What is the impact of salinity levels on ocean life?

Salinity levels play a crucial role in determining the distribution and abundance of marine species. Different organisms have varying tolerances to salinity, which influences where they can thrive. For instance, some species are adapted to live in brackish waters, while others require specific salinity ranges found in open ocean environments. Changes in salinity due to factors like freshwater runoff, evaporation, or human activities can lead to stress in marine organisms, affecting their growth, reproduction, and overall survival.

By impacting physiological processes such as osmoregulation and respiratory functions, salinity levels directly influence not only which species can inhabit certain areas but also their interactions within the ecosystem. These interactions include predation, competition, and symbiotic relationships, all of which are critical for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Therefore, salinity is a key environmental factor that shapes the distribution and diversity of marine life.