Difference between Desert and Aquatic Ecosystem

Nov 30 -0001

Distinguish, differentiate, compare and explain what is the difference between Desert and Aquatic Ecosystem. Comparison and Differences.

Difference between Desert and Aquatic Ecosystem

Desert generally has a dry and humid climate. Aquatic usually have a cold climate.

In the desert, the temperature can be either very hot or cold, so its difficult to live. An aquatic ecosystem supports more life.

Similarities between Desert and Aquatic Ecosystem

Both the aquatic and desert ecosystem have a variety of animal and plant species.

Desert ecosystem

Desert and semi arid lands are highly specialized and sensitive ecosystems that are easily destroyed by human activities. The species of these dry areas can live only in this specialized habitat.

How are desert and semi-arid ecosystems used?

Areas of scanty vegetation with semi-arid scrubland have been used for camel, cattle and goat grazing. Areas that have a little moisture, such as along the watercourses, have been used for growing crops.

How can desert ecosystems be conserved?

Desert ecosystems are extremely sensitive. Their ecological balance that forms a habitat for their plants and animals is easily disturbed. Desert people have traditionally protected their meagre water resources. There is an urgent need to protect residual patches of this ecosystem within National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in desert and semi arid areas.

What are the threats to desert ecosystems?

Several types of development strategies as well as human population growth have begun to affect the natural ecosystem of the desert and semi arid land. Conversion of these lands through extensive irrigation systems has hanged several of the natural characteristics of this region.

Aquatic ecosystems

The aquatic ecosystems constitute the marine environments of the seas and the fresh water systems in lakes, rivers, ponds and wetlands. These ecosystems provide human beings with a wealth of natural resources. They provide goods that people collect for food such as fish and marine salt water. There is very little fresh water on earth, which is a key resource for people all over the world.

How are aquatic ecosystems used?

Man uses aquatic ecosystems for the clean freshwater on which his life is completely dependent. We need clean water to drink and for other domestic uses. Water is essential for agriculture. Fisherfolk use the aquatic ecosystems to earn a livelihood. People catch fish and crabs. They also collect edible plants. This is used locally as food or for sale in the market.

What are the threats to aquatic ecosystems?

Water pollution occurs from sewage and poorly managed solid waste in urban areas when it enters the aquatic ecosystem of lakes and rivers. Sewage leads to a process called eutrophication, which destroys life in the water as the oxygen content is severely reduced. Fish and crustacea cannot breathe and are killed. A foul odour is produced. Gradually the natural flora and fauna of the aquatic ecosystem is destroyed.