•1 min read•from Oceanography News -- ScienceDaily
The oxygen you breathe depends on a tiny ocean ingredient
Our take
Microscopic ocean algae, or phytoplankton, are essential for producing a significant portion of the Earth's oxygen. However, their ability to thrive hinges on the availability of iron. Recent