noun
- aquatic animals that swim actively and move independently of water currents, such as fish, whales, and squid
Usage: biology; ecology; used in contrast to plankton (drifting organisms) and benthos (bottom-dwelling organisms)
Examples
- Fish and dolphins are examples of nekton in the ocean.
- Nekton includes all organisms capable of swimming against water currents.
- The study of nekton helps scientists understand ocean ecosystems.
- Unlike plankton, nekton can move freely through the water column.
- Whales, sharks, and squid are all classified as nekton.
- Marine biologists divide aquatic life into plankton, nekton, and benthos.