What would happen if phytoplankton of an ocean is completely destroyed...
The Role of Phytoplankton
Phytoplankton are microscopic organisms that play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They are the foundation of the aquatic food web and significantly influence global carbon cycles.
1. Impact on Ocean as a Carbon Sink
- Phytoplankton absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, acting as a major carbon sink.
- Their destruction would reduce the ocean's ability to sequester carbon, leading to increased atmospheric CO2 levels.
- This could exacerbate climate change and global warming.
2. Disruption of Food Chains
- Phytoplankton serve as the primary food source for many marine organisms, including zooplankton, fish, and larger marine mammals.
- A complete loss of phytoplankton would collapse food chains, leading to mass starvation of marine life.
- This disruption could result in a significant decline in fish populations, affecting global fisheries and food security.
3. Density of Ocean Water
- While phytoplankton contribute to biological activity, their complete destruction would not drastically decrease the density of ocean water.
- Ocean density is primarily influenced by temperature, salinity, and pressure rather than the biomass of phytoplankton.
- Therefore, this statement is incorrect.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is option 'A' because the elimination of phytoplankton would significantly impact the ocean as a carbon sink and adversely affect marine food chains. However, it would not drastically change the density of ocean water, making statements 1 and 2 true, while 3 is false.