Why Is Dissolved Oxygen Important In Aquatic Ecosystems?
written by Sidra BatoolIn aquatic ecosystem, dissolved oxygen is important because cellular respiration, the process required for the survival of organic life, relies on it. Without oxygen, only microscopic organisms can use anaerobic respiration. When dissolved oxygen levels become too low, fish and other aquatic organisms cannot survive.
Importance of Dissolved Oxygen In Aquatic Ecosystems
The Dissolved oxygen in aquatic ecosystems plays an important role in the survival of plants and animals. Dissolved oxygen refers to the amount of oxygen present in water, sourced from aquatic plants that produce oxygen during photosynthesis, and the atmosphere.
Aquatic animals need dissolved oxygen for their survival because they depends on it to breathe. Unlike terrestrial animals, most aquatic species do not come up to the surface for air. Instead, they extract the necessary oxygen from the water that contains dissolved oxygen. If the level of dissolved oxygen becomes too low, fish and other aquatic organisms cannot survive
However, excessive decomposition of organic materials can deplete dissolved oxygen, that can cause low oxygen levels. It then leads to habitat displacement or death for organisms.
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