Which of the following are the most abundant animals found in the pelagic zone of the ocean?

• A. Copepods and other small crustaceans
• B. Jellyfish and comb jellies
• C. Sea stars and sea urchins
• D. Octopuses and squids

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'pelagic zone': The pelagic zone refers to the open ocean, away from the shore and the ocean floor. It is characterized by organisms that live in the water column rather than on the seabed.
2. Identify the types of organisms typically found in the pelagic zone: Organisms in this zone are often small, free-floating, or swimming creatures adapted to life in the open water.
3. Analyze the options provided: Copepods and other small crustaceans are planktonic organisms that are abundant in the pelagic zone. Jellyfish and comb jellies are also common in this zone due to their ability to drift with ocean currents. Sea stars and sea urchins are benthic organisms, meaning they live on the ocean floor, not in the pelagic zone. Octopuses and squids are nektonic organisms, but they are less abundant compared to copepods and small crustaceans.
4. Focus on abundance: Copepods and other small crustaceans are considered the most abundant animals in the pelagic zone because they form a significant part of the zooplankton, which serves as a primary food source for many marine species.
5. Conclude based on ecological roles: Copepods and small crustaceans play a crucial role in the marine food web, making them the most abundant animals in the pelagic zone compared to the other options provided.