What are ocean ecosystems?

Front

What is a hydrothermal vent?

Back

A volcanic spot on the ocean floor that releases heated water and minerals.

Front

What happens to water pressure as oceans become deeper?

Back

Water pressure increases.

Front

What are marine organisms that can swim freely called?

Back

Nekton.

Front

Describe the conditions at the bottom of the ocean.

Back

The bottom of the ocean is very cold and dark.

Front

What is the midnight zone in the ocean?

Back

A zone that is completely dark, very cold, has little life, and immense pressure.

Front

What is plankton?

Back

Tiny marine organisms that drift in the ocean currents.

Front

What is benthos?

Back

Organisms that live on or near the ocean floor.

Front

What is the sunlight zone?

Back

The upper layer of the ocean where sunlight penetrates, allowing photosynthesis.

Front

What is the twilight zone?

Back

The layer of the ocean that receives some light but is not enough for photosynthesis.

Front

What is the importance of coral reefs in ocean ecosystems?

Back

Coral reefs provide habitat and shelter for many marine organisms.