Makroeliöstöä

Makroeliöstö refers to the macroscopic organisms living within an aquatic ecosystem. These are the organisms large enough to be seen with the naked eye, distinguishing them from microorganisms like bacteria and phytoplankton. The term encompasses a wide variety of life forms, including plants, animals, and fungi.

In freshwater environments, makroeliöstö can include aquatic plants such as water lilies and reeds, invertebrates like insects (larvae and adults), crustaceans (e.g., crayfish, amphipods), mollusks (snails, mussels), and annelids (worms). Vertebrates commonly found include fish and amphibians. In marine settings, the makroeliöstö is even more diverse, featuring seaweeds, corals, sponges, various invertebrates like starfish, crabs, and jellyfish, as well as a vast array of fish species, marine mammals, and seabirds.

The presence and diversity of makroeliöstö are important indicators of the health and ecological status of an aquatic environment. Their populations are influenced by factors such as water quality, habitat availability, food sources, and the presence of predators. Studying makroeliöstö helps scientists understand the intricate food webs and ecological processes within these systems. Changes in their composition or abundance can signal pollution, habitat degradation, or other environmental stressors, making them valuable bioindicators for environmental monitoring and management.