An aquatic ecosystem is a type of ecosystem that takes place in water. It encompasses all living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and their interactions with one another and the physical environment in water bodies, such as oceans, rivers, lakes, ponds, and wetlands.
Aquatic ecosystems can be broadly categorized into two main types:
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Freshwater Ecosystems: These include rivers, lakes, ponds, streams, and wetlands. They typically have low salt concentrations and support a variety of life forms, including fish, amphibians, invertebrates, and aquatic plants.
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Marine Ecosystems: These are saltwater environments, including oceans, coral reefs, and estuaries. Marine ecosystems are characterized by higher salinity and biodiversity and are home to organisms such as fish, marine mammals, mollusks, seaweed, and coral.
Aquatic ecosystems are influenced by various factors, including water chemistry, temperature, light availability, and physical features of the environment. They play crucial roles in global processes such as carbon cycling, oxygen production, and providing habitats for numerous species. They are also vital for human activities, such as fishing, recreation, and water supply. However, aquatic ecosystems are vulnerable to pollution, climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing, which can threaten their health and biodiversity.
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