Plankton and Their Ocean Roles

In this video, Nicole Schiffer and Brandon Elliot from the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center guide viewers through an experiment to create a model of plankton. They explain the importance of plankton in the ocean food chain, their adaptations to stay afloat, and the impact of global warming on their survival. The video includes a hands-on activity to build a plankton model using household materials, demonstrating the scientific method through trial and error. The hosts also discuss photosynthesis in phytoplankton and the consequences of rising ocean temperatures on marine life.

What is the primary purpose of the materials listed for the experiment?

• To measure the temperature of water

• To test water quality

• To build a model of a plankton

• To create a habitat for plankton

Which of the following best describes plankton?

• Birds that live near water

• Plants that grow on land

• Tiny organisms found in the ocean

• Large ocean animals

Why do plankton need adaptations to stay afloat?

• They need to avoid predators

• They need to reach the ocean floor

• They are heavier than water

• They are lighter than water

What role do plankton play in the ocean food chain?

• They are decomposers

• They are scavengers

• They are primary producers

• They are top predators

What is the purpose of adding a paper clip to the plankton model?

• To help it float better

• To increase its weight

• To attach it to the aquarium

• To make it more colorful

What process do phytoplankton use to produce food?

• Respiration

• Photosynthesis

• Fermentation

• Digestion

What do zooplankton primarily feed on?

• Other zooplankton

• Seaweed

• Phytoplankton

• Small fish

Why is it important for plankton to stay near the surface of the water?

• To stay warm

• To avoid predators

• To access sunlight for photosynthesis

• To find more food

How does global warming affect the surface temperature of ocean water?

• It increases the temperature

• It stabilizes the temperature

• It decreases the temperature

• It has no effect

What is a potential consequence of plankton dying off due to global warming?

• More frequent ocean storms

• Increase in ocean salinity

• Decrease in ocean biodiversity

• Rise in sea levels