Coccolithophores are tiny, single-celled marine organisms that belong to the group of phytoplankton. They are known for their unique calcium carbonate plates, called coccoliths, which form a protective shell around their bodies. These organisms play a crucial role in the ocean's ecosystem by contributing to the carbon cycle and serving as a food source for various marine animals. Found in both warm and temperate ocean waters, coccolithophores thrive in sunlight-rich environments. They are important for global climate regulation, as they help sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Their blooms can also influence ocean color, making them significant in studies related to climate change and marine biology.