What is the benthic environment?
The benthic environment is an aquatic ecosystem located in shallow and deep ocean waters. It is characterized by the presence of organisms living on or near the seabed, such as corals, sponges, and mollusks. Benthic organisms help to recycle nutrients and provide food for a variety of other organisms, from fish to sea turtles. Additionally, the benthic environment plays an important role in climate regulation, helping to reduce global warming. Benthic organisms also form the foundation of the food web, allowing other aquatic species to thrive. Finally, benthic habitats provide a home and shelter for many different species, providing a safe haven for them to reproduce and grow.
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