Planktivores

Definition

Planktivores are aquatic organisms that primarily feed on plankton. These species play a crucial role in aquatic food webs by transferring energy from primary producers to higher trophic levels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Planktivores include a variety of species such as small fish, some whales, and certain types of invertebrates.
2. They help control plankton populations, which can influence water quality and ecosystem health.
3. Many planktivorous fish are important to commercial fisheries and local economies.
4. Their feeding habits can affect the distribution and abundance of planktonic organisms in aquatic ecosystems.
5. Planktivores often exhibit specialized adaptations like gill rakers or filtering mechanisms to efficiently capture plankton.

Related terms

Plankton: A diverse group of tiny aquatic organisms that drift with water currents, including phytoplankton (plants) and zooplankton (animals).

Trophic Level: A position in a food web that is occupied by groups of organisms with similar feeding modes.

Gill Rakers: Structures in the mouths or throats of some fish that aid in filtering plankton from the water during feeding.