Marine Biology: Plankton Dynamics and Migration

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What characterizes the nauplius larva stage in the Chiomass migration?

Segmented body with reproductive structures.

Presence of a distinct dorsal spine.

Focus on feeding and growth with unsegmented bodies. (correct)

Engages in mating and reproduction.

Which factor does not increase diatom growth in turbulent waters?

Competition from dinoflagellates. (correct)

Light availability.

Increased turbulence.

Nutrient transport.

During what conditions are contact rates between zooplankton and prey highest?

Low prey concentrations during high turbulence. (correct)

High turbulence with nutrient-depleted surface water.

Consistent prey availability in nutrient-rich waters.

High prey concentrations in low turbulence.

What occurs in coastal upwellings during high turbulence events?

Phytoplankton bloom among diatoms. Signup and view all the answers

How does the nutrient concentration differ between surface and deeper water?

Nutrient-depleted surface waters have higher nutrients at depth. Signup and view all the answers

What does a Reynolds number (Re) of less than 1 indicate about the motion of plankton in water?

Viscous forces dominate over inertial forces. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about plankton locomotion is true due to their environment?

They must use constant but low-power movements for motion. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Reynolds number influence the feeding mechanisms of plankton?

It leads to adaptations that minimize fluid resistance while feeding. Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of the low Reynolds number on energy expenditure for plankton?

It allows for efficient movement but at slower speeds. Signup and view all the answers

What primarily drives the growth of heterotrophic organisms during the spring in temperate waters?

Increased light and phytoplankton growth Signup and view all the answers

In the life cycle of a marine copepod, which stage follows the nauplius stage?

Copepodite Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most significantly contributes to low primary production during winter in temperate waters?

Deep mixing and absence of stratification Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during the summer months in temperate waters that impacts primary production?

Nutrient depletion limits phytoplankton productivity Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of the spring bloom directly affects secondary production?

It stimulates zooplankton reproduction after a lag time Signup and view all the answers

During which season are both primary and secondary production at their lowest in temperate waters?

Winter, due to low light and limited phytoplankton Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during autumn in relation to phytoplankton compared to spring?

A bloom with reduced light and cooler temperatures Signup and view all the answers

How do tides influence the timing of spring blooms?

Areas with the highest tidal currents do not experience a spring bloom Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the chlorophyll maximum (SCM) in stratified waters?

It is a layer of elevated chlorophyll concentrated below the surface layer Signup and view all the answers

What occurs due to nutrient limitations at the surface for phytoplankton?

Limited growth nearer to the surface Signup and view all the answers

What role do tides play in phytoplankton and diatom interactions?

Tides bring diatoms and nutrients together, supporting growth Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary effect of tidal mixing on the nutrient availability in the photic zone?

It brings nutrient-rich deep water to the surface, promoting diatom growth. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of copepod tends to dominate in areas characterized by shallow tidal mixing?

Small copepods that thrive in nutrient-rich environments. Signup and view all the answers

What role do internal waves play in the distribution of plankton?

They cause vertical oscillations of the thermocline, redistributing plankton. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of persistent tidal mixing, as seen in Georges Bank?

It ensures year-round high productivity without seasonal peaks. Signup and view all the answers

What typically happens to zooplankton populations in thermally stratified waters?

Larger copepods tend to thrive due to stable conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What role do tidal fronts play in marine ecosystems?

They create transitional zones that facilitate nutrient mixing. Signup and view all the answers

How do internal waves affect plankton populations in marine environments?

They enhance the growth of phytoplankton by bringing them into the photic zone. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of tidal island waves in coastal ecosystems?

They promote nutrient upwelling, increasing primary productivity. Signup and view all the answers

In what way do tidal fronts support growth and recruitment in nursery areas?

By creating barriers that retain fresh larvae and nutrients. Signup and view all the answers

What has been observed regarding the nutrient-rich waters in Florida Bay?

They reach reefs to enhance productivity for a limited time. Signup and view all the answers