What is the role of plankton in the ocean food chain?

Plankton are tiny, microscopic organisms that play a critical role in the ocean food chain. They are the base of the food chain and are responsible for providing the primary source of food for many marine organisms. Plankton can be divided into two main categories: phytoplankton and zooplankton.

Phytoplankton are the primary producers in the ocean and are responsible for photosynthesis. They use sunlight and carbon dioxide to produce organic matter, which serves as food for zooplankton and other organisms in the ocean.

Zooplankton are the primary consumers in the ocean and feed on phytoplankton. They are also an important source of food for larger marine animals such as fish, whales, and sharks. Some types of zooplankton, such as krill, are also commercially harvested for use in animal feed and other products.

Without plankton, the ocean food chain would collapse, and many marine organisms would be at risk of starvation. They are an essential part of the ecosystem and play a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ocean's food chain.