Surviving Aquatic Changes

I. Effects of Salinity on Ocean LifeA. Osmoregulation - ability of aquatic organisms to maintain a proper water balance within their bodies (in salt or freshwater).B. Osmoregulation – related to the process of Osmosis.C. Osmosis-the movement of water molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration through a semi- permeable membrane.

II. Effects of Temperature on Ocean Life

A. Temperature affects the functioning of living things. B. When the water temperature is high, fish are more active than when the water temperature is cooler. C. Ectothermic animals change their internal body temperature when the temperature of the external environment changes.

III. Adaptations of Marine Organisms A. Organisms must prevent ice crystals from forming within their cells and body fluids (expanding ice would rupture their internal structures) B. Some have a type of antifreeze in their blood, which lowers the freezing point of their internal fluids C. Others increase the salt content within their tissues to prevent freezing.