Aquatics

This key topic focuses on the features that make up hydrologic functions, global and local water distribution, as well as classification and identification processes.

• LO 1.1: Compose a detailed water cycle diagram.
• LO 1.2: Identify the global distribution of water (saltwater, freshwater, ice, et cetera).
• LO 1.3: Explain how aquifers relate to local and global water supplies.
• LO 1.4: Identify different types of water bodies based on how they are formed and where they are found.
• LO 1.5: Delineate a watershed using a topographic map.
• LO 1.6: Determine the order of a stream and describe what the order indicates.
• LO 1.7: Differentiate between types of wetlands by their characteristics and common species found in each.

This key topic focuses on how aquatic ecosystems rely on complex interactions between organisms, energy flow, and water quality, with factors like species diversity, cyanobacteria, and human threats shaping their balance and sustainability.

• LO 2.1: Identify fish and macroinvertebrate species according to their taxonomic class.
• LO 2.2: Recognize the uses of various anatomical structures found in aquatic organisms.
• LO 2.3: Describe the life cycles and behaviors of aquatic organisms.
• LO 2.4: Describe the role of cyanobacteria in aquatic ecosystems and their role in algal blooms
• LO 2.5: Describe the flow of energy within an aquatic food web.
• LO 2.6: Calculate a biotic index and determine water quality for freshwater systems
• LO 2.7: Identify potential threats to aquatic ecosystems, such as pollution, biomagnification of toxins, erosion, development, invasive species, excess nutrients, thermal shock, et cetera.

This key topic explores the critical role of aquatic ecosystems in global biogeochemical cycles, the impacts of hypoxia and anoxia, and how water quality data informs ecosystem health and management practices.

• LO 3.1: Explain the role of aquatic ecosystems in biogeochemical cycles, such as the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles.
• LO 3.2: Identify causes of hypoxia and anoxia in aquatic systems, how these conditions impact the functioning of the ecosystem, and best management practices for prevention and treatment."
• LO 3.3: Interpret results of water quality monitoring measures (such as dissolved oxygen, turbidity, E. coli counts, pH, nutrient levels, et cetera).

This key topic examines the biotic and abiotic factors affecting water quality, the historical and current human impacts on New Mexico's aquatic ecosystems, and the role of legislation, stakeholders, and best practices in protecting and managing water resources.

• LO 4.1: Identify biotic and abiotic factors that impact water quality
• LO 4.2: Explain how human activities upstream can impact downstream water quality
• LO 4.3: Outline the various impacts humans have had on New Mexico's aquatic ecosystems historically.
• LO 4.4: Interpret the results of peer-reviewed scientific papers on aquatic ecology.
• LO 4.5: Identify how State and Federal legislation protects water resources.
• LO 4.6: Identify key stakeholders, agencies, and organizations that oversee water resource protection and management in New Mexico.
• LO 4.7: Recommend best management practices for improving water quality and enhancing aquatic habitat, such as riparian buffers.