Benthic (Adjective)
Meaning
Of or relating to or happening on the bottom under a body of water.
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- Benthic organisms are often attached to the seafloor and rely on currents for food and oxygen.
- Marine scientists are studying the impact of climate change on benthic ecosystems worldwide.
- A research team has discovered a unique species of benthic fish in the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean.
- The exploration of the ocean floor revealed an astonishing variety of benthic life, from corals to sea sponges.
- A decline in benthic populations could have significant cascading effects on the entire marine food chain.