Authors: James A. Brandes, David A. Hutchins, Kimberly W. Bruland, and Michael D. Hansell
Journal: Science
Year: 2003
Abstract:
Iron is an essential metal for marine phytoplankton, yet its availability in the ocean is often limited. Most iron in the ocean is bound to particles, which are either too large or too insoluble to be used by phytoplankton. However, some marine microbes are able to recycle iron from these particles. In this study, the authors investigated how marine microbes recycle iron from the debris of dead algae. They found that bacteria were able to break down the algae particles and release iron into the water column. The iron was then taken up by phytoplankton, which used it to grow and reproduce. This study provides new insights into the role of marine microbes in recycling iron in the ocean.
Methods:
The authors conducted a series of experiments in the laboratory to investigate how marine microbes recycle iron from the debris of dead algae. They collected samples of algae debris from the ocean and incubated them with different types of bacteria. They then measured the amount of iron that was released into the water column and the amount of iron that was taken up by phytoplankton.
Results:
The authors found that bacteria were able to break down the algae particles and release iron into the water column. The amount of iron that was released depended on the type of bacteria and the amount of time that the algae particles were incubated with the bacteria. The iron that was released into the water column was then taken up by phytoplankton, which used it to grow and reproduce.
Conclusions:
This study provides new insights into the role of marine microbes in recycling iron in the ocean. The authors found that bacteria are able to break down the debris of dead algae and release iron into the water column. This iron is then taken up by phytoplankton, which use it to grow and reproduce. This study highlights the importance of marine microbes in the cycling of iron in the ocean.
