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Phytoplankton

Diatoms (a common type of phytoplankton) under the microscope.

Phytoplankton are important primary producers in the marine food web. They are microscopic, single-celled organisms that float freely in the ocean. They rely on energy from the sun for photosynthesis and are therefore most commonly found less than 100 metres below the surface. Phytoplankton are eaten by zooplankton.

These are diatoms, under the microscope. Diatoms are one of the most common types of phytoplankton.

Glossary

Rights: Public domain
Published: 17 September 2009Size: 1.25 MB
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