marine productivity

Marine productivity refers to the rate at which marine plants, primarily phytoplankton and seaweed, produce organic matter through photosynthesis. These organisms use sunlight, nutrients, and carbon dioxide to create food that forms the foundation of the ocean’s food chain. Higher marine productivity means more abundant and diverse marine life, supporting commercially important fish and maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. Factors influencing productivity include sunlight availability, nutrient levels (like nitrogen and phosphorus), temperature, and ocean currents that distribute nutrients. Overall, marine productivity is essential for sustaining oceanic biodiversity and contributing to global carbon cycling.