The Mighty Phytoplankton Quiz

What is the primary function of phytoplankton in the ocean?

• Regulating ocean temperature

• Producing oxygen

• Filtering seawater

• Creating habitats for marine life

What is the main process by which phytoplankton produce food?

• Chemical synthesis

• Respiration

• Digestion

• Photosynthesis

Which of the following is NOT a type of phytoplankton ?

• Armored diatoms

• Jellyfish

• Whip-tailed dinoflagellates

• Cyanobacteria

What is the role of coccolithophores in the ocean ecosystem?

• Producing oxygen

• Attracting marine mammals

• Regulating ocean acidity

• Creating coral reefs

What event in Earth's history is credited to the evolution of cyanobacteria?

• The Dinosaur Extinction

• The Cambrian Explosion

• The Ice Age

• The Great Oxidation Event

What is the function of the calcium carbonate shells produced by coccolithophores?

• Creating underwater caves

• Providing food for other organisms

• Regulating ocean pH

• Attracting tourists

What is the estimated percentage of carbon dioxide consumed by phytoplankton compared to all plants on land?

• 100%

• 75%

• 50%

• 25%

What is the significance of phytoplankton in the evolution of complex life on Earth?

• They caused mass extinctions

• They helped jump-start the evolution of complex life

• They produced the first animals

• They created the first land plants

What is the main function of the calcium carbonate ooze created by phytoplankton on the seafloor?

• Acting as a natural buffer for ocean acidity

• Providing a home for marine organisms

• Attracting deep-sea divers

• Creating underwater mountains

What is the mission of the Monterey Bay Aquarium mentioned in the text?

• Developing underwater technology

• Building artificial reefs

• Inspiring conservation of the ocean

• Promoting fishing activities