Rhodopsin phototrophy promotes bacterial survival
A new photoprotein, proteorhodopsin, allows marine bacteria to harness sunlight energy and survive periods of starvation. This process enhances their survival in nutrient-depleted ocean environments.
Marine Photosynthesis
Articles tagged with Marine Photosynthesis
Aquatic 'dead zones' contributing to climate change
Increased frequency and intensity of oxygen-deprived 'dead zones' along the world's coasts contribute to climate change by emitting nitrous oxide into the atmosphere, exacerbating global warming. The production of nitrous oxide in these waters can lead to ozone holes and increased UV radiation exposure.
Ocean geoengineering scheme no easy fix for global warming
A new study suggests that pumping nutrient-rich water to boost algal growth and draw carbon dioxide from the atmosphere may not be an effective solution to combat global warming. The simulation results show modest climatic benefits, with potential risks of exacerbating global warming if the scheme fails.
K-State engineers strive to make algae oil production more feasible
Researchers at Kansas State University are exploring the feasibility of growing algae on large platforms in ocean water to produce oil. By understanding how algae attach to surfaces and grow, they aim to create a more efficient and cost-effective system for producing biodiesel, which could help the US transition away from fossil fuels.
Mapping nutrient distributions over the Atlantic Ocean
Researchers have mapped the large-scale distributions of dissolved organic nitrogen and phosphorus over the Atlantic Ocean, finding that these nutrients dominate surface waters and play a crucial role in export production. The study suggests that nutrient-poor regions, like subtropical gyres, rely on these nutrients to sustain life.
A new wrinkle in ancient ocean chemistry
A UC Riverside-led study found oxygen production via photosynthesis occurred in Earth's oceans at least 100 million years before the GOE, affecting ocean chemistry and potentially stimulating eukaryote evolution. The research suggests that even low concentrations of oxygen can have profound effects on ocean chemistry.
Arctic climate under greenhouse conditions in the Late Cretaceous
Scientists discover regular alternation of microscopically thin layers composed of distinct diatom assemblages, reflecting seasonal changes in the Arctic Ocean during the Late Cretaceous. This indicates exceptional abundances of diatoms adapted to stratified conditions, suggesting a pointer to future trends in the modern ocean.
Iron and biological production in the high-latitude North Atlantic
In the high-latitude North Atlantic, low iron availability unexpectedly limits summer biological production. Experimental results show that adding iron increases photosynthetic efficiency and growth of phytoplankton, but insufficient iron is available to support the bloom.
Study in Science cites impact of anthropogenic nitrogen on ocean biology, atmospheric CO2
A study published in Science reveals that anthropogenic nitrogen has a significant impact on ocean biology, photosynthesis, and the global carbon cycle. The research highlights how increased nitrogen deposition from human activities affects the oceans' ability to absorb CO2.
New twist on life's power source
Marine microorganisms have evolved a way to break the rules of photosynthesis, releasing less oxygen and absorbing fewer carbon dioxide. This discovery impacts our understanding of photosynthesis and its effect on atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
Variable light illuminates the distribution of picophytoplankton
A new study reveals that picophytoplankton species' tolerance of high light can explain their ocean-wide distribution. Different regions have distinct abilities to cope with variable light through rapid repair, driven by nutrient availability.
Synthetic production of potential pharmaceuticals dramatically simplified by Scripps research team
Researchers at Scripps Institute have developed a new method for producing potential pharmaceuticals from natural compounds, eliminating the need for expensive protecting groups. This breakthrough could lead to significantly reduced production costs and expand interest in natural products for commercial development.
Changes in west coast marine ecosystems significant
The California Current system has undergone dramatic variations in phytoplankton production, expanding hypoxic zones, and collapsing marine food webs off the western US coast. Climate change is consistent with predictive models of global climate change, but its definitive cause remains uncertain.
Global warming will reduce ocean productivity, marine life
A 10-year satellite-based analysis found that global warming reduces marine life and phytoplankton production, which removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and fuels ocean ecosystems. This study reveals a tight link between climate change and ocean productivity, highlighting the importance of understanding this feedback mechanism.
Iron critical to ocean productivity, carbon uptake
A new study found that large segments of the Pacific Ocean lack sufficient iron to trigger healthy phytoplankton growth, leading to overestimated ocean productivity. The researchers estimate a 2-4% reduction in global ocean carbon uptake due to this oversight.
Nitrogen in the air feeds the oceans
A USC oceanographer's long-term study confirms that the marine food chain depends largely on atmospheric nitrogen, which nourishes teeming life near the surface. The finding also demonstrates the oceans' substantial role in absorbing greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide.
Researchers find evidence of photosynthesis deep within the ocean
Researchers have found evidence of photosynthesis deep within the ocean, with green sulfur bacteria thriving near hydrothermal vents. This discovery expands our understanding of life's resilience and potential for existence on other planets.
New system can measure productivity of oceans
Researchers developed a new method to measure phytoplankton growth rates and biomass using satellite data, providing insights into the Earth's oceans. This discovery has significant implications for understanding marine ecosystems, fisheries, and climate change.
Researchers review evolutionary history of modern algae
Modern phytoplankton's evolutionary history reveals that their ancestors did not appear until 250 million years ago. The study found that changes in sea level, water chemistry and carbon-dioxide levels contributed to the rise of dominant phytoplankton groups.
Phytoplankton may stimulate uptake of CO2
Phytoplankton, tiny aquatic plants that convert carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, may play a crucial role in regulating Earth's atmosphere. A new study finds that iron fertilization can enhance the uptake of CO2 by phytoplankton, potentially making them more efficient carbon sinks.
Huge iceberg wreaks havoc on Antarctic marine ecosystem, study finds
A massive iceberg drifted into the Ross Sea, blocking sunlight and preventing phytoplankton growth, which are a critical food source for krill and other marine animals. This event had a significant impact on the entire food chain in the Ross Sea.
Scientists find key to ocean bacterium that helps control greenhouse gas
Researchers found that Prochlorococcus cyanobacteria traps atmospheric carbon dioxide and stores it in the deep sea through photosynthesis. The study reveals iron's critical role in this process, which could help combat global warming by increasing ocean levels of iron.
NASA satellite measures Earth's carbon metabolism
Scientists create composite maps of the world's 'net primary production' every 8 days, revealing how much carbon dioxide is taken in by vegetation during photosynthesis. The new measurement provides a global perspective on the Earth's carbon cycle and has implications for climate change, agriculture, and ocean productivity.
Rutgers-led researchers discover new photosynthetic bacteria that appear to be significant component of ocean's carbon cycle
Scientists have discovered a significant component of the ocean's carbon cycle, with photosynthetic bacteria found in virtually every surface water sample. These aerobic photoheterotrophic bacteria can produce organic matter and supply up to 40% of their energy from sunlight.
As A 'Carbon Sponge,' Iron-Poor Coastal Waters Can't Always Do The Job,NaturePaper Shows
Researchers discovered that a lack of iron limits phytoplankton growth in central California waters, impacting the entire marine food chain. This finding challenges existing climate change models and highlights the importance of iron in ocean carbon storage.