The Importance of Nektons in the Marine Food Web

Nektons are the small organisms, such as plankton, that are consumed by marine animals. These organisms are typically tiny, ranging in size from a few micrometers to a few millimeters, and are found in the water column or attached to surfaces. Nektons are an important food source for many marine animals, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

The term "nektons" was coined by oceanographer John Martin in the 1980s to describe the diverse array of small organisms that are consumed by marine animals. The word is derived from the Greek word "nekton," which means "swimmer."

Examples of nektons include:

* Phytoplankton, such as algae and cyanobacteria, which are consumed by zooplankton and other small marine animals.
* Zooplankton, such as copepods, krill, and other small crustaceans, which are consumed by larger marine animals.
* Other small organisms, such as jellyfish, salps, and sea turtles, which are also consumed by larger marine animals.

Nektons play a critical role in the marine food web, serving as a vital source of nutrients for many marine animals. They are also an important component of the ocean's carbon cycle, helping to regulate the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.