Filter feeders

Filter Feeders

Filter feeders (pronunciation: /ˈfɪltər ˈfiːdərz/) are a sub-group of aquatic organisms that feed by straining suspended matter and food particles from water. This method of feeding is utilized by a variety of organisms, including bivalves, sponges, krill, and some species of fish and whales.

Etymology

The term "filter feeder" is derived from the method of feeding these organisms employ. They "filter" the water for food particles, hence the name.

Types of Filter Feeders

There are several types of filter feeders, each utilizing a different method to filter food from the water.

• Passive Filter Feeders: These organisms, such as bivalves and sponges, filter food particles from the water by allowing the water to passively flow over their filtering apparatus.

• Active Filter Feeders: These organisms, such as certain species of fish and whales, actively pump water over their filtering apparatus.

Related Terms

• Suspension feeder: This is a broader category that includes filter feeders. Suspension feeders consume food that is suspended in water.

• Detritivore: These organisms feed on detritus, organic material that falls to the bottom of a body of water. Some filter feeders are also detritivores.

• Plankton: These are the microscopic organisms that many filter feeders consume.

• Baleen whale: This is a type of whale that is a filter feeder. They have baleen plates in their mouths that they use to filter food from the water.

See Also

• Aquatic animal
• Marine biology
• Ecology

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