Types of Benthic Zone
The benthic zone is made up of the ocean floor and is divided into different zones, including:
- Intertidal or Littoral Zone: The littoral zone extends from the high-water mark to the shore and represent the shallow coastal area that receives ample amount of sunlight.
- Supralittoral Zone: The zone is present above the high tide mark and receives enough sunlight for the photosynthesis.
- Sublittoral Zone: The zone extends from the low tide mark to the edge of the continental shelf. This part of the zone receives only small amount of light.
- Bathyal Zone: This zone extends from the edge of the continental shelf to a depth of about 4,000 meters.
- Abyssal Zone: This zone extends from depths of about 4,000 meters to 6,000 meters.
- Hadal Zone: This is the deepest part of the ocean, found in oceanic trenches that exceed depths of 6,000 meters.
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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