bacterioplankton

Bacterioplankton are tiny bacteria that live freely floating in the water column of oceans, lakes, and rivers. They play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems by breaking down organic materials, recycling nutrients, and supporting the food chain. Despite their small size, they are incredibly abundant and vital for maintaining water quality and overall ecosystem health. Bacterioplankton are different from those attached to surfaces or sediments; they drift with the water currents, contributing to processes like carbon cycling and nutrient transformation in aquatic environments.