Benthic Fauna

Benthic fauna are the diverse group of animals that live on, in, or near the seabed or bottom sediment of oceans, lakes, and rivers. They include creatures like worms, crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms. These organisms play key roles in the ecosystem, such as recycling nutrients, breaking down organic matter, and supporting the food chain. Benthic fauna vary widely depending on the environment, from shallow coastal areas to deep-sea floors. Studying these communities helps scientists understand ecosystem health, environmental changes, and the impact of human activities on aquatic habitats.