Plankton: Understanding These Essential Aquatic Organisms

The tiny free floating weakly swimming algae and animals that occur in both freshwater saltwater environments are called plankton. Plankton are a diverse group of organisms that include phytoplankton, zooplankton, and neuston. Phytoplankton are plant-like organisms that can photosynthesize, while zooplankton are animal-like organisms that graze on phytoplankton and other small organisms. Neuston are organisms that live at the surface of the water, including insects, spiders, and some crustaceans.