Plankton are consumed by a variety of marine organisms, ranging from small crustaceans to larger fish.
Creatures That Feast on Plankton
Several types of marine life depend on plankton as a primary food source. According to available information, plankton is a vital part of the ocean's food web. The creatures that eat plankton include:
- Younger fish: Many juvenile fish species rely on plankton during their early stages of development.
- Plankton-feeding fishes: Specific fish species, such as menhaden and herrings, are specialized to feed on plankton.
- Crustaceans: Various crustaceans like crabs, lobsters, and shrimp consume plankton.
- Other sea animals: A diverse array of marine animals also incorporate plankton into their diets.
These plankton eaters, in turn, become prey for larger carnivores like tuna, halibut, shark, and squid, illustrating the crucial role plankton plays in sustaining marine ecosystems.
