Planktoniga

Planktoniga refers to the collective group of organisms that drift in bodies of water, primarily oceans, seas, and large lakes. The term "plankton" is derived from the Greek word "planktos," meaning "wanderer" or "drifter." These organisms are unable to swim against currents and are therefore carried wherever the water moves them.

Plankton is broadly divided into two main categories: phytoplankton and zooplankton. Phytoplankton are microscopic, plant-like organisms that produce energy through photosynthesis. They form the base of most aquatic food webs, similar to how plants do on land. Zooplankton, on the other hand, are microscopic animals. They can range from single-celled protozoa to small crustaceans and larval stages of larger animals.

The distribution and abundance of plankton are influenced by various environmental factors, including sunlight, nutrient availability, temperature, and water salinity. Phytoplankton require sunlight and nutrients like nitrates and phosphates for growth. Zooplankton feed on phytoplankton or other zooplankton.

Plankton plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems. Phytoplankton are responsible for producing a significant portion of the Earth's oxygen through photosynthesis and absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, acting as a vital carbon sink. Zooplankton are a primary food source for a vast array of marine life, from small fish to large whales. Their life cycles and movements are intrinsically linked to the health and productivity of aquatic environments. Changes in plankton populations can therefore have far-reaching consequences for the entire ecosystem.