Today concluded our first week, it is very strange how fast this week has gone by. Today we focused on two main topics: the different zones of the ocean and plankton.
To begin with the ocean is a complex system consisting of many zones with different properties. The first are the Benthic zones which are the bottom most zones of the ocean. Next are the Pelagic zones which are the open water zones. These zones tie in to marine biology because they are home to the life which the ocean holds.
Next, Mr. Kirby and Doc went over the different types of planktons and their role. There are two main types of plankton the first are known as phytoplankton, they have the ability to photosynthesize. Phytoplankton are plant like organisms, which are the basis of the marine food chain. Next are zooplankton which are animal-like, they feed of the phytoplankton. Plankton play a vital role in marine life because they are the producers! They are at the bottom of the food chain, being the food of many many organisms.
This week has been very enjoyable and productive. I am loving marine biology so far and I am looking forward to what Kirbs and Doc have in store next week.
