Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: All of these
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Phytoplankton drive primary production in oceans and inland waters, shaping biogeochemical cycles. Ocean-colour satellites infer phytoplankton biomass (e.g., via chlorophyll-a proxies) from water-leaving radiance in blue–green wavelengths.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
By definition, phytoplankton are photosynthetic. Through photosynthesis, they fix inorganic carbon and use nitrogen/phosphorus to build organic matter, supporting zooplankton and higher trophic levels. Remote sensors detect pigment-mediated absorption/scattering to estimate their abundance.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Confirm identity: microscopic, photosynthetic organisms.Establish trophic role: primary producers at the base of aquatic food chains.Describe function: convert solar energy and dissolved nutrients into biomass.
Verification / Alternative check:
Standard marine ecology texts and satellite algorithm documentation (e.g., blue/green band ratios) consistently reflect these definitions and roles.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Equating all plankton with phytoplankton; zooplankton are consumers, not primary producers.
Final Answer:
All of these
Discussion & Comments