...article: Marine ecosystem Marine ecosystems cover approximately 71% of the Earth's surface and contain approximately 97% of the planet's water. They generate 32% of the world's net primary production.[1] They are distinguished from freshwater ecosystems by the presence of dissolved compounds, especially salts, in the water. Approximately 85% of the dissolved materials in seawater are sodium and chlorine. Seawater has an average salinity of 35 parts per thousand (ppt) of water. Actual salinity varies among different marine ecosystems.[2] Marine ecosystems can be divided into the following zones: oceanic (the open part of the ocean where animals such as whales, sharks, and tuna live); profundal (bottom or deep water); benthic (bottom substrates); intertidal (the area between high and low tides); estuaries; salt marshes; coral reefs; and hydrothermal vents (where chemosynthetic sulfur bacteria form the food base).[1] Classes of organisms found in marine ecosystems include brown algae, dinoflagellates, corals, cephalopods, echinoderms, and sharks. Fishes caught in marine ecosystems are the biggest source of commercial foods obtained from wild populations.[1] Environmental problems concerning marine ecosystems include unsustainable exploitation of marine resources (for example overfishing of certain species), marine pollution, climate change, and building on coastal areas.[1] Freshwater Freshwater ecosystem. Main article: Freshwater ecosystem Freshwater ecosystems cover 0.80%...
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...Fresh water ecosystems are very common across the United States. Fresh water ecosystems can consist of several different factors. A fresh water ecosystem will be around a body of water. The body of water is always fresh water, meaning that the body of water is non-salt water like the ocean. Fresh water ecosystems can be around a lake, river, stream, pond, wetland or other (National Geographic, n.d.). Often times, fresh water ecosystems consist of live vegetation, and animal life. The fresh water ecosystem uses the plants, vegetation, and animals as its own purity system and pollution control. The vegetation around a fresh water ecosystem includes different trees, plankton, algae, and others. In addition, there is normally a variety of different wild life in a fresh water ecosystem. Birds, fish, and mammals help maintain the fresh water ecosystem. The human population is continuously growing and as a result the resources available are being used to the point of changing the overall flow of ecosystems. Rivers, lakes, ponds and wetlands are an example of freshwater ecosystems. Naturally, these bodies of waters are important for reducing pollution, controlling floods and the homes for aquatic life (National Geographic, n.d.). Since human population is rising any number of current negative uses such as the overuse of fossil fuels has a negative impact on freshwater ecosystems. Acid rain is a result of high amounts of nitric and sulfuric acid released into the air. Emissions...
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...Ecosystems are everywhere and we hardly even notice. Even we, humans are a part of it. However, ecosystems are not exclusive to terrestrial regions since ecosystems are present even in the shallowest rivers to the great depths of the ocean. Aquatic ecosystems differ from terrestrial ecosystems because of course they are underwater. Nevertheless, both of these ecosystems are still composed of abiotic and biotic components. In aquatic ecosystems several species of marine and freshwater plants and animals are found. There various kinds of fish, turtles, dolphins, crabs, kelps seaweeds, mangroves and others that are present and they make up for the biotic part of the ecosystem. Also often found in ecosystems are of course water, soil, stones, and sand. These composes the abiotic part of the ecosystem along with other factors like temperature, salinity, and one of the most important of all is sunlight. These factors are not independent of each other but instead interwoven to a complex net of relationships. A great number of symbiotic relationships interplay in these ecosystems in order to maintain balance. One of this relationships would be mutualism in which both organisms benefit from this relationship. An example of this relationship is between the clownfish and the sea anemone. Another type symbiosis is commensalism. Commensalism is a form of symbiosis in which only organism benefits without harming the other. The hermit crab and the barnacles that grow in its shell is a...
