The marine ecosystem with the lowest net primary productivity is
A) the coral reef.
B) the open ocean.
C) swamp and marsh areas.
D) the ocean upwelling zone.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The open ocean has the lowest net primary productivity due to limitations in nutrient availability which leads to a low carrying capacity for primary producers. Coral reefs and swamp/marsh areas have high productivity and diversity, while the ocean upwelling zone, although sometimes low in productivity, can also experience high productivity due to nutrients being brought up from deep waters.

The Marine Ecosystem with the Lowest Net Primary Productivity Is