What is the difference between Zooplankton and Phytoplankton?

When you say phytoplankton, you are referring to different types of microalgae that can be seen drifting along with the water current. This is known to be one of the important parts of the ecosystem. Take note that this is usually seen in freshwater. When you say zooplankton, you are referring to different organisms that are usually in groups.

They are known to be floating in oceanic environments which means that you will normally find them in saltwater. One thing that should be remembered is this: phytoplankton are plants while zooplankton is known to be animals. There is a lot of zooplankton that eat phytoplankton.

The critical difference between zooplankton and phytoplankton is a microscopic photosynthetic organism that lives in rivers, lakes, fresh water, and streams. In contrast, zooplankton is a small aquatic organism that lives in bodies of water, but they cannot make their food. They have to rely on phytoplankton. Phytoplankton is planted, while zooplankton is animals. It is easy to remember the difference.

Phyto is the first part of photosynthesis, which is the way that plants make their food. The zoo is where a plethora of different animal species can be found. Phytoplankton acts as a leading producer in the aquatic food chains, while zooplankton is known as consumers. Zooplankton cannot make their food like phytoplankton. Phytoplankton also releases a lot of oxygen into the water, while zooplanktons are not capable of releasing oxygen.