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...Freshwater Ecosystem Fresh water ecosystems are very common across the United States. Fresh water ecosystems can consist of several different factors. A fresh water ecosystem will be around a body of water. The body of water is always fresh water, meaning that the body of water is non-salt water like the ocean. Fresh water ecosystems can be around a lake, river, stream, pond, wetland or other (National Geographic, n.d.). Often times, fresh water ecosystems consist of live vegetation, and animal life. The fresh water ecosystem uses the plants, vegetation, and animals as its own purity system and pollution control. The vegetation around a fresh water ecosystem includes different trees, plankton, algae, and others. In addition, there is normally a variety of different wild life in a fresh water ecosystem. Birds, fish, and mammals help maintain the fresh water ecosystem. The human population is continuously growing and as a result the resources available are being used to the point of changing the overall flow of ecosystems. Rivers, lakes, ponds and wetlands are an example of freshwater ecosystems. Naturally, these bodies of waters are important for reducing pollution, controlling floods and the homes for aquatic life (National Geographic, n.d.). Since human population is rising any number of current negative uses such as the overuse of fossil fuels has a negative impact on freshwater ecosystems. Acid rain is a result of high amounts of nitric and sulfuric...
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...Texas Watch Newsletter Lesson 1: Dissolved Oxygen Testing Water Quality Sampling Time Frame: Three 45-50 minute class Grade Level: 8th – 12th grade Overview: Dissolved Oxygen Dissolved oxygen is the form of oxygen in water that is freely available to aquatic plants and animals. Dissolved oxygen is vital to fish and other aquatic life and for the prevention of odors. Oxygen is transferred from the atmosphere into surface waters, as well as being produced by aquatic plants, algae and phytoplankton as a by-product of photosynthesis. Once dissolved in water, oxygen diffuses throughout a water body very slowly since distribution depends on the movement of aerated water by turbulence and currents, water flow and thermal upwelling. Traditionally, the level of dissolved oxygen has been accepted as the single most important indicator of a water body’s ability to support desirable aquatic life. The amount of oxygen required varies according to species and the stage of life of a species. Usually, dissolved oxygen levels of 5.0 to 6.0 part per million (ppm) are required for growth and activity. Dissolved oxygen levels below 3.0 ppm are stressful to most aquatic organisms. When levels fall below 2.0 ppm for an extended period of time, most fish will not survive. Oxygen is a particularly sensitive constituent because its availability during different times of day and times of year is influenced by temperature, other chemicals present in the water, and biological processes. Temperature...
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...parts or subsystems * Parts work interdependently * Grade 2- AZ Science Standard * Communicate the results and conclusions of an investigation (e.g., create terrarium) * Grade 2- AZ Science Standard * PO 2. Communicate with other groups to describe the results of the investigation. Learning Objectives: * Students will be able to identify two types of environments and list three characteristics for each. * Students will be able to understand the types of ecosystems * Students will be able to understand the importance of protecting and preserving our world around us Sub- Objectives: * To get the children actively involved in the outdoors. Show them that it’s important and can be extremely fun. Evidence of Mastery: * Assignment 1: Students will draw and label what a terrarium is in their journal * Assignment 2: Students will create a terrarium with their table mates. * Assignment 3: Students will take a short quiz on ecosystems * Assignment 4: Students will develop a personal action plan for their way to keep the environment safe. * Assignment 5: Students will present their plan to class in small groups. Unit Plan: Monday: Introduce the Environment and...
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...representative natural ecosystem in or near the Louisiana area such as a preserves or parks that are managed for native species. Once a representative is chosen, the major structural, and functional dynamics (processes) of that ecosystem including how it has changed over time will be explained. Next the subject is to explain how humans may have affected the ecosystem, and in conclusion an explanation of how that ecosystem’s structure and function can help or has helped to develop plans for its management, and restoration. The Nature Conservancy is a nonprofit organization that works in different countries and all 52 states to help safeguard important lands and waters for nature and people. The organization works to keep safe the plants, animals, and land free from decay by protecting the lands, and waters humans, and habitat need to survive. The organization also focuses on leaving a sustainable world for future generations. Clean water is a must for humans, and animals to live. Fresh water ecosystems provide water for plants, and fish for humankind to eat (Gomez, 2008). Not only in Louisiana, but also all around the world, rivers, and lakes are becoming contaminated, and this affects people, animals, and plants. Research shows that possibly by 2025 more than one-third of Earth’s population could face tremendous water shortages (Botkin & Keller, 2009). The Nature Conservancy works in many states, including Louisiana to shield from exposure freshwater ecosystems for humans...
