In the pelagic zone of oceans, which abiotic factors would reduce or limit productivity to the greatest extent?
A)temperature
B)light penetration
C)nutrients
D)depth
E)seasonal turnover

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the pelagic zone, the most limiting factor for productivity is usually light availability. Light is necessary for photosynthesis, which is the primary source of energy for most organisms in this zone. The surface layer of the ocean receives the most light, but the intensity decreases rapidly with depth. As a result, productivity decreases with depth, and only a small fraction of the total light energy entering the surface layer is available to the species that live in deeper areas. Nutrient availability and temperature may also affect productivity, but their impact is generally less severe than that of light. Depth and seasonal turnover are not abiotic factors that directly limit productivity, but they may indirectly affect it by changing the physical and chemical conditions of the water.

In the Pelagic Zone of Oceans, Which Abiotic Factors Would