Author Question: What are some of the adaptations exhibited by organisms living in estuaries? How do pelagic species ... (Read 106 times)

clippers! · **on:** Aug 22, 2018

What are some of the adaptations exhibited by organisms living in estuaries? How do pelagic species use estuaries to their advantage?

Question 2

What is a beach? Define the term and describe features and processes that may bound the limits of a beach.

iman · **Reply #1 on:** Aug 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Organisms that reside in the estuary must be able to adapt to their rich yet variable environment.
Some estuarine plants are able to reduce the amount of erosion near them by changing the flow of currents. They are able to trap silt particles and sediment at the base of their roots. This makes their position more stable.
The plants of the estuary have variations in the root systems. Small plants are prone to having tiny projections that anchor them to the substrate while larger plants exhibit elaborate root systems.
Most residents of the estuary burrow into the muddy substrate. This behavior gives them access to a high level of nutrients while providing shelter.
Pelagic species use the estuary as marine nurseries. Many fish lay their eggs in the estuary because they gain protection from the oceanic predators. Also, the larvae are able to take advantage of the high nutrients during vital growth stages of their life.

Answer to Question 2

A beach is a zone of loose particles that covers part or all of a shore; a beach is also a type of depositional coast. There are landward and seaward limits to beaches. Vegetation, a sea cliff, sand dunes, or construction such as a seawall may characterize the landward limits of a beach. The seaward limit occurs where sediment movement onshore and offshore ceases. Beaches are built by wave action, particle size, and beach permeability.