Krill are often called a “trophic bridge” in marine ecosystems because they: 1. Feed on phytoplankton and serve as a primary food source for many larger marine animals. 2. Are responsible for regulating oceanic salinity levels through their migratory patterns. 3. Connect lower and higher trophic levels, thus maintaining the energy flow in the marine food web. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |ForumIAS

[A] 1 only

[B] 1 and 3 only

[C] 2 and 3 only

[D] All of the above

Answer: B

Notes:

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct because krill feed on phytoplankton and are a key food source for whales, seals, penguins, and other marine animals.
Statement 2 is incorrect; krill do not regulate oceanic salinity through their migration. Salinity is influenced mainly by evaporation, precipitation, river inflow, and ocean currents.
Statement 3 is correct as krill act as a critical link between the primary producers (phytoplankton) and higher trophic levels, thus maintaining energy flow in marine food webs.

Source- IE