Question

practice quiz: biomes and aquatic ecosystems (lms graded)
the coastal ocean is home to kelp forests and coral reefs. which factor explains why the coastal ocean tends to be more productive than waters of similar depths in the open ocean?
a. warm water temperature
b. brightness of the water
c. low salinity of the water
d. nutrients supplied by runoff from the land

Explanation:

Coastal oceans receive nutrients from land - runoff. These nutrients fuel the growth of primary producers like phytoplankton, increasing productivity. Warm water temperature, water brightness, and low salinity are not the main reasons for higher productivity compared to open - ocean waters of similar depth.

Answer:

D. nutrients supplied by runoff from the land