Mycoplankton

An overview of mycoplankton, their ecological roles, and significance in marine ecosystems.

Mycoplankton are a diverse group of fungi that inhabit aquatic environments, particularly within the plankton community. These organisms play crucial roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and as part of the food web in marine and freshwater ecosystems.

Overview

Mycoplankton are primarily composed of fungal spores, hyphal fragments, and yeast-like cells that are suspended in the water column. They are an integral component of the microbial loop, contributing to the breakdown of organic material and facilitating nutrient recycling.

Ecological Roles

Mycoplankton serve several important ecological functions:

Decomposition

Mycoplankton are key decomposers in aquatic environments. They break down complex organic materials, such as dead plant and animal matter, into simpler compounds. This process releases nutrients back into the ecosystem, making them available for other organisms, such as phytoplankton and zooplankton.

Nutrient Cycling

Through their decomposing activities, mycoplankton contribute to the cycling of essential nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. This cycling is vital for maintaining the productivity and health of aquatic ecosystems.

Food Web Dynamics

Mycoplankton are a food source for various aquatic organisms, including protozoa, small crustaceans, and other microorganisms. They form a crucial link in the aquatic food web, transferring energy from decomposed organic matter to higher trophic levels.

Diversity

The diversity of mycoplankton is vast, encompassing numerous fungal taxa. Common groups include:

• Ascomycota: This phylum includes many species of yeasts and filamentous fungi that are prevalent in aquatic environments.
• Basidiomycota: Known for their role in decomposing wood and other plant materials, some members of this group are also found in aquatic habitats.
• Chytridiomycota: These fungi are primarily aquatic and are known for their role in decomposing cellulose and other complex carbohydrates.

Research and Importance

Research on mycoplankton is ongoing, with scientists exploring their roles in biogeochemical cycles, their interactions with other microorganisms, and their potential applications in biotechnology. Understanding mycoplankton dynamics is crucial for predicting the impacts of environmental changes, such as climate change and pollution, on aquatic ecosystems.

Also see

• Plankton
• Phytoplankton
• Zooplankton
• Microbial loop
• Fungi