Marine Ecosystems Flashcard

Front

What type of waters are kelp forests typically found in?

Back

Cold, nutrient-rich waters near coastlines.

Front

What is the name of the ocean zone characterized by complete darkness?

Back

Abyssopelagic.

Front

What adaptation helps hatchetfish survive in the mesopelagic zone?

Back

Camouflage from predators by shiny, reflective bodies.

Front

What does the term 'marine snow' refer to?

Back

Organic particles that fall from the upper layers of the ocean.

Front

What is another name for the epipelagic zone?

Back

The sunlight zone.

Front

What are the primary producers in a marine ecosystem?

Back

Phytoplankton.

Front

What role do zooplankton play in marine ecosystems?

Back

They serve as a primary consumer, feeding on phytoplankton.

Front

What is the significance of coral reefs in marine ecosystems?

Back

They provide habitat and shelter for many marine organisms.

Front

What is the difference between the neritic and oceanic zones?

Back

Neritic zone is near the coast and shallow, while oceanic zone is deeper and farther from land.

Front

How does temperature vary in the oceanic zones?

Back

Temperature decreases with depth, with the warmest waters found in the epipelagic zone.