* Phytoplankton are the algae, which are microscopic plants that use photosynthesis to produce their own food. They are incredibly important to the marine ecosystem because they are the foundation of the food chain.
* Zooplankton are the animals, which range from microscopic crustaceans to small jellyfish. They feed on phytoplankton and other zooplankton.
Here are some examples of phytoplankton and zooplankton:
Phytoplankton:
* Diatoms
* Dinoflagellates
* Coccolithophores
Zooplankton:
* Copepods
* Krill
* Jellyfish larvae
* Rotifers
Plankton are found in all types of water bodies, from oceans to lakes to ponds. They are essential for the health of aquatic ecosystems and play a vital role in the global carbon cycle.
