Particle (ecology)

Particle in marine and freshwater ecology is the term for small objects. Particles can remain in suspension in the ocean or freshwater, however they eventually settle (rate determined by Stokes' law) and accumulate as sediment. Some can enter the atmosphere through wave action where they can act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). Many organisms filter particles out of the water with unique filtration mechanisms (filter feeders). Particles are often associated with high loads of toxins which attach to the surface. As these toxins are passed up the food chain they accumulate in fatty tissue and become increasingly concentrated in predators (see bioaccumulation. Very little is known about the dynamics of particles, especially when they are re-suspended by dredging. They can remain floating in the water and drift over long distances. The decomposition of some particles by bacteria consumes a lot of oxygen, and can cause oxygen depletion.

Related Topics:
Ecology - Object - Stokes' law - Atmosphere - Cloud condensation nuclei - Filter - Filter feeder - Toxin - Bioaccumulation - Dredging - Oxygen - Oxygen depletion

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