Neuston are organisms associated with the surface layer of aquatic ecosystems and are composed of two subdivisions. Species living on the surface of water are referred to as epineuston, and those living below the surface layer are referred to as hyponeuston.

What is neuston in microbiology?

neuston, group of organisms found on top of or attached to the underside of the surface film of water. The neuston includes insects such as whirligig beetles and water striders, some spiders and protozoans, and occasional worms, snails, insect larvae, and hydras.

What's the difference between pleuston and neuston?

Neuston refers to organisms that float on the top of the water (epineuston) or live right under the surface (hyponeuston), while pleuston refers to organisms that live in the thin surface layer existing at the air-water interface of a body of water.