Why is marine snow so important for deep sea organisms?

Question

1)it allows animals to hide from whale fall
2)it makes the bottom of the ocean softer which is beneficial for certain animals' hunting strategies
3)it provides food for organisms where there otherwise would be very little food
4)it makes the bottom of the ocean more beautiful

Answer 1

Marine snow is important for deep-sea organisms primarily because 3) it provides food for organisms where there otherwise would be very little food. Marine snow consists of organic debris, such as dead plankton, fecal matter, and other detritus that drifts down from the upper layers of the ocean. In the deep sea, where sunlight does not penetrate and photosynthesis is not possible, this organic material acts as a crucial source of nutrients and energy for many deep-sea organisms, supporting diverse ecosystems in these otherwise food-scarce environments.