distinguish between the biota of the pelagic and benthic zones of the oceans with examples. answer in 150 words
Hi Aspirant,
- The benthic zone is the layer closest to the bottom of the water body, while the pelagic zone belongs to the uppermost layers of the water body.
- The species living in the benthic area are coined as 'benthos,' and the organisms residing in the pelagic regions are referred to as pelagic organism.
- In terms of the open sea, the benthic zone is characterized by low temperatures, low dissolved oxygen levels, low/no light and high pressures. There is however a gradient in the pelagic zone from top to bottom.
- When we equate the diversity in these areas, the rich pelagic waters have higher diversity than the benthic zone with lower wealth.
- Photosynthesis does take place in the epipelagic zone, but the benthic zone does not get enough light.
- Pelagic food webs are dominated by photosynthesis, while benthic ecosystems are usually powered by detritus drifting from the upper layers.
- No photosynthetic organism can be found in the benthic region; it is inhabited by detritivores and scavengers. Photosynthetic species as well as active predators are dominant in the pelagic zone.
- Most of all creatures in the benthic zone are bottom-dwellers or sessile animals, while all creatures in the pelagic zone are free-living.
Thank you