Is neritic zone freshwater or saltwater?

Answered by Willian Lymon

Well, let me tell you about my own experience with the neritic zone. I had the opportunity to visit a coastal area where a river meets the ocean, and it was fascinating to observe the unique characteristics of this zone.

One thing that struck me was the mixture of fresh and salt water in this area. The river carried freshwater from inland, and as it reached the coast, it blended with the salty ocean water. This created a brackish environment, with a lower salinity compared to the open ocean.

As a result, I noticed that the neritic zone in this area was home to a variety of species that could survive in both fresh and salt water. It was amazing to see fish, such as salmon and eels, swimming upstream from the ocean into the river for breeding. These species have the ability to adapt to different salinity levels and can tolerate the brackish water in the neritic zone.

Additionally, I observed certain types of crustaceans, like crabs and shrimps, thriving in this zone. These creatures are well-suited to the mix of fresh and salt water, as they have adapted to survive in both environments. It was interesting to watch them scuttle along the shoreline, taking advantage of the abundant resources available in this transitional zone.

I also had the chance to speak with some local fishermen who relied on the neritic zone for their livelihoods. They explained that this zone provided a unique opportunity to catch a diverse range of fish. They mentioned that certain species, like mullet and flounder, were particularly abundant in this area due to the mix of fresh and salt water.

My experience in the neritic zone taught me that it is not strictly freshwater or saltwater, but rather a dynamic blend of both. This zone serves as a vital habitat for species that have adapted to survive in this transitional environment. It was truly a fascinating and unique ecosystem to explore.