What is the role of zooplankton in coastal food webs and how do they respond to phytoplankton blooms?

• A. They photosynthesize.
• B. Zooplankton convert phytoplankton production into higher trophic energy; they respond with increased feeding, rapid reproduction during blooms; blooms can deplete oxygen when decomposition occurs.
• C. They are apex predators.
• D. They are dormant during blooms.

Answer: (B)