What does the term nekton refer to in aquatic ecosystems?

Nekton refers to the group of organisms in aquatic ecosystems that are capable of active swimming. These organisms are typically larger and more mobile than other aquatic inhabitants, such as plankton. Nekton includes a variety of species, such as fish, squid, and marine mammals, which can move independently of water currents and often occupy different water column levels.

This characteristic of active swimming distinguishes nekton from other categories of aquatic organisms, such as plankton, which drift in the water and are unable to swim against currents, and benthos, which live on or in the bottom of the water body and do not have the same mobility. Understanding the role of nekton in aquatic ecosystems is essential, as they are often key predators and play significant roles in nutrient cycling and energy flow within these environments.