Atmospheric nourishment of global ocean ecosystems
Westberry, T.K.; Behrenfeld, M.J.; Shi, Y.R.; Yu, H.; Remer, L.A.; Bian, H. (2023). Atmospheric nourishment of global ocean ecosystems. Science (Wash.) 380(6644): 515-519. https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.abq5252
In: Science (Washington). American Association for the Advancement of Science: New York, N.Y. ISSN 0036-8075; e-ISSN 1095-9203, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Westberry, T.K.
- Behrenfeld, M.J.
- Shi, Y.R.
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- Yu, H.
- Remer, L.A.
- Bian, H.
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| Abstract |
Over the vast open ocean, vital nutrients for phytoplankton growth in the sunlit surface layer are largely provided through physical transport from deep waters, but some nutrients are also provided through atmospheric deposition of desert dust. The extent and magnitude of dust-mediated effects on surface ocean ecosystems have been difficult to estimate globally. In this work, we use global satellite ocean color products to demonstrate widespread responses to atmospheric dust deposition across a diverse continuum of phytoplankton nutritional conditions. The observed responses vary regionally, with some areas exhibiting substantial changes in phytoplankton biomass, whereas in other areas, the response reflects a change in physiological status or health. Climate-driven changes in atmospheric aerosols will alter the relative importance of this nutrient source. |
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