University:
Acadia University
Course:
BIOL 2663 | Marine Biology
Academic year:

2024
Views:

130

Pages:

4
Author:

Nabila n.

Epifauna and Infauna: Exploring the Hidden Realms of the Seafloor What are Epifauna and Infauna? Epifauna Organisms that live on the surface of the seafloor, attached to rocks, coral, or other surfaces. Infauna Organisms that live buried within the sediment of the seafloor, ranging from microscopic organisms to large burrowing invertebrates. Epifauna: Life on the Seafloor Surface Barnacles Filter-feeding crustaceans that attach themselves to hard surfaces, often forming dense colonies. Sea Stars Predatory invertebrates with radial symmetry and the ability to regenerate lost limbs. Sea Anemones Sessile polyps that capture prey with their stinging tentacles and are often found in shallow waters. Sponges Simple multicellular animals that filter water through their bodies and play an important role in marine ecosystems. Infauna: Burrowing Beneath the Sediment Worms Diverse group of invertebrates that burrow through the sediment, including polychaetes, nematodes, and flatworms. Clams Bivalve mollusks that filter food particles from the water and have specialized siphons for feeding. Sea Cucumbers Echinoderms that live in the sediment and feed on detritus, playing a role in nutrient cycling. Sea Urchins Echinoderms with spiny shells that graze on algae and play a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. Adaptations and Survival Strategies 1 Camouflage Blending in with the surroundings to avoid predators or ambush prey. 2 Burrowing Digging into the sediment for protection from predators and environmental changes. 3 Filter Feeding Extracting food particles from the water column or sediment. 4 Symbiosis Living in mutually beneficial relationships with other organisms. 5 Specialized Structures Evolving unique body parts, such as gills, siphons, or tentacles, for survival. Ecological Roles and Importance 1 Nutrient Cycling Decomposers, such as worms and sea cucumbers, break down organic matter and release nutrients into the ecosystem. 2 Biodiversity Epifauna and infauna contribute to the rich diversity of life found on the seafloor. 3 Food Webs They serve as prey for larger organisms and predators, supporting the balance of marine food webs. 4 Habitat Creation Infauna such as worms create burrows that provide shelter and habitat for other organisms.