Phytoplankton: Arguably the Most Important Life on Earth

Phytoplankton are microscopic organisms crucial to life on Earth, forming the base of marine food webs and significantly impacting the atmosphere. They perform photosynthesis, producing oxygen and consuming carbon dioxide. Historically, they have shaped Earth's atmosphere, notably during the Great Oxidation Event. Different types, like diatoms and coccolithophores, contribute to ocean chemistry stability by buffering acidity. Despite their size, phytoplankton play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and deserve protection.

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