Krill Nutrition

At the top of the food chain is the human species- strong and dynamic. At the bottom of the food chain is one of the most abundant and widely consumed sea animals on the planet--krill. The word "krill" is derived from the Norwegian word for "small fry of fish," and this name describes krill to the letter.

Geography

Krill can be found in all oceans on the planet. Many species of krill are known to be transoceanic, meaning they travel from ocean to ocean and have no definite habitat.

Food Chain Significance

Krill are a very important link in the food chain. The krill themselves feed on the super tiny phytoplankton that many other larger animals cannot consume. The krill turn their food into nutrients in their own bodies, which are then consumed by larger animals such as: seals, baleen whales, fish and penguins. Without krill, many species that survive only on krill would become extinct.

Economic Significance

Krill isn't just a food source for sea life. Krill has been harvested in Japan and Russia for years as a food source for people and domesticated animals.

Nutritional Facts

Krill is basically a tiny shrimp. Its taste is salty and a bit stronger than the taste of ordinary shrimp. Krill oil is very high in Omega 3 oils, DHA and EPA, and is highly prized in modern day dietary supplements. Krill oil can reduce arthritis pain and increase joint function.

Dangers of Krill

When sold on the market, Krill must be shelled and peeled because their exoskeletons contain fluoride which is very dangerous in high concentrations.

References

• National Geographic