Free swimming macroscopic animals in an aquatic environment are referr

Free swimming macroscopic animals in an aquatic environment are referred to as

Plankton
Periphyton
Benthos
Nekton
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2017
Aquatic organisms are broadly classified based on their mode of life. Plankton are typically microscopic or small organisms that drift passively in the water column. Periphyton are organisms that are attached to submerged surfaces. Benthos are organisms that live on or in the bottom sediments of a body of water. Nekton are actively swimming aquatic animals that can move independently of water currents, such as fish, marine mammals, and large invertebrates. The description “free swimming macroscopic animals” directly matches the definition of nekton.
Nekton are actively swimming aquatic animals, distinguishing them from passively drifting plankton, attached periphyton, or bottom-dwelling benthos.
Examples of nekton include most fish species, whales, dolphins, seals, squids, and diving beetles. They occupy various trophic levels within the aquatic ecosystem. The ability to swim actively allows them to seek food, avoid predators, and navigate within their environment.
Exit mobile version