Marine Life and Ecosystem Dynamics

The video explores the dynamic ecosystem along the California coast, where ocean currents bring nutrients to the surface, supporting giant kelp forests. These kelp forests face threats from sea urchins, which can devastate large areas. The seabed is home to various invertebrates, with the sunflower starfish being a notable predator, preying on brittle stars and other creatures. The interactions within this ecosystem highlight the complex relationships between species and their environment.

What do ocean currents bring to the surface layers along the California coast?

• Warm water

• Nutrients

• Fish

• Sand

How tall can the algal towers of giant kelp grow?

• As high as a one-story house

• As high as a two-story house

• As high as a three-story house

• As high as a four-story house

What is the daily growth rate of giant kelp?

• 10 centimeters

• 20 centimeters

• 50 centimeters

• 30 centimeters

What do sea urchins target in their attack on kelp?

• Holdfasts

• Roots

• Stems

• Leaves

How many teeth does each sea urchin have?

• Four

• Three

• Five

• Six

What are the clearings created by sea urchins in kelp forests called?

• Urchin Fields

• Urchin Plains

• Urchin Deserts

• Urchin Barrens

What is the most fearsome predator in the urchin barrens?

• Great White Shark

• Sunflower Starfish

• Giant Squid

• Moray Eel

What does the sunflower starfish use to taste for prey?

• Feet

• Mouth

• Tentacles

• Eyes

What remains of the prey after the sunflower starfish feeds?

• White skeletons

• Bones

• Nothing

• Shells