Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 20: Problem 9

Describe and compare submerged aquatic vegetation and phytoplankton. Where and how does each get nutrients and light?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Submerged aquatic vegetation and phytoplankton are both important components of aquatic ecosystems, utilizing sunlight for photosynthesis and obtaining nutrients from their respective environments (sediment for SAV and water for phytoplankton). However, their habitats differ in that SAV is found in shallower waters, while phytoplankton can thrive throughout the water column, primarily near the surface.

Step by step solution

01

Describe Submerged Aquatic Vegetation and Phytoplankton

Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) are flowering plants that grow completely underwater. They play crucial roles in aquatic ecosystems by providing habitat and food for aquatic animals and enhance water clarity by reducing wave action. Phytoplankton, on the other hand, are microscopic organisms that live in watery environments, both salty and fresh. They are the base of the marine food chain and are crucial in global nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration.
02

Discuss the Habitat of SAV and Phytoplankton

SAV's can be found in shallower, clear water bodies since they require sunlight for photosynthesis. Phytoplankton live throughout the water column, but are most abundant at light penetration depth, which is typically near the surface of the water.
03

Explain Nutrient Absorption in SAV and Phytoplankton

SAV's absorb nutrients through their root system from the sediment in which they are rooted. Phytoplankton absorb nutrients directly from the water around them, through their cell wall.
04

Describe How SAV and Phytoplankton Get Light

Submerged aquatic vegetation obtains light through the water column. However, since water absorbs light, these plants are typically found in shallower waters where light can penetrate. Phytoplankton, being near the water's surface, have direct access to sunlight, utilizing it for photosynthesis.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

How are water quality standards determined? Distinguish between water quality criteria pollutants and maximum contaminant levels.

How may sewage from individual homes be handled in the absence of municipal collection systems? What are some problems with these on-site systems?

What practices and consequences led to passage of the Clean Water Act of 1972?

Name and describe the facility and the process used to remove debris, grit, particulate organic matter, colloidal and dissolved organic matter, and dissolved nutrients from wastewater.

Why is secondary treatment also called biological treatment? What is the principle involved? What are the two alternative techniques used?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Environmental Science Textbooks

Ecology Research

Read Explanation

Living Environment

Read Explanation

Sustainability

Read Explanation

Energy Resources

Read Explanation

Biological Resources

Read Explanation

Pollution

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free