Cryptophyte Maximum Layer (Biotic Group)

Component: Biotic

Unique Identifier: 479

Biotic Setting	Planktonic Biota
Biotic Class	Phytoplankton
Biotic Subclass	Cryptophyte Phytoplankton
Biotic Group	Cryptophyte Maximum Layer
Biotic Community	Teleaulax Maximum Layer

Description

Definition

Relatively thin layer dominated by cryptophytes at depth in the water column. Motility allows the group to avoid predation and to optimize their heterotrophic grazing.