phytoplankton Definition
microscopic marine plants that form the base of most oceanic food chains.
Using phytoplankton: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "phytoplankton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Phytoplankton are responsible for producing half of the oxygen we breathe.
Example
Whales feed on krill, which in turn feed on phytoplankton.
Example
The abundance of phytoplankton in the water is a good indicator of the health of the ecosystem.
phytoplankton Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for phytoplankton
- algae
- diatoms
- dinoflagellates
Phrases with phytoplankton
marine phytoplankton
phytoplankton that live in saltwater environments
Example
Marine phytoplankton are essential to the oceanic food web.
phytoplankton that live in freshwater environments
Example
Freshwater phytoplankton are often used as indicators of water quality.
phytoplankton that produce toxins harmful to other organisms
Example
Red tide is caused by toxic phytoplankton blooms.
Summary: phytoplankton in Brief
Phytoplankton [fahy-toh-plangk-tuhn] are microscopic marine plants that form the base of most oceanic food chains. They are responsible for producing half of the oxygen we breathe and are an essential component of the oceanic food web. Phytoplankton can be divided into categories such as marine and freshwater phytoplankton, and toxic phytoplankton.
