Phytoplankton – Role in aquatic ecosystems and remote sensing Which statements about phytoplankton are correct in the context of oceanography and bio-optical remote sensing?

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:

  • Focus on photosynthetic planktonic organisms.
  • Food web structure with phytoplankton at the base.
  • Use of sunlight and dissolved nutrients to synthesize biomass.


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:

  • “None of these” contradicts accepted biological and remote sensing frameworks.


Common Pitfalls:
Equating all plankton with phytoplankton; zooplankton are consumers, not primary producers.


Final Answer:
All of these

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