zooplankton Definition
small animals that float near the surface of water and are carried by the current.
Using zooplankton: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "zooplankton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Zooplankton is an important food source for many marine animals.
Example
The abundance of zooplankton in the water indicates a healthy ecosystem.
Example
Scientists study the diversity of zooplankton species to understand the ocean's biodiversity.
zooplankton Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for zooplankton
- microfauna
- planktonic animals
Phrases with zooplankton
zooplankton that spend their entire life cycle as plankton
Example
Holoplankton include jellyfish, copepods, and krill.
zooplankton that spend only part of their life cycle as plankton
Example
Meroplankton include the larvae of fish, crabs, and starfish.
organisms that live at the air-water interface, including some types of zooplankton
Example
Some neuston species, such as the sea skater, can walk on the surface of the water.
Summary: zooplankton in Brief
'Zooplankton' [ˈzoʊəˌplæŋktən] refers to small animals that float near the surface of water and are carried by the current. They are an important food source for many marine animals and indicate a healthy ecosystem. Zooplankton includes holoplankton, which spend their entire life cycle as plankton, and meroplankton, which spend only part of their life cycle as plankton.
