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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.

benthic

/ˈbɛnθɪk/ /ˈbɛnθɪk/

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.

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