Marine phytoplankton

Marine phytoplankton are tiny, plant-like organisms that drift freely in the ocean's surface waters. As microscopic producers, they perform photosynthesis, using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and nutrients to create their own food and release oxygen, much like land plants. Despite their small size, they are fundamental to ocean ecosystems, forming the base of the marine food web and supporting a vast diversity of marine life. Additionally, they play a vital role in regulating Earth's climate by absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.