Phytoplankton

did you know phytoplankton are the biggest producer of oxygen in the world. they are tiny plants also known as micro-algae that live on the ocean's surface, producing more than 50% of the oxygen in the atmosphere. more than trees and forests.

they contain chlorophyll and grow through photosynthesis similar to terrestrial plants, Using the sun to convert co2 into energy to grow and live, through this process they release oxygen, the oxygen we breath.

they are also at the base of the oceans food chain which makes them essential to ocean life as well as ours. Providing food for a wide range of aquatic creatures including shrimp, jellyfish, whales ad sails. Meaning they are vital to a balanced ecosystem.

In some cases if they get too may nutrients phytoplankton can grow out of control and cause harm to water, creating algae blooms that produce extremely toxic compounds that can harm fish, shellfish, mammals, birds and even humans. so a balanced eco system is best for all.

there are two kinds of phytoplankton, diatoms and dinoflagellates. Diatoms are static in the water using the oceans current to move them, they are composed of complex shells and have a rigid structure made of interlocking parts. however Dinoflagellates use a whip like tails, flagella to move through the water and are also made up of shells.

unfortunately though due to the warming of waters through climate change, phytoplankton are becoming endangered and their population decreasing. Migration of phytoplankton to cooler waters could impact marine life as well.

We need to protect our oceans, since they do produce the water and air we need to survive.