Coccolithophores have calcium carbonate plates (coccoliths) that provide structural support and contribute to carbon cycling in the ocean, aiding in buoyancy and photosynthesis.
Coccolithophores, a type of phytoplankton, possess distinctive features that contribute to their survival in aquatic environments. One key characteristic is the presence of calcium carbonate plates known as coccoliths. These microscopic structures surround the cell, forming a protective shield. The coccoliths serve a dual purpose – they provide structural support to the cell and also play a crucial role in regulating buoyancy.
The coccoliths create a buoyant effect, allowing coccolithophores to remain suspended in the upper layers of the water column where sunlight is more abundant. This positioning is advantageous for photosynthesis, a vital process for these organisms. Through photosynthesis, coccolithophores convert sunlight into energy, utilizing chlorophyll and other pigments within their cells.