Aquatic biome is further subdivided into freshwater biome and marine biome. Freshwater habitats are divided into two major categories, lotic (lotus = washed, or running water), and lentic (lenis = calm, or standing water) habitats. Habitat shift is no rare event in aquatic life, and therefore more studies along these lines are likely to shed more light on the formation of biodiversity. Most ocean life can be found in coastal habitats on the continental shelf, even if this area occupies only 7% of the total ocean area. The term habitat should not be confused with niche, which means actual role of an organism where it is best fitted. Freshwater fish habitats include: habitat zones (rivers, lakes, wetlands, creeks, swamps etc.) Most of the open ocean habitats are found in the deep ocean beyond the edge of the continental shelf. Importance of conserving freshwater habitats Conserving the freshwater habitats ensures their vital hydrological and ecological functions are safeguarded for the economic and social benefits of the population. Microhabitats. The animal species that live in these habitats … a. both support a large number of plants and animals adapted for aquatic living b. ocean and freshwater system conditions generally remain constant throughout the year c. There are three basic types of freshwater ecosystems: Lentic: slow moving water, including pools, ponds, and lakes. A habitat is a place where an organism makes its home. A habitat shift from saline to freshwater, coupled with increased landmass and thus increased available bodies of freshwater, led to a rapid radiation of freshwater Gammarus species. There are a wide variety of freshwater habitats. These constitute the microhabitats. Within its habitat, an organism is able to meet its needs for life, including food, shelter, and reproduction. They generate nearly 3% of its net primary production. Ocean habitats can be divided into two: coastal and open ocean habitats. Freshwater ecosystems contain 41% of the world's known fish species. A biome can be made up of a wide range of habitats. The habitats that freshwater ecosystems provide consist of lakes, rivers, ponds, wetlands, streams, and springs. Which is not a major similarity or difference between freshwater and marine ecosystems? Freshwater Fish of Hong Kong Introduction Composition of Freshwater Fish in Hong Kong Major Freshwater Fish Habitats Key Species of Conservation Concern Conservation Measures Tips and Codes of Observing Freshwater Fish References Introduction Hong Kong is a small territory on the edge of the northern tropical zone. For an animal, that means everything it needs to find and gather food, select a mate, and successfully reproduce. The cycle of evaporation of ocean water, rain and snow provide these habitats a constant source of fresh water. If priority is not given to conserve these habitats, there will be adverse consequences to our health, prosperity and well-being. There are 5 major types of biomes in the world; aquatic biome, forest biome, desert biome, tundra biome and grassland biome. Use these classroom resources to help students explore and learn about these places. Freshwater ecosystems cover 0.78% of the Earth's surface and inhabit 0.009% of its total water. Biologically, the habitat is the organism’s address and the niche is its profession. Freshwater is a precious resource on the Earth's surface. in the upper, middle and lower sections of a waterway microhabitats within each of these zones including banks, snags, rocks, channels, substrates, riffles, macrophytes (aquatic plants) and riparian vegetation. It is also home to many diverse fish, plant, and crustacean species. Biomes should not be confused with habitats. Habitats: A habitat is the environmental area in which a specific living organism lives. ADVERTISEMENTS: Freshwater community consists of an array of organisms depending on the physico-chemical and biological characteristics of the freshwater environment. A habitat meets all the environmental conditions an organism needs to survive. Freshwater habitats include lakes, rivers, marshes, wetlands and swamps. A habitat is usually a large area within which there may be many smaller units.