The Role of Plankton Waste in Carbon Dioxide Absorption

Scientists at the UK National Oceanography Centre have begun research on the 'twilight zone' of the ocean and the role of plankton in absorbing carbon dioxide. The twilight zone refers to the area of the ocean at depths of 100 to 1000 meters where only a small amount of sunlight penetrates. According to Reuters, scientists from the UK oceanography center state that numerous organisms live in this mysterious ocean region, significantly impacting the reduction of carbon dioxide levels. Without these plankton, carbon dioxide levels would be 30% higher than current amounts. Research in this ocean area has always been challenging for scientists, as their equipment is typically designed to either float on the water's surface or descend to the ocean floor. Dr. Stephanie Hansen, a biochemist and oceanographer, discusses the new research, stating that just like garden plants, ocean phytoplankton also absorb carbon dioxide from the Earth's atmosphere. The difference is that when these phytoplankton sink, they remain at the ocean floor and, having no contact with the air, trap carbon dioxide for extended periods. This way, they reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. According to her, a better understanding of the carbon transfer process in the ocean could provide more accurate predictions of climate change. Professor Richard Sanders leads a research team testing a device for collecting samples of these plankton, called 'Plagra.' Sanders explains that this device is designed to sample the important and key ocean region known as the twilight zone, where only a small amount of light penetrates. This device collects samples from depths of 50 to 500 meters, where most activities occur. Many things sink in this area, and organisms consume them. We want to know what they do. The Plagra sediment traps help scientists examine the amount of carbon entering the ocean, measured by studying sediment deposition over time. The phenomenon of sediment sinking to the ocean floor is referred to as 'marine snow.' This sediment includes plankton, dead plants, and plankton waste. Hansen explained that 'marine snow' is formed from dead phytoplankton that stick together. After sticking together, these phytoplankton become heavy and can sink to the depths of the ocean. On the other hand, small creatures eat the small plants and excrete carbon in the form of waste. Because the waste of these small creatures is very heavy, it sinks to the ocean floor, thus bringing a large amount of carbon to the ocean depths. According to Hansen, scientists have known for 50 years that marine snow is a process for removing carbon from the Earth's atmosphere. However, it has only recently been that advanced technologies have allowed for precise calculations of this process. This research team is set to conduct two separate missions in the South Atlantic Ocean to determine why marine snow occurs more in some areas than others. Hansen stated that the results of this research could also lead to the design of more complex climate models that can provide more accurate predictions of Earth's climate changes.