Superpowers
Sardines, anchovy and plankton
Plankton are are marine drifters and are carried along by currents and tides. They are tiny, and mostly cannot be seen by the human eye.
There are two types. Phytoplankton, which are plants, and Zooplankton that are animals.
Making their Own Food!
Phytoplankton turn the sun’s rays into energy, meaning they make their own food. This is called photosynthesis. Because they need the sun’s energy, they are found near the water’s surface.
Lungs of the Planet
When Phytoplankton make their own food, they absorb carbon dioxide and secrete oxygen. They make nearly half of the world's oxygen!
Who are Zooplankton?
Zooplankton are microscopic animals like jellyfish, krill, young fish, sea snails and pelagic worms.
Zooplankton are seen from Space
Most zooplankton eat phytoplankton.
During the daylight hours, they drift in deeper waters to avoid predators.
At night, they go up to the surface to feed on phytoplankton. The many trillions of zooplankton on this journey can be seen from space! Far out!
