Chat with AI
Deck 15: Life Near the Surface
Full screen (f)
Question
Question
Unlock Deck
Sign up to unlock the cards in this deck!
Unlock Deck
Unlock Deck
1/2
Play
Full screen (f)
Deck 15: Life Near the Surface
Plankton are unable to swim effectively and drift about at the mercy of the currents. You might think that the currents would scatter planktonic organisms throughout the oceans, but many species are restricted to particular regions. What mechanisms might allow a species to maintain its characteristic distribution?
The life near the shore is quite complex in contrast to the other areas. This region is upto 200 m from the surface of water. It is a shallow region that is warm and supplied with ample amount of sunlight. It has the highest amount of photosynthesis when compared with the pelagic realm.
Planktons can maintain their characteristic distribution in the area by different processes. The primary process necessary for the maintenance of characteristic distribution is vertical migration. This process is based on the ability of phytoplanktons to move in the deeper waters for avoiding contact with the heavy water currents. The shape of the phytoplanktons provides drag against the water current and thus resist the transportation.
Planktons can maintain their characteristic distribution in the area by different processes. The primary process necessary for the maintenance of characteristic distribution is vertical migration. This process is based on the ability of phytoplanktons to move in the deeper waters for avoiding contact with the heavy water currents. The shape of the phytoplanktons provides drag against the water current and thus resist the transportation.
Spiny species of diatoms are found in warm subtropical waters as well as in colder areas. Since warm water is less dense than cold water, would you predict any differences between the spines of warm water and cold water individuals? Why?
The life near shore is quite complex in contrast to other areas. This region is upto 200 m from the surface of water. It is a shallow region that is warm and supplied with ample amount of sunlight. It has the highest amount of photosynthesis when compared with the pelagic realm.
Yes, significant difference would be observed in the diatoms present in warm and cold water. The diatoms present in warmer water would generally have larger and much abundant spines. The larger spines would allow the diatoms to float on the surface of low density warm water and allow the process of photosynthesis. On the contrary, the cold water would result in slow sinking of the diatoms in dense cold water.
Yes, significant difference would be observed in the diatoms present in warm and cold water. The diatoms present in warmer water would generally have larger and much abundant spines. The larger spines would allow the diatoms to float on the surface of low density warm water and allow the process of photosynthesis. On the contrary, the cold water would result in slow sinking of the diatoms in dense cold water.
Unlock Deck
Unlock for access to all 2 flashcards in this deck.
