances their size.

• It increases their stability and productivity.

• It reduces the number of predators.

• It makes them more colorful.

What is a major concern with current mariculture practices?

• They require too much space.

• They produce too much food.

• They are not environmentally sustainable.

• They are too expensive.

What is one of the largest services the ocean provides to humankind?

• Producing electricity

• Generating wind

• Carbon sequestration

• Providing fresh water

What is a positive outcome of proper marine ecosystem management?

• Decreased biodiversity

• More frequent storms

• Recovery of fish stocks

• Increased pollution

What is a significant threat to marine biodiversity?

• Increased rainfall

• More sunlight

• Overfishing

• Decreased salinity

How do coral reefs benefit coastal areas?

• They increase water temperature.

• They provide coastal protection.

• They reduce fish populations.

• They increase wave height.