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...Marine aquatic ecosystems are considered to be the largest of the aquatic ecosystems on Earth. They have a high salinity and include bodies of water such as the ocean, lagoon, the deep sea, and sea floors. Once of the marine ecosystems that has been a central focus, especially recently, is the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf of Mexico is located off of the Atlantic Ocean, and it is considered to have a tropical climate. According to epa.gov, The Gulf of Mexico is the ninth largest body of water in the world. Some of the species or habitants that dwell in the gulf are different types of whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and sea-birds. Along the sea floor there are coral reef situated. There are also large birds The Gulf of Mexico produces a variety of resources that we use. One of the main resources is the fisheries provided in the gulf. Fisheries in the gulf are considered one of the most productive in the world. In 2010, the estimated shellfish and commercial fish harvest from the gulf fisheries was estimated to be about 1.3 billion pounds (epa.gov). Agriculture is definitely affected by the Gulf of Mexico. There is currently an area that is called the dead zone. Within this area of the gulf, there is an excessive supply of nitrogen in this area due to fossil fuel combustion, crop cultivation, and synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. With the increase of nitrogen, there is a process that is called hypoxia that will occur. Many people believe that the species in the fisheries will be...
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...community is greatly influenced by the social and economic growth that occurs within it. Enhancing a community’s development, through the addition of recreational resources and opportunities, helps to establish it as a welcoming place for people to learn, work and play. We regard this project as an opportunity to develop a concept for a community-based resource, with our goal being to enhance the community’s growth and development. We plan to do this via the construction of a brand new aquatic center in the heart of the Waldorf, Maryland quarter of the Southern Prince George’s County. To honor and identify the region of its location, the center will be called “Southern Maryland Aquatics Center”. Many aquatic centers exist throughout the Maryland Area. These include facilities such as the Prince George’s County Sports and Learning Complex, The Theresa Banks Swimming Pool, and Greenbelt Aquatic and Fitness. These facilities have met much success over the course of their operation, and provide numerous aquatic-based activities to the local community. The aforementioned PG Sports and Learning has been home to various swimming competitions and has served as a place of practice for many local, scholastic swim teams. One of the great benefits of these facilities, is the employment opportunities they provide to members of the community in which they are located. It is these benefits that we wish to transfer and subsequently impart upon residents of the Southern Maryland area. Although this...
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...Deductive Reasoning Editorial: EPA. Opposes Plan on Runoff Pollution 1. Identify the type of reasoning employed. Deductive 2. Explain persuasive strengths and weaknesses in each piece. Strengths: The author used facts to support himself and lead to his conclusion about water run-off (Oil Spill) Weaknesses: He did not test out any other methods in which run-off can affect our population as far as aquatic life and the ecosystem 3. Clearly identify and explain elements of fact, value, and policy. Fact: Run-off is an organic and inorganic waste that will in fact harm the aquatic ecosystem starting with the simplest of macros including protozoa and reaching as far as the great white shark. Run-off originates from different chemicals including fertilizers and other nutrients for grass and soil we may use. Can lead to human health issues. Value: Saying that people do not respect the value of our aquatic ecosystem nor the overall health of our environment. Saying that we as one should come together and do our part in the environment to protect it from harmful cfcs and chemicals which contain Policy: Environmental safety should be our #1 priority as it is our basis for life. 4. In relation to the above, identify and explain values, attitudes, and beliefs. Attitudes: We could be facing more than just a loss of shrimp the Gulf because of an oil spill. Beliefs: Lead editorial: It’s easier for everyone to be responsible for their...
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...2014 Dr. Palestis Biodiversity Discussion Impacts of Biodiversity Loss on Ocean Ecosystem Services “Impacts of Biodiversity Loss on Ocean Ecosystem Services” by Worm et al. 2006, was an interesting paper to read. The article talks about the dangers and the effects humans are having on the marine ecosystems. It also touches on the importance and benefits that diversity has. As we all know, the marine ecosystems of the world have the ability to provide us with an array of different resources, most importantly, food. Because of us, through exploitation, pollution, and habitat destruction there are changes occurring within the biodiversity of the marine ecosystems. There have been observations within estuaries, coral reefs, and coastal and oceanic fishing communities that there is a rapid decrease in population, species, and entire functional groups. Due to diversity between producers and consumers, species are able to overcome/survive more such atrocities by allowing them to be stable and have higher efficiency of resources. When looking at coastal ecosystems, experiments conducted reveled a fast decline in native species since industrialization increased, causing pollution within waters. Systems that contained more diverse and species rich environments showed to be more stable causing them to have lower rates of collapse and extinction over time. When looking at the larger marine ecosystem there has been a larger collapse in the areas that are not as rich in different species...
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...Number 10, Winter 2003 Issues in Ecology Sustaining Healthy Freshwater Ecosystems Issues in Ecology Number 10 Winter 2003 Sustaining Healthy Freshwater Ecosystems SUMMARY Fresh water is vital to human life and economic well-being, and societies extract vast quantities of water from rivers, lakes, wetlands, and underground aquifers to supply the requirements of cities, farms, and industries. Our need for fresh water has long caused us to overlook equally vital benefits of water that remains in stream to sustain healthy aquatic ecosystems. There is growing recognition, however, that functionally intact and biologically complex freshwater ecosystems provide many economically valuable commodities and services to society. These services include flood control, transportation, recreation, purification of human and industrial wastes, habitat for plants and animals, and production of fish and other foods and marketable goods. Over the long term, intact ecosystems are more likely to retain the adaptive capacity to sustain production of these goods and services in the face of future environmental disruptions such as climate change. These ecosystem benefits are costly and often impossible to replace when aquatic systems are degraded. For this reason, deliberations about water allocation should always include provisions for maintaining the integrity of freshwater ecosystems. Scientific evidence indicates that aquatic ecosystems can be protected or restored by recognizing the following:...
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...in order to manage the sustainability of oil. Countries around the world cross-train and share ways on how to be more conservative with this energy resource. With all of these practices in place, there is irreparable damage in the freshwater aquatic and marine ecosystems when oil is deposited into the environment. Oil spills are something that can affect large bodies of water as well as small. It has been made known the affects it has had on oil drilling in our oceans but, oil spills can happen accidently or due to poor drilling practices in local areas as well. In the freshwater and aquatic arena, oil can be found. Rarely does it exist in its fundamental state as in most areas it must be processed. Although it is a natural resource, it is considered a localized resource due to it being found only in certain areas. It is also an exhaustible resource, which means that it is something that can run out, unlike air. When there is an oil spill in the freshwater or marine ecosystem, there is no mixture of these two liquids as the two are immiscible. Unfortunately the freshwater, which serves as a nesting ground and food source for many different species, it creates a threat to the inhabitants who rely on and live in that ecosystem. The aquatic species become smothered and the oil does nothing but cling to the plants and other living organisms. Many of the marine creatures become poisoned causing great damage to the environment. The human population is one that is ever...
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...Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change Hector Canseco SCI/256 04/30/2015 Carolyn Miller Freshwater Ecosystem is a relatively small in area about 1.8% of the earth’s surface. It consists of ponds and lakes which range in size from just a few square meters to thousands of square miles. All throughout the earth several are remnants from glaciers thousands of years ago. Many ponds are seasonal, lasting just a couple of months while lakes may exist for hundreds of years or more. Ponds and lakes may have limited species since they are often isolated from one another and from other water sources like rivers and oceans. Lakes and ponds are divided into three different zones, which are usually determined by depth and distance from the shoreline. Streams and rivers are also part of the fresh water ecosystem. These are bodies of flowing water moving in one direction. Streams and rivers can be found everywhere, they get their starts at headwaters, which may be springs, snowmelt or even lakes, and then travel all the way to their mouths, usually another water channel or the ocean. The type of a river or stream changes during the journey from the source to the mouth. The temperature is cooler at the source than it is at the mouth. The water is also clearer, has higher oxygen levels, and freshwater fish such as trout and bass can be found there. Towards the middle part of the stream or river, the width increases as does species, numerous aquatic green plants and algae can be found...
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...Freshwater is a renewable resource,due to rain, but it is not limitless. If people consume it faster than nature can replace it, the quality and the amount of freshwater sources that is remaining declines. Agriculture makes up a huge 70% of freshwater use. Crops like cotton,sugar and rice are especially thirsty and require a great amount of water to grow. It can take almost 5,000 litres of water to cultivate just 1 kg of rice. In the 2008 forecast for world rice production was 434.3 million tons of water [ USDA]. Water is crucial for farming. Lots of countries grow crops that are not suitable for the local weather and soil, due to government subsidies which make these crops profitable. When overproduction takes place, the salinity of the soil...
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