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How does macrobenthic diversity differ between the Arctic and Antarctic regions?

User Last
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Final answer:

The Arctic and Antarctic regions display differences in macrobenthic diversity. The Arctic has lower macrobenthic diversity due to sea ice cover and harsh conditions, while the Antarctic has higher diversity thanks to nutrient-rich waters and krill presence.

Step-by-step explanation:

Macrobenthic diversity refers to the variety of larger organisms (such as fungi, sponges, marine worms, fishes, etc.) that inhabit the benthic realm of the ocean floor. In terms of macrobenthic diversity, the Arctic and Antarctic regions tend to have different characteristics.

In the Arctic region, macrobenthic diversity is influenced by factors such as sea ice cover, limited sunlight penetration, and harsh environmental conditions. These factors contribute to lower macrobenthic diversity compared to the Antarctic region.

On the other hand, the Antarctic region, despite being characterized by extremely cold temperatures and harsh conditions, has relatively higher macrobenthic diversity. This is due to factors such as nutrient-rich waters, strong ocean currents, and presence of krill, which provide a food source for a diverse range of benthic organisms.

User Comatose Turtle
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