Benthic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Benthic refers to the ecological region at the lowest level of a body of water, including the sediment and organisms living on or near the bottom. It is commonly used in marine and freshwater biology.
Definition:
Relating to the bottom of a sea or lake and the organisms living there.
Synonyms:
bottom-dwelling, deep-sea, abyssal, benthal
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
pelagic, surface-dwelling
Common Collocations:
benthic zone, benthic organisms, benthic environment, benthic invertebrates
Derivatives:
benthos, benthonic
Usage Tips:
Use "benthic" to describe marine life or habitats associated with the ocean floor.
Common Phrases:
benthic community, benthic ecosystem, benthic layer
Etymology:
From Greek "benthos," meaning "depth of the sea."
Examples:
- 1. The benthic zone is home to many unique species.
- 2. Scientists study benthic organisms to understand ocean ecosystems.
- 3. The diver explored the benthic environment near the reef.
- 4. Benthic invertebrates thrive in dark, high-pressure conditions.