Environment & Ecology2011
In the context of ecosystem productivity, marine upwelling zones are important as they increase marine productivity by bringing the:
- Decomposer microorganisms to the surface.
- Nutrients to the surface.
- Bottom-dwelling organisms to the surface.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
The correct option is 2 only. Marine upwelling zones are regions where deep, nutrient-rich waters rise to the surface, significantly enhancing marine productivity. This process not only replenishes surface waters with essential nutrients, such as nitrates and phosphates, but also supports phytoplankton growth, which serves as the foundational food source in marine ecosystems. Thus, the increase in nutrient availability directly boosts the overall productivity of these marine environments.
