Benthos (Gr. Benthos - Seabed)

Benthos (from the Greek "benthos" - seabed) is an ecosystem of bottom fauna of seas and fresh water bodies. This part of the sea is home to many species of living organisms, including bacteria, algae, molluscs, crustaceans, fish and other sea creatures. Benthos are an important component of the marine ecosystem and play an important role in the global carbon cycle.

The bottom fauna of seas and fresh water bodies has a unique adaptation to life in conditions of constant pressure, low temperature and nutrition. Many species in the benthos have luminous organs to attract prey or to communicate with others of their species. The benthos is also home to many endangered species such as various species of crabs, whales and many others.

One of the main functions of benthos is to act as a filter for seawater. It absorbs and retains large amounts of organic and inorganic substances, which helps improve water quality and maintain biodiversity. Benthos also plays an important role in the global carbon cycle, since most species living in benthos are calcifiers, i.e. form their skeletons and shells from calcium.

However, benthos have also become victims of anthropogenic impact. Seawater pollution, climate change, and seabed destruction due to fishing and deep-sea oil and gas exploration are causing declines in the populations of many benthic species. This in turn can lead to serious consequences for the entire marine ecosystem.

In general, benthos is an important element of the marine ecosystem, which plays an important role in preserving biodiversity and maintaining seawater quality. However, to preserve this ecosystem, measures must be taken to protect and preserve the marine environment.