Final answer:
Ocean upwelling is the process that brings deep, cold, nutrient-rich waters to the ocean's surface, primarily driven by prevailing winds near coastlines, which has a profound effect on marine ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process by which deep, cold, nutrient-rich ocean waters are brought to the surface is known as ocean upwelling. This phenomenon occurs when prevailing winds blow along surface waters near a coastline, pushing water offshore.
As a result, the deeper waters, which are typically colder and nutrient-rich due to the decomposition of organic matter, rise to replace the surface water. This process not only recycles nutrients but also has a significant impact on the biodiversity and productivity of ocean ecosystems by providing an influx of nutrients that fuel the growth of phytoplankton, forming the base of the marine food web.