ZONE OF NET METABOLIC PRODUCTION

(Biology) The region (or depth) of a body of water in which constructive metabolism (Anabolism or Assimilation) is equal to or greater than destructive metabolism (Catabolism or Dissimilation). Metabolism is the sum of the processes concerned in the building up of protoplasm and its destruction incidental to life; the chemical changes in living cells, by which the energy is provided for the vital processes and activities, and new material is assimilated to repair the waste. Metabolism may be considered as including two aspects or processes: constructive metabolism (Anabolism) or destructive metabolism (Catabolism). Anabolism and Catabolism go on together, but one may predominate and obscure the other. Below this level (the Compensation Level), the destructive process tend to exceed the constructive processes. Also referred to as the Photic Zone.