SeaWiFS The Meaning of Ocean Color The Role of Phytoplankton The Carbon Absorbing Oceans

What are phytoplankton? Why are phytoplankton important? How could a fisherman use phytoplankton data? Ocean Productivity Activity QUICK FACTS Oceans absorb between 30% and 50% of the carbon dioxide produced by burning fossil fuel. Carbon dioxide is transported downwards by plankton. Any change in the temperature of the ocean water, influences the ability of plankton to take up carbon dioxide. This has consequences for the ecosystem, because plankton form the base of the food web. False color image representing phytoplankton concentrations in the ocean. Compare the concentration of phytoplankton in the ocean during different months of the year. Why are phytoplankton important? These small plants are the beginning of the food chain for most of the planet. As phytoplankton grow and multiply, small fish and other animals eat them as food. Larger animals then eat these smaller ones. The ocean fishing industry often finds good fishing spots by looking at ocean color images to locate areas rich in phytoplankton. Phytoplankton, as revealed by ocean color, frequently show scientists where ocean currents provide nutrients for plant growth. ln addition, the plants show where pollutants poison the ocean and prevent plant growth, and where subtle changes in the climate-warmer or colder more saline or less saline-affect phytoplankton growth. Since phytoplankton depend upon specific conditions for growth, they frequently become the first indicator of a change in their environment.

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