ClimateAugust 26, 2026

phytoplankton

FY-toe-plangk-tun

Definition

Microscopic, plant-like marine organisms that drift in ocean currents and perform photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide into organic matter.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Greek 'phyton' (plant) and 'planktos' (wandering or drifting), reflecting these organisms' nature as tiny drifters that behave like plants.

In the news

The article discusses using ocean nutrient fertilization and artificial upwelling to stimulate the growth of phytoplankton, which in turn helps sequester carbon from the atmosphere.

New Zealand Captures Carbon On Land For Climate Change Mitigation: What About In The Ocean?

Read the full article ↗

Scoop - New Zealand News

Related words

alkalinity

A measure of the capacity of a substance, such as seawater, to neutralize acids, often…

Climate

cryospheric

Relating to the cryosphere, which consists of the frozen water parts of the Earth's…

Climate

escarpment

A long, steep slope or cliff at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at…

Climate

geohazard

A geological process or phenomenon that may cause loss of life, injury, or damage to…

Climate

geomorphic

Relating to the physical form and configuration of the Earth's surface and the processes…

Climate

kinematic

Relating to the motion of objects or systems without consideration of the forces that…

Climate

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.