Definition

A tiny plant-like organism that lives in water and can photosynthesize, forming the base of the aquatic food chain.

Example

Phytoplankters are essential for the health of marine ecosystems as they produce oxygen and serve as food for many sea creatures.

Conversation

Did you know that a single phytoplankter can be so tiny yet so important to the ecosystem?

Really? I had no idea they played such a big role.

Yeah, they produce a lot of the oxygen we breathe.

That's fascinating! I should learn more about them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phytoplankter → It is formed from "phyto-" (from Greek "phyton", meaning plant) and "plankter" (from Greek "planktos", meaning wandering or drifting). The word refers to drifting plants or plant-like organisms in water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'plants' ('phyto-') that are 'drifting' ('planktos') in the water — that's what phytoplankters are.

Visually Confused Words