The upper layer of the ocean, called the surface waters, is home to the most biologically diverse and vibrant ocean. This is mainly attributed to the area's abundant sunlight, adequate nutrient supply, and habitat suitable for a diverse range of species. This article explores why the upper layers of the ocean are so dynamic and how the important organisms in this environment affect our ecosystems and marine resources.
The surface waters of the oceans are one of the world's most important ecosystems, supporting a diverse range of life and influencing climate and global food chains.
The ocean's surface ecosystem is extremely important, primarily because it is the depth range to which light can penetrate, usually to within 200 meters. This layer not only supports photosynthetic single-celled algae, but also provides support for a large number of fish and marine life. The main organisms here include phytoplankton, zooplankton and different types of fish.
In this vibrant body of water, fish distribution can be divided into several main types, including near-shore fish and open ocean fish. Nearshore fish, such as herring and sardines, often congregate in the shallow waters of the bay. Open ocean fish, such as bluefin tuna and deep-sea sharks, are more commonly found in deep waters far from shore. These two types of fish play very different roles in the ecosystem, but are equally important.
Some surface fish, called surface fish, gather quickly around floating objects, such as floating seaweed or jellyfish, which themselves provide habitat and food sources for some young fish.
Surface fish, with their strong body structure and streamlined shape, are able to migrate long distances in the open ocean, catching food as they swim.
With advanced fishing techniques, such as the use of fish aggregating devices (FADs), they are able to effectively catch large numbers of fish. These fish aggregating devices are commonly used in tropical waters and demonstrate the high dependence of fish on floating objects.
In addition to nearshore and open ocean fish, the ocean's surface layer includes specialized species, such as ice salmon and flying fish, that have demonstrated unique adaptations to survive and reproduce.
These adaptabilities allow them to survive in this changing marine environment, affecting the survival and prosperity of other species.
In deeper areas, such as the mid- and deep oceans, the situation is significantly different. The fish in these places are mostly large hunter fish or gradually evolving creatures, with survival strategies different from those of surface fish.
The ocean's surface is also a sensitive area to the effects of climate change. As global temperatures rise and oceans acidify, these impacts exacerbate phytoplankton growth patterns and the ability of fisheries to recover, further affecting food chains and the environment around the world. Of course, the impacts of climate change are not limited to the structure of ecosystems, but also involve social and economic considerations.
With the reduction of fishery resources and changes in ecosystems, how human activities affect the sustainable use of marine resources has become a major issue today.
In summary, the surface of the ocean is not only vibrant due to its abundant light and diverse organisms, but also a core part of the ecosystem due to the unique survival strategies and adaptability of these fish to the environment. Future Me How can we better understand and protect this vast ocean to maintain its vitality and sustainability?