Tag: Phytoplankton

Phytoplankton are microscopic marine organisms that form the base of the ocean food chain and are the original producers of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA. Fish and other marine animals accumulate their omega-3 content by consuming these tiny algae.

Over 64% of consumers globally have expressed a preference for plant-based omega-3 alternatives, reflecting a growing awareness of sustainability and health. This shift has put marine phytoplankton, the original source of omega-3s for fish, directly in the spotlight as a potential alternative to traditional fish oil supplements.

Marine phytoplankton account for nearly half of the global net primary productivity, and their consumption of essential elements is a primary process that removes the nutrients from the surface layer of the ocean. This biological activity initiates a complex chain of events that moves nutrients from the sunlit surface to the deep ocean, influencing global climate and marine food webs.

Despite the abundance of mineral nutrients in the ocean, the concentration of essential vitamins, particularly B vitamins, is extremely low in seawater, often at picomolar levels. This scarcity makes vitamins a limiting factor for the growth of many marine organisms, revealing a complex and delicate balance in the aquatic ecosystem.

While whales and other marine life consume plankton in vast quantities, the question of whether humans can digest plankton is complex. Humans can consume and assimilate the nutrients from certain types of cultivated phytoplankton, primarily as a dietary supplement. However, the indigestible cell walls of some species and potential toxicity from wild-harvested sources present significant challenges.

Despite common misconceptions, a significant 2024 study clarified that the commercially sold spirulina belongs to the genus *Limnospira*, not the true *Spirulina* genus. This taxonomic detail is just one of many differences between spirulina and the broader category of phytoplankton. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone looking to incorporate these nutrient-dense microorganisms into their diet, as they differ significantly in their biological classification, habitat, and nutritional makeup.

Phytoplankton is responsible for up to 90% of the world's atmospheric oxygen production through photosynthesis. This microscopic organism forms the base of the marine food chain and offers a robust nutritional profile, raising the question: what vitamins are in phytoplankton?

It is estimated that phytoplankton produce at least 50% of the Earth's oxygen, providing the oxygen for every second breath we take. This microscopic marine life is far more than just a source of oxygen; the question of "do humans need phytoplankton?" is a resounding yes, tied to our very existence through atmospheric stability, the food web, and overall planetary health.

While commonly associated with industrial use, with an estimated 650,000 tons used annually for oil extraction, few realize its origins are also natural. This versatile chemical, known primarily as an industrial solvent, actually comes from several surprising natural sources of hexane and is a regular, albeit minor, part of our environment.

An estimated 50-85% of Earth's oxygen is produced by microscopic marine organisms called phytoplankton. Understanding what is a good source of oxygen requires looking beyond just terrestrial plants to encompass natural, medical, and lifestyle factors that contribute to both global and personal well-being.