aquatic zonation Flashcards
(10 cards)
What is zonation in aquatic biomes?
Physical and chemical stratification both vertically and horizontally.
Why does light intensity decrease with depth in water?
Water and photosynthetic organisms absorb light.
What is the photic zone?
The upper layer of water where there is enough light for photosynthesis.
What is the aphotic zone?
The deeper layer with little or no light.
What is the pelagic zone?
The combined photic and aphotic zones in open water.
What is the abyssal zone?
The deep part of the aphotic zone, 2,000–6,000 meters below the surface.
What is the benthic zone?
The bottom of any aquatic zone, composed of sediment.
Who inhabits the benthic zone?
Organisms called benthos.
What is detritus and why is it important?
Dead organic matter that sinks from surface waters and is a major food source for benthic organisms.
How is thermal energy distributed in aquatic zones?
Surface water warms from sunlight; deeper waters stay cold.
