In the context of ecosystem productivity, marine upwelling zones are important as they increase the marine productivity by bringing the: 1. decomposer microorganisms to the surface. 2. nutrients to the surface. 3. bottom-dwelling organisms to- the surface. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

QUESTION

Hard

Environment & Ecology

Prelims 2011

In the context of ecosystem productivity, marine upwelling zones are important as they increase the 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?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Marine upwelling zones are regions where deep, cold water rises towards the surface. This upwelling water is rich in nutrients that "fertilize" the surface waters, promoting the growth of phytoplankton, which forms the base of the marine food chain. Therefore, statement 2 is correct.

However, upwelling does not necessarily bring decomposer microorganisms or bottom-dwelling organisms to the surface. Decomposer microorganisms are found throughout the water column, not just in deep waters, and bottom-dwelling organisms are typically adapted to life at the seafloor and do not rise to the surface. Therefore, statements 1 and 3 are not correct.

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