coccolithophores
Coccolithophores are tiny marine organisms, specifically a type of phytoplankton, that play a crucial role in ocean ecosystems. They have distinctive calcium carbonate plates, called coccoliths, which they produce and release into the water when they die. These organisms are important for carbon cycling, as they absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, helping to regulate global climate. Coccolithophores also contribute significantly to the formation of chalk and limestone deposits, impacting geology. They are a fundamental part of the ocean food web, serving as a food source for various marine life.
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Coccolithophores are tiny, marine algae that play a vital role in the ocean ecosystem. They are unique because they produce calcium carbonate plates, called coccoliths, that cover their surfaces. These algae are found in surface waters and are important for photosynthesis, helping to produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide. They also contribute to the ocean's food web, serving as food for various marine organisms. When they die, their coccoliths accumulate on the ocean floor, forming sedimentary rock, which is significant for the Earth's geology and climate history.