Marine Microorganisms

Front

What are marine microorganisms?

Back

Marine microorganisms are tiny living organisms found in ocean environments, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and phytoplankton, that play crucial roles in marine ecosystems.

Front

What is the difference between phytoplankton and zooplankton?

Back

Phytoplankton are microscopic plants that perform photosynthesis, while zooplankton are small animals that feed on phytoplankton and other organic matter.

Front

What role do diatoms play in marine ecosystems?

Back

Diatoms are a type of phytoplankton that are primary producers, forming the base of the marine food web by converting sunlight into energy through photosynthesis.

Front

What are dinoflagellates?

Back

Dinoflagellates are a group of single-celled organisms that can be both autotrophic (photosynthetic) and heterotrophic, and are known for causing harmful algal blooms.

Front

What is the significance of zooplankton in the ocean?

Back

Zooplankton serve as a crucial food source for larger marine animals, including fish and whales, and play a key role in the ocean's food web.

Front

Define the term 'benthos'.

Back

Benthos refers to organisms that live on or in the ocean floor, including various types of invertebrates and algae.

Front

What is the Kingdom Protista?

Back

The Kingdom Protista includes a diverse group of eukaryotic microorganisms, such as algae and protozoa, that are primarily aquatic.

Front

Explain the concept of primary producers in marine ecosystems.

Back

Primary producers, like phytoplankton, are organisms that produce organic compounds from carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, forming the foundation of the food web.

Front

What are the eight levels of biological classification?

Back

The eight levels of biological classification, from broadest to most specific, are Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.

Front

What is the role of algae in ocean food chains?

Back

Algae, particularly phytoplankton, serve as the primary food source for many marine organisms, supporting the entire food chain.