Abiotic + biotic factors Flashcards
(4 cards)
Temperature and Light
change between high and low tides. During low tide, organisms are
exposed to direct sunlight and heat, leading to risks of desiccation (drying out
So, Organisms like limpets, barnacles, and periwinkles have adapted by developing hard shells
or behaviours such as clamping down on rocks to retain moisture and reduce exposure to heat.
Tidal Fluctuations
Tides create alternating periods of submersion and exposure. The upper shore is exposed to air longer, while
the lower shore stays submerged
So, Organisms show zonation - species like periwinkles dominate upper zones (high tolerance to
drying), while sea stars and seaweeds inhabit lower zones where conditions are more stable.
Wave Action
violent wave action which can dislodge organisms.
So, Species like mussels anchor themselves firmly using byssal threads, while barnacles secrete
a strong adhesive. Seaweeds have tough holdfasts and flexible bodies to withstand the force of waves.
Salinity
Increases due to evaporation or decreases with rainfall.
So, Organisms such as barnacles and mussels have developed osmoregulation mechanisms to maintain internal balance, and many hide in crevices to avoid drastic salinity shifts.