What is plankton and why is it important?

Plankton refers to a diverse group of small, drifting organisms that are typically found in both marine and freshwater environments. They play a pivotal role in marine food webs as they serve as a primary food source for a wide variety of marine life. Phytoplankton, which are microscopic plants, perform photosynthesis and produce oxygen, while zooplankton, the animal component, includes tiny organisms like copepods and krill, which feed on phytoplankton.

The importance of plankton comes from their foundational place in the oceanic food chain. They support larger organisms, including fish and marine mammals, thus sustaining entire ecosystems. Their presence is also key to global biogeochemical cycles, impacting carbon cycling and energy flow within marine environments. This establishes plankton as a critical component not only of marine ecosystems but also in maintaining ecological balance on a global scale.