Prochlorococcus
Prochlorococcus marinus
Prochlorococcus marinus is one of the smallest known photosynthetic organisms on Earth, measuring less than one micrometer in size. This tiny bacterium lives as part of the phytoplankton and floats in the sunlit surface waters of the ocean. Although each cell is invisible to the naked eye, billions of them together make Prochlorococcus one of the most abundant organisms in the sea.
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About this species
Species identity
Prochlorococcus marinus is one of the smallest known photosynthetic organisms on Earth, measuring less than one micrometer in size. This tiny bacterium lives as part of the phytoplankton and floats in the sunlit surface waters of the ocean. Although each cell is invisible to the naked eye, billions of them together make Prochlorococcus one of the most abundant organisms in the sea.
Where it lives
It is found in warm and temperate oceans around the world. It lives in the sunlit surface layers of the open ocean, especially in clear waters far from the coast.
Role in the ecosystem
It makes its own food using sunlight and forms part of the base of the ocean food web. It is eaten by tiny marine organisms, helping transfer energy to larger animals in the ecosystem. Because it is extremely abundant, it plays an important role in producing oxygen and supporting life in the open ocean.
Scientific reference
Ocean Literacy Connections
This resource can be explored through Ocean biodiversity, Ocean makes life possible and Ocean and climate.
- How do ocean habitats support so many forms of life and interaction?
- How does the ocean help make Earth habitable?
- What ocean processes help shape climate and weather patterns?
Explore and connect
Open the primary producer view and compare this species with related marine life.
FAQ
Why is Prochlorococcus marinus important even though it is so small?
Although each cell is extremely tiny, trillions of them live in the ocean. Together, they help produce a significant amount of the oxygen on Earth and support life in the open ocean.
Can Prochlorococcus marinus be seen without a microscope?
No, each cell is much smaller than the width of a human hair and can only be seen with powerful microscopes. However, huge numbers of these bacteria live in the sunlit ocean.