Question

Where would you expect to find the most photosynthesis in an ocean biome?

a. aphotic zone

b. abyssal zone

c. benthic realm

d. intertidal zone

Short answer

The Correct Answer is Option (d)

Intertidal zone

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

The ocean's physical diversity has a profound impact on the diversity of species that live there. Based on how far light penetrates the water, the ocean is divided into two distinct zones.

• The photic zone receives sunlight that enters the zone, allowing photosynthesis to take place. The photic zone has a higher diversity of species because it is more conducive to life.
• The aphotic zone is a part of the ocean that receives no sunshine. This zone is not exposed to the sun.

Reasons for the Incorrect Options

The aphotic zones of the oceanic biome, where photosynthetic species do not thrive, are depicted below. The aphotic zone includes these two:

• Underneath the pelagic zone is the benthic realm, which is the deepwater region beyond the continental shelf. The bottom layer of the benthic world is made up of sand, silt, and dead creatures.
• The abyssal zone, which extends to depths of 4000 meters or more, is the deepest section of the ocean. The abyssal zone is home to a wide range of invertebrates and fish, but there are no photosynthetic organisms.

Reason for the correct answer

The photic zones in the oceanic biome where photosynthetic organisms thrive are as follows:

• The nearest marine region to land is the intertidal zone. Although it is commonly thought of as a sandy beach, the intertidal zone can also be stony, muddy, or thickly wooded with tangled roots in mangrove forests.
• The neritic zone extends from the intertidal zone's margin to around 200 meters (650 feet) below the continental shelf's edge. When the water is clean, photosynthesis can occur in the neritic zone.
• The oceanic zone, which is beyond the neritic zone, is an open ocean area. Fish and whale populations are supported by abundant phytoplankton and zooplankton. Nutrients are scarce, and this is a less productive part of the marine biome.
• Hence, the correct answer is an option (d).