plankton

word

Definition

Very small organisms that drift or float in water, especially in oceans and lakes, and serve as a main food source for many marine animals.

Usage & Nuances

'Plankton' is an uncountable noun (no plural form). It includes both plant plankton ('phytoplankton') and animal plankton ('zooplankton'). Commonly used in scientific, environmental, and oceanography contexts.

Example Sentences

Most marine life depends on plankton at some point in the food chain.

natural

Many fish eat plankton to survive.

basic

Whales filter plankton from the water for food.

basic

Plankton is important for the ocean ecosystem.

basic

In summer, there can be huge blooms of plankton near the coastline.

natural

If the amount of plankton decreases, it can affect the entire ocean.

natural