The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Respiration is a fundamental physiological process for aerobic organisms in aquatic ecosystems. It involves the intake of oxygen to generate energy and the release of metabolic byproducts.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Aquatic animals, like terrestrial animals, require oxygen to perform cellular respiration. This process is essential for converting nutrients into energy required for survival.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Most aquatic animals (such as fish, crustaceans, and mollusks) possess specialized respiratory organs, such as gills, which allow them to extract and utilize oxygen dissolved in water. While some aquatic animals (like marine mammals) breathe atmospheric air, the generalization that aquatic animals cannot utilize dissolved oxygen is factually wrong.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Carbon dioxide (CO2) is produced as a metabolic waste product during aerobic respiration. Aquatic animals release this carbon dioxide into the surrounding water.
Key Takeaway:
The majority of aquatic animals rely on Dissolved Oxygen (DO) for respiration and contribute to the carbon cycle by releasing carbon dioxide into the water body.