ES Ch 7.1 Freshwater Ecosystems

Front

What is the littoral zone in a freshwater habitat?

Back

The littoral zone is characterized by shallow water where light reaches the bottom, allowing for the growth of aquatic plants.

Front

What adaptation do water beetles have for survival?

Back

Water beetles have hairs under their bodies that trap surface air, allowing them to breathe while submerged.

Front

What are benthos in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Benthos are organisms that live on the bottom of an aquatic ecosystem, often attached to hard surfaces.

Front

What is the role of decomposers in aquatic ecosystems?

Back

Decomposers break down dead and decaying organisms, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Front

What are plankton?

Back

Plankton are microscopic organisms that float or drift freely in the water, serving as a crucial part of the aquatic food web.

Front

What is the pelagic zone in freshwater ecosystems?

Back

The pelagic zone refers to the open water area of a freshwater body, where organisms swim actively.

Front

Define the term 'benthic zone'.

Back

The benthic zone is the ecological region at the lowest level of a freshwater body, including the sediment surface.

Front

What is the significance of aquatic plants in the littoral zone?

Back

Aquatic plants in the littoral zone provide habitat, food, and oxygen for various aquatic organisms.

Front

How do decomposers contribute to nutrient cycling in freshwater ecosystems?

Back

Decomposers break down organic matter, releasing nutrients back into the water, which supports plant growth.

Front

What is the difference between nekton and plankton?

Back

Nekton are actively swimming organisms in the water column, while plankton are mostly drifting or floating organisms.