Aquatic biomes are divided into several distinct regions, each with unique characteristics and ecosystems. The main regions of an aquatic biome include:
- Freshwater Regions: These include lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. Freshwater regions are characterized by low salt concentration, usually less than 1%. They are home to a variety of plants and animals adapted to these conditions.
- Marine Regions: These regions encompass oceans, seas, and coral reefs. Marine regions have a high salt concentration, typically around 3.5%. They support a diverse range of life forms, from microscopic plankton to large marine mammals.
- Estuaries: Estuaries are where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean. These regions are highly productive and serve as nurseries for many marine species.
- Wetlands: Wetlands include marshes, swamps, and bogs. They are areas where water covers the soil or is present near the surface for most of the year. Wetlands are crucial for water purification, flood control, and providing habitat for numerous species.
Each of these regions plays a vital role in the overall health of the aquatic biome, supporting a wide range of biodiversity and ecological processes.