Benthic Zone Depth
The depth of the benthic zone can vary from a few inches to 6,000 meters. It has high pressure and temperature ranges from 2-4 degree Celsius. The benthic zone is divided into four zones on the basis of depth:
- Nearshore and Estuarine zones (Less than 200 meters): This zone receives good amount of light for photosynthesis. It supports various marine life forms.
- Bathyal zone (200 to 2,000 meters): In this zone, the penetration of the sunlight is limited and here organisms have adapted to low level of light.
- Abyssal zone (2,000 to 6,000 meters): The abyssal zone is characterized by extremely high pressure, low temperatures, and total darkness.
- Hadal zone (Over 6,000 meters): It forms the deepest parts of the ocean and here organisms have adapted to extreme temperature and pressure conditions.
Benthic Zone – Definition & Characteristics
The Benthic zone is the ecological region at the lowest level of a body of water such as a lake, ocean, and some sub-surface. The zone is characterized by low temperature, high pressure, and limited sunlight. The organisms that live in the benthic zone include bacteria, sea stars, and sea urchins. They play a significant role in nutrient cycling and act as a source of food for other aquatic organisms. In this article, we will learn about the benthic zone, its examples, animals, plants, and importance.
Table of Content
- Benthic Zone Definition
- Benthic Zone
- Benthic Zone Diagram
- Characteristics of Benthic Zone
- What are Benthos?
- Types of Benthic Zone
- Benthic Zone Examples
- Benthic Zone Animals
- Benthic Zone Depth
- Nutrient Flow
- Difference Between Pelagic and Benthic zone
- Importance of the Benthic Zone
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