Filter feeding is a method used by various aquatic animals to obtain food. These organisms, such as clams, oysters, and whales, filter small particles like plankton and detritus from the water. They often have specialized structures, like gills or baleen, that help them trap and consume these tiny food sources while allowing water to flow through. This feeding strategy is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems. By filtering large volumes of water, filter feeders help to clean the water and recycle nutrients. Their activity supports the food web, providing energy for larger predators and contributing to the overall balance of aquatic environments.