What creature are plankton?

Plankton are not a single creature, but rather a diverse group of organisms that drift in the water column. They can be plants (phytoplankton) or animals (zooplankton).

Here's a breakdown:

* Phytoplankton: These are microscopic plants, like algae, that use sunlight to produce their own food through photosynthesis. They are the base of the marine food web, providing food for zooplankton and other organisms.

* Zooplankton: These are microscopic animals, including tiny crustaceans, jellyfish larvae, and protozoans. They feed on phytoplankton and other zooplankton.

So, when we talk about plankton, we're talking about a vast community of organisms that play a vital role in aquatic ecosystems.