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Sea Sparkle and Marine Food Chain
Why is it in News?
- According to Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), ‘Sea sparkle’ has affected marine food chain.
Details:
- Karnataka coast witnessed bloom of sea sparkle.
- It has displaced microscopic algae called diatoms, which form the basis of the marine food chain.
- It affected planktivorous fish which are dependent on diatoms for food.
- It also accumulate ammonia which affects activities of creatures.
- Sea Sparkle:
(1) Its scientific name is ‘Noctiluca Scintillans’.
(2) It depends on other micro-organisms such as larvae, fish eggs, and diatoms.
(3) But the unicellular phytoplankton that live inside it can photosynthesise and turn sunlight into energy.
(4) They help their host cell survive even when food was scarce. Thus, it acts as both a plant and an animal.
