2010-01-01

Important New Understanding Of Atlantic Ocean Achieved

The distribution of two important nutients  - dissolved organic nitrogen and dissolved organic phosphorus (DON and DOP)- have been systematically mapped over the entire Atlantic Ocean for the first time. The findings have important implications for understanding the biological carbon pump in the Atlantic Ocean.

Plant plankton living in upper waters of the oceans produce organic matter through the process of photosynthesis, thereby drawing carbon dioxide down from the atmosphere. Some of this sinks as 'marine snow' to the deep ocean.

The plankton growth requires nutrients for growth, as well as sunlight. However, inorganic nutrients are in short supply in vast areas of the oceans. This means that "understanding the sources and distribution of nutrients is of major interest...." says Sinhue Torres-Valdes who led the research.

The new study involved scientists based at the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton and the University of Liverpool.

For more information: Science Daily

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