Plankton Ecosystem Concepts

The video provides a review of marine plankton observed near San Francisco Bay for the week of March 29, 2021. It highlights an increase in zooplankton, including various larval forms and a notable sea cucumber. The presence of parasitic isopods on copepods is discussed, along with changes in phytoplankton, particularly diatoms. The video explains how ocean weather, specifically upwelling driven by north-northwest winds, influences plankton dynamics. The review concludes with a call to support local marine sanctuaries.

What type of plankton are zooplankton?

• Plant-like plankton

• Animal-like plankton

• Fungi-like plankton

• Bacteria-like plankton

What is the primary food source for many zooplankton?

• Other zooplankton

• Marine debris

• Phytoplankton

• Small fish

Which organism is highlighted as the guest star in the zooplankton section?

• Crab zoea

• Shrimp zoea

• Sea cucumber

• Polychaete worm

What characteristic feature does a young crab zoea have?

• Long tentacles

• Large spikes on its shell

• Bright colors

• Transparent body

What is the role of the microniscus larva in the zooplankton ecosystem?

• Scavenger

• Parasite

• Predator

• Producer

What is a major component of phytoplankton?

• Fungi

• Bacteria

• Diatoms

• Zooplankton

Which type of plankton has been consistently present in recent samples?

• Catastrous

• Odontella

• Skeletonema

• Noctaluca

What is the main component of diatom cell walls?

• Calcium

• Silica

• Carbon

• Phosphorus

What process brings nutrients to surface waters, enhancing plankton productivity?

• Upwelling

• Photosynthesis

• Sedimentation

• Evaporation

What is the significance of north and northwest winds in the context of plankton?

• They have no effect on plankton

• They decrease plankton populations

• They cause plankton to migrate

• They lead to upwelling