Front

What are phytoplankton?

Back

Phytoplankton are microscopic plants that form the base of the oceanic food web and produce almost half of all atmospheric oxygen.

Front

What role do whales play in climate change?

Back

Whales can change the climate by mixing the water column while feeding, defecating nutrients at the surface, and increasing phytoplankton numbers, which helps reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Front

What limits phytoplankton growth in polar regions?

Back

Phytoplankton can be light-limited at high latitudes due to short days and weak sunlight during winter.

Front

What is the rete mirabile?

Back

The rete mirabile is a network of blood vessels in predatory pelagic fish that conserves heat in their blood, allowing them to be fast in cold water.

Front

What is a copepod?

Back

A copepod is a type of zooplankton.

Front

What is zooplankton?

Back

Zooplankton are small, often microscopic animals that drift in water and are a crucial part of the aquatic food web.

Front

How do phytoplankton contribute to the oxygen supply?

Back

Phytoplankton perform photosynthesis, producing oxygen as a byproduct, which contributes significantly to the Earth's oxygen supply.

Front

What is the significance of the oceanic food web?

Back

The oceanic food web is a complex network of interactions between organisms, where energy and nutrients are transferred from one level to another, starting with primary producers like phytoplankton.

Front

What factors affect phytoplankton growth?

Back

Phytoplankton growth is affected by light availability, nutrient levels, temperature, and water conditions.

Front

What is the primary function of zooplankton in the ocean?

Back

Zooplankton serve as a primary food source for many marine animals, including fish and whales.