The Term "Plankton" ____

Question

The term "plankton" ____.  
A) refers to a taxonomic division of algae
B) is a common term for microscopic organisms that drift or swim weakly in water
C) includes only multicellular forms
D) refers to small aquatic plants
E) would apply to large brown algae

Accepted Answer

The term "plankton" is a common term used to refer to microscopic organisms that drift or swim weakly in water. It includes both plants (phytoplankton) and animals (zooplankton). It is not a taxonomic division of algae, nor does it only include multicellular forms. It also includes small unicellular organisms such as diatoms and dinoflagellates.