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Coastal Ecosystems and Marine Biodiversity Quiz

#1

Which of the following is NOT a threat to coastal ecosystems?

Deforestation
Explanation

Physical alteration of coastal areas, not directly affecting marine ecosystems.

#2

What is the primary source of energy in most coastal ecosystems?

Solar energy
Explanation

Solar radiation powers photosynthesis and drives ecosystem processes.

#3

Which of the following is a characteristic of a coral reef ecosystem?

Warm, clear waters
Explanation

Required for the growth of symbiotic algae.

#4

Which of the following is a primary producer in coastal ecosystems?

Seagrass
Explanation

Generates organic material through photosynthesis.

#5

What is the term for the area where a river meets the sea?

Estuary
Explanation

Transition zone supporting unique habitats and species.

#6

What is the term for the area where the ocean meets the land?

Intertidal zone
Explanation

Subject to periodic exposure and immersion, supporting adaptable life forms.

#7

Which of the following is an example of a keystone species in marine ecosystems?

Seagrass
Explanation

Crucial in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem structure.

#8

What is the term for the area where freshwater from rivers and streams meets the saltwater of the ocean?

Estuary
Explanation

Highly productive ecosystems supporting diverse life forms.

#9

Which of the following is a characteristic of a mangrove ecosystem?

High biodiversity
Explanation

Host diverse species and serve as nursery grounds.

#10

What is the name for the phenomenon where marine animals migrate vertically in the water column?

Vertical migration
Explanation

Strategy for feeding, avoiding predators, and optimizing conditions.

#11

What is the name of the phenomenon where ocean water layers have different temperatures and do not easily mix?

Thermocline
Explanation

Forms a barrier to vertical water movement and nutrient mixing.

#12

Which of the following is NOT a type of coastal ecosystem?

Taiga
Explanation

Taiga is a terrestrial ecosystem, not coastal.

#13

What is the process by which coral reefs expel their symbiotic algae and turn white called?

Coral bleaching
Explanation

Result of stressors causing loss of colorful algae.

#14

Which of the following is NOT a function of seagrass beds in coastal ecosystems?

Decreasing water clarity
Explanation

Seagrasses improve water clarity through their structure.

#15

What is the main threat to sea turtles in coastal environments?

Habitat destruction
Explanation

Loss of nesting sites and feeding areas endanger sea turtles.

#16

Which of the following is a characteristic of coral reef biodiversity?

High species diversity
Explanation

Vast array of species coexisting in the coral reef ecosystem.

#17

What is the term for the process of converting carbon dioxide into organic compounds by photosynthetic organisms?

Carbon fixation
Explanation

Essential for primary production and carbon cycling in ecosystems.

#18

What is the name of the area where freshwater rivers and streams meet the saltwater of the ocean, characterized by fluctuating salinity?

Estuarine zone
Explanation

Unique environment supporting brackish water species adapted to changing salinity.

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