Prelims 2021 · Environment · Question 22
Consider the following kinds of organisms:
- Copepods
- Cyanobacteria
- Diatoms
- Foraminifera
Which of the above are primary producers in the food chains of oceans?
Answer
2 and 3
Copepods – These are small crustacean zooplankton, generally consumers, not primary producers. Verdict: Incorrect.
Cyanobacteria – They are photosynthetic microorganisms and form an important part of marine phytoplankton, hence primary producers. Verdict: Correct.
Diatoms – These are photosynthetic algae and among the most important primary producers in oceans. Verdict: Correct.
Foraminifera – These are mostly heterotrophic protists in marine environments, not primary producers. Verdict: Incorrect.
Therefore, the correct pair is 2 and 3.