What would happen if phytoplankton of an ocean is completely destroyed for some reason? 1. The ocean as a carbon sink would be adversely affected. 2. The food chains in the ocean would be adversely affected. 3. The density of ocean water would drastically decrease. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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YESPYQ · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: 1 and 2 only. Phytoplanktons are the primary producers in the ma- rine food chain and hence they are called the ‘grass of the sea’. They contribute more than half of the oxygen in the environment and help in reducing global warming by absorbing human-in- duced carbon dioxide. They are important bioindicators regulat- ing life in oceAns: Statements 1 is correct: If phytoplankton are destroyed then less CO₂ will be absorbed thereby increasing atmospheric carbon and contributing to global warming. Phytoplankton are responsi- ble for carbon fixation through photosynthesis. They absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere and convert it into organic matter. When phytoplankton die, some of this carbon sinks to the ocean floor, sequestering it for long periods. Statements 2 is correct: Phytoplankton are the primary produc- ers in marine ecosystems forming the base of the food web. They are consumed by zooplankton which in turn are eaten by larger organisms like fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. The destruc- tion of phytoplankton would disrupt the entire marine food chain and can lead t

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