Phytoplankton

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Phytoplankton

Phytoplankton (/ˌfaɪtoʊˈplæŋktən/) are the autotrophic (self-feeding) components of the plankton community and a key part of oceans, seas and freshwater basin ecosystems. The name comes from the Greek words φυτόν (phyton), meaning 'plant', and πλαγκτός (planktos), meaning 'wanderer' or 'drifter'.

Etymology

The term "phytoplankton" is derived from the Greek words "phyto" meaning plant and "plankton" which means drifter or wanderer. This term accurately describes these organisms as they are plant-like and drift along with water currents.

Function and Importance

Phytoplankton are responsible for much of the oxygen in the Earth's atmosphere - half of the total amount produced by all plant life. They also form the base of the aquatic food web, and their population levels can significantly impact the populations of other organisms in the ecosystem.

Types of Phytoplankton

There are many types of phytoplankton, but the most common are cyanobacteria, green algae, and diatoms. Each of these types has a unique structure and role in the ecosystem.

Cyanobacteria

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are the most ancient type of phytoplankton and are responsible for the development of the Earth's oxygen atmosphere.

Green Algae

Green algae are a diverse group of phytoplankton that can live in both freshwater and marine environments. They are a crucial part of the food web, providing food for a variety of organisms.

Diatoms

Diatoms are a type of algae that have a unique, glass-like wall made of silica. They are one of the most common types of phytoplankton and are a primary food source for many marine and freshwater organisms.

Related Terms

  • Zooplankton: Zooplankton are heterotrophic plankton. Zooplankton are found within large bodies of water, including oceans and freshwater systems.
  • Algae: Algae is an informal term for a large and diverse group of photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms. It is a polyphyletic grouping that includes species from multiple distinct clades.
  • Photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is a process used by plants and other organisms to convert light energy into chemical energy that can later be released to fuel the organisms' activities.

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