neuston

[ noo-ston, nyoo- ]

noun

1. the aggregate of minute aquatic organisms that float or swim in the surface film of a body of water.

neuston

/ ˈnjuːstən /

noun

1. organisms, similar to plankton, that float on the surface film of open water
2. the ecosystem of the surface film of open water in which such organisms as copepods graze on tiny flagellates, bacteria, etc

Derived Forms

• neusˈtonic, adjective

Other Words From

• neustic neus·ton·ic [noo-, ston, -ik, nyoo-], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of neuston¹

1925–30; < German; noun use of neuter of Greek neustós swimming, verbid of neîn to swim

Word History and Origins

Origin of neuston¹

C20: via German from Greek neustos swimming, from nein to swim