Question

Which of the following autotrophs are the dominant producers of marine ecosystems?

• A. Benthic brown algae and red algae
• B. Benthic diatoms and marine viruses
• C. Sea grasses and slime moulds
• D. Free floating algae, microalgae, cyanobacteria

Answer 1

The correct option is D Free floating algae, microalgae, cyanobacteria

Free floating green algae and cynobacteria are seen in large number in marine ecosystems. These algae with the green pigment chlorophyll, have high photosynthetic efficiency and serve as the dominant producers of the marine ecosystems. The brown algae and red algae found deeper in the marine ecosystems, with lower light penetration are not as photosynthetically efficient and are lesser in number compared to the dominant producers.