Patterns of primary productivity in marine environments are not delineated in the same way as in terrestrial environments. Why are there regions of high primary productivity at 60° N and 60° S in the oceans, when these are not regions of high productivity on land?
A)The ocean at those latitudes is warmer, so more primary producers live there.
B)There is little ocean movement at these latitudes, so primary producers can concentrate there.
C)There is higher nutrient availability at these latitudes, supporting more primary producers.
D)More sunlight is absorbed at these latitudes by the water than by the land.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The regions at 60° N and 60° S in the oceans are known as the polar fronts, where there is a convergence of ocean currents, and nutrients are brought to the surface. This results in higher nutrient availability, which supports more primary producers. This is not necessarily the case on land, where other factors such as temperature and rainfall may be more important in determining patterns of primary productivity.

Patterns of Primary Productivity in Marine Environments Are Not Delineated