Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the function of an estuary?
What is the function of an estuary?
- To provide protection from storm waves and erosion
- To serve as dumping grounds for domestic and industrial wastes
- To support a specialized fishery habitat (correct)
- To act as a habitat for birds, bees, and monkeys
What is one ecological benefit provided by mangroves?
What is one ecological benefit provided by mangroves?
- Microbial decomposers and herbivores (correct)
- Dumping grounds for industrial wastes
- Sites for ports and harbors
- Protection from storm waves and erosion
Why are sandy beaches important ecosystems?
Why are sandy beaches important ecosystems?
- As sites for recreation (correct)
- To serve as dumping grounds for industrial wastes
- Due to their role as specialized fishery habitats
- For protection from storm waves and erosion
What is a key function of seagrass beds in coastal areas?
What is a key function of seagrass beds in coastal areas?
Which coastal habitat is known to be a nursery ground for various marine species?
Which coastal habitat is known to be a nursery ground for various marine species?
What is a common human benefit derived from seagrass ecosystems?
What is a common human benefit derived from seagrass ecosystems?
In what way do coral reefs contribute to the ecosystem?
In what way do coral reefs contribute to the ecosystem?
Why are estuaries highly valued ecosystems?
Why are estuaries highly valued ecosystems?
What is a major economic benefit provided by coral reefs?
What is a major economic benefit provided by coral reefs?
Why are mangroves important in the coastal ecosystem?
Why are mangroves important in the coastal ecosystem?
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Study Notes
Seagrass Ecosystem
- Seagrasses support a diverse range of marine life, playing a crucial role in ecological functions.
- Notable species in seagrass habitats include 172 fish species, 46 invertebrates, a single species of dugong, and a sea turtle species.
- Seagrass meadows produce over 10 tons of leaves per half hectare annually.
- They contribute to global fisheries, with 12% of the world’s fish catch originating from seagrass areas.
Coral Reef Ecosystem
- Coral reefs, often called the “rainforests of the sea,” are vital ecosystems known for their biodiversity and complexity.
- Philippine coral reefs are home to over 2,000 fish species, 5,000 mollusk species, and 488 coral species.
- Healthy coral reefs can yield up to 20 tons of fish per square kilometer annually, providing essential protein sources for marine life.
- Coral reefs efficiently capture nutrients and sunlight, supporting a wide range of marine organisms.
Mangrove Ecosystem
- One hectare of mangrove forest can produce up to 3.6 tons of litterfall, enhancing nutrient cycling in coastal ecosystems.
- A healthy hectare of mangroves generates approximately 1.08 tons of fish and fishery products every year.
Sandy Beach Systems
- Beaches play a significant role as nesting sites for turtles and habitats for various invertebrates including polychaete worms and bivalve mollusks.
- Sandy beaches provide vital resources:
- Source of food for detritus feeders and prey for birds and fish.
- Accessibility for human consumption of clams.
- Sand extraction for construction purposes.
Economic and Ecological Benefits
- Coastal ecosystems contribute to tourism, recreation, biodiversity, and education.
- Natural resources from marine environments include medicines, tannins, wood for construction and fuel, honey, and alcohol.
- Shore protection is another crucial function of these ecosystems, helping to mitigate coastal erosion.
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