In this lecture we will discuss the benthos, plants and animals on the sea floor. Objectives for today Learn some of the kinds of benthos and benthic habitats Learn about the factors structuring benthic communities Plants Benthic plants are not found below about 100 meters depth because of lack of light.
Nutrient uptake is different than for phytoplankton.
Algae are divided into groups based on the pigments they contain, which function in photosynthesis but also color the algae. The major non-algal plants that are usually entirely under water are seagrasses. These form extensive meadows in shallow, clear, sandy areas. They can be important habitat for some kinds of fish, and also function to stabilize sediments. Marsh grasses are found in tidal salt marshes in estuaries and other shallow regions.