Chrysophyte Bloom (Biotic Group)

Component: Biotic

Unique Identifier: 469

Biotic Setting	Planktonic Biota
Biotic Class	Phytoplankton
Biotic Subclass	Chrysophyte Phytoplankton
Biotic Group	Chrysophyte Bloom
Biotic Community	Aureococcus Bloom

Description

Definition

Surface waters where rapid growth and very high densities of chrysophytes occur. These organisms form brown tide blooms that are common in coastal waters and estuaries and often damage seagrass beds (by shading).They also may exhibit toxicity to grazers and filter feeders.