Microphytoplankton

Microphytoplankton are microscopic, photosynthetic organisms that drift in aquatic environments, primarily the oceans and large lakes. They are a type of phytoplankton, a diverse group of organisms that form the base of many aquatic food webs. The "micro" prefix indicates their size, typically ranging from 20 to 200 micrometers in diameter. This size category distinguishes them from picophytoplankton, which are smaller, and net phytoplankton, which are larger and can be captured by fine nets.

These tiny plants are responsible for a significant portion of global primary production, converting sunlight, carbon dioxide, and nutrients into organic matter through photosynthesis. This process not only fuels their own growth but also supports the entire marine ecosystem, from zooplankton that graze on them to larger marine animals. Microphytoplankton play a crucial role in the Earth's carbon cycle, absorbing vast amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen as a byproduct. Their abundance and distribution are influenced by factors such as light availability, nutrient concentrations, temperature, and water stratification. Major groups of microphytoplankton include diatoms, dinoflagellates, and coccolithophores, each with distinct characteristics and ecological roles. Changes in microphytoplankton populations can signal shifts in ocean health and productivity.