Phytoplankton

Phytoplankton are typically microscopic organisms that perform photosynthesis and form the base of most foodwebs in the ocean. They are a diverse community of organisms that includes important groups such as coccolithophorids, cyanobacteria, diatoms and dinoflagellates. Primary production by phytoplankton is the main driver for the biogeochemical cycles of the major elements (C, N, P, Si) in the ocean.

External links

• Phytoplankton description, Wikipedia
• Primary production description, Wikipedia