plankton

[ˈplaŋktən]

plankton Definition

• 1. the small and microscopic organisms drifting or floating in the sea or fresh water, consisting chiefly of diatoms, protozoans, small crustaceans, and the eggs and larval stages of larger animals
• 2. a person or organization that cannot move or act effectively and is therefore dependent on others

Using plankton: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plankton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The ocean is full of plankton.

• Example

  Whales feed on plankton.

• Example

  Plankton are at the base of the marine food chain.

• Example

  The lake was so polluted that the plankton died off.

plankton Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for plankton

• phytoplankton
• zooplankton
• microorganisms

Phrases with plankton

• neuston plankton

  plankton that live on the surface of the water

  Example

  The neuston plankton are often seen floating on the surface of the ocean.

• holoplankton

  plankton that spend their entire life cycle as plankton

  Example

  Holoplankton include many species of jellyfish and some types of crustaceans.

• meroplankton

  plankton that spend only part of their life cycle as plankton

  Example

  Meroplankton include the larvae of many fish and invertebrates.

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Summary: plankton in Brief

Plankton [ˈplaŋktən] refers to small and microscopic organisms that drift or float in the sea or fresh water, including diatoms, protozoans, small crustaceans, and the eggs and larval stages of larger animals. Plankton are at the base of the marine food chain and are an essential part of the ecosystem. The term 'plankton' can also refer to a person or organization that is dependent on others and cannot move or act effectively.