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Nekton |
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nekton: see marine biology marine biology, study of ocean plants and animals and their ecological relationships. Marine organisms may be classified (according to their mode of life) as nektonic, planktonic, or benthic. Nektonic animals are those that swim and migrate freely, e.g.
..... Click the link for more information. . nekton [′nek·tən] (invertebrate zoology) Free-swimming aquatic animals, essentially independent of water movements. Nekton the division of the pelagic population that comprises the free-swimming animals. Nekton are capable of withstanding the force of the ocean current and are able to travel over long distances. Fish, squids, cetaceans, pinnipeds, sea snakes, turtles, and penguins constitute the nekton group. A streamlined body shape and a well-developed locomotory apparatus are characteristic of nekton. In complete contrast to the nekton are the plankton, which are helplessly carried by the ocean currents. The micronekton, represented by animals capable of limited active locomotion, occupy an intermediate position between the plankton and nekton. The micronekton include fry and small species of fish and squids, the larger members of the suborder Natantia, and the euphausiids. Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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