aquatic
Definition
Aquatic means "living in, on, or near water." It can also refer to things that are associated with water, such as aquatic plants or aquatic ecosystems.
Aquatic animals have special adaptations that help them live in water, such as gills for breathing underwater; webbed feet or fins for swimming; streamlined bodies that help them move through water; scales or other protective coverings to protect them from the water; and aquatic animals can be found in all types of water, including oceans, lakes, rivers, and even puddles. They play an important role in the environment, by helping to keep the water clean and by providing food for other animals.
Here are some examples of aquatic animals:
- Fish: Fish are the most common type of aquatic animal. They come in all shapes and sizes, and they can be found in all types of water.
- Amphibians: Amphibians are animals that can live both on land and in water. They include frogs, toads, and salamanders.
- Mammals: There are a few types of mammals that are aquatic, such as dolphins, whales, and seals.
- Birds: There are also a few types of birds that are aquatic, such as penguins, pelicans, and ducks.
- Plants: There are also many types of plants that are aquatic, such as seaweed, water lilies, and lotus flowers.
How can the word be used?
The aquatic turtle swam gracefully through the water.
Different forms of the word
Adjective: aquatic.
Adverb: aquatically.
Noun: aquatics.
Synonyms: marine, marine-like, water-based, water-related, watery.
Antonyms: terrestrial, land-based, earth-bound.
Etymology
The word "aquatic" comes from the Latin word "aqua" meaning "water" and the suffix "-ic" meaning "pertaining to." The word was first used in English in the 16th century to describe things that are related to water.
Question
Provide some examples to show how aquatic animals have adapted to their environment.
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
What are the different types of aquatic ecosystems?
Answer:
- Aquatic ecosystems are ecosystems that are found in water. They can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
There are two main types of aquatic ecosystems:
- Freshwater ecosystems: Freshwater ecosystems are found in lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands. They are characterised by low salinity.
- Saltwater ecosystems: Saltwater ecosystems are found in oceans, seas, and estuaries. They are characterized by high salinity.