Tiny Terrors of the Ocean: Planktonic Viruses and Parasites

While plankton are often recognized as the foundation of the marine food web, they also host a world of secret and efficient killers: viruses and parasites. These tiny organisms, just as diverse as their free-living counterparts, play crucial roles in shaping ocean health, with significant impacts on fisheries and aquaculture. By understanding their dynamics, lifecycles, and interactions with other organisms, we can appreciate their role in marine ecosystems and develop strategies for sustainable marine resource management.