Plankton Review

Front

What are dinoflagellates?

Back

Dinoflagellates are a type of planktonic organism, primarily found in marine environments, known for their two flagella and ability to photosynthesize.

Front

What is the primary nutritional mode of all phytoplankton?

Back

All phytoplankton are autotrophic, meaning they produce their own food through photosynthesis.

Front

What are meroplankton?

Back

Meroplankton are organisms that spend only a part of their life cycle as plankton, typically as larvae, before settling to the seafloor.

Front

What are holoplankton?

Back

Holoplankton are organisms that spend their entire life cycle as plankton, never settling to the seafloor.

Front

What are diatoms?

Back

Diatoms are a major group of phytoplankton characterized by their silica cell walls and are important primary producers in aquatic ecosystems.

Front

What role do phytoplankton play in marine ecosystems?

Back

Phytoplankton are primary producers that form the base of the marine food web, providing energy for a variety of marine organisms.

Front

How do dinoflagellates differ from diatoms?

Back

Dinoflagellates are flagellated and can be mixotrophic, while diatoms are non-motile and strictly autotrophic.

Front

What is the significance of meroplankton in marine life cycles?

Back

Meroplankton play a crucial role in the life cycles of many marine organisms, serving as a transitional stage from larval to adult forms.

Front

What environmental factors influence phytoplankton growth?

Back

Phytoplankton growth is influenced by light availability, nutrient concentrations, and water temperature.

Front

What is the importance of holoplankton in the ocean?

Back

Holoplankton are essential for maintaining the planktonic food web and contribute to nutrient cycling in marine ecosystems.