North Carolina Envirothon Forestry Practice Test

In aquatic ecosystems, the term for plant plankton is phytoplankton. Phytoplankton are microscopic organisms that perform photosynthesis, much like plants on land. They are vital to aquatic food webs, serving as the primary producers that convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into energy, forming the foundation for the entire aquatic ecosystem. These organisms contribute significantly to the oxygen production in the Earth's atmosphere, and their presence is an indicator of water quality and health in aquatic environments.

The presence of phytoplankton influences the entire ecosystem, as they are consumed by various types of zooplankton, which are animal plankton, and they play a critical role in the carbon cycle. Their abundance can affect the dynamics of nutrient cycling in water bodies and can be impacted by factors such as nutrient availability, temperature, and light conditions. Understanding the role of phytoplankton helps in grasping the overall functioning of aquatic environments.

Ask an Examzify Tutor