Question

The organisms found attached over the surface of vegetation is called as

• A. Parasite
• B. Creepers
• C. Periphyton
• D. Nekton

Hint:

Aquatic Community Habitats:
PERIPHYTON = Attached to submerged vegetation/substrates (Aufwuchs).
NEKTON = Free-swimming animals.
NEUSTON = Surface film dwellers.
BENTHOS = Bottom sediment dwellers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Limnological and aquatic ecological community zoning: periphyton (Aufwuchs) represents the diverse microfloral and microfaunal biofilm adhering to submerged aquatic substrates, plants, and stems.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Ecological classification of freshwater/marine life forms by habitat:
1. Periphyton (Aufwuchs) (C): The complex benthic community of sessile micro-organisms—including attached algae (diatoms, green algae), cyanobacteria, sessile ciliates, rotifers, and detrital organic biofilm—growing attached to submerged aquatic vegetation, submerged plant stems, rocks, or artificial substrates. Forms an essential primary food source for grazing herbivorous fishes (e.g., Rohu, Tilapia).
2. Nekton: Free-swimming active organisms (fishes, squids).
3. Plankton: Drifting pelagic organisms.
4. Neuston: Organisms living at the air-water surface interface.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, organisms attached over vegetation surfaces are called Periphyton, matching option (C).