pleuston

Pleuston refers to the collection of small, drifting organisms that inhabit the upper layers of bodies of water, including oceans, lakes, and rivers. This term is often used in the context of marine biology and ecology. Pleuston includes a diverse range of organisms such as phytoplankton, zooplankton, and small invertebrates like copepods and cladocerans. These organisms are crucial for the aquatic food web, serving as a primary food source for larger animals and contributing significantly to the overall productivity of aquatic ecosystems. Pleuston plays a vital role in nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration, making it an essential component of aquatic environments. The study of pleuston is important for understanding the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems and the impact of environmental changes on these systems.