Plankton vary greatly in size, ranging from microscopic organisms to creatures nearly an inch long, and even larger species like some jellyfish.
Plankton are not a single type of organism but rather a diverse group defined by their drifting lifestyle. Because of this, their size varies significantly. Scientists classify plankton by size, among other characteristics.
Here's a breakdown of plankton size, based on information available on 16-Jun-2024:
- Microscopic Plankton: The majority of plankton are microscopic. Most are less than one inch in length.
- Larger Plankton: Plankton also include larger species such as some crustaceans and jellyfish.
- Size Classification: Scientists categorize plankton by size (along with type and how long they spend drifting). This classification helps in studying their roles in the ecosystem.
In summary, plankton size spans a considerable range, from barely visible to relatively large organisms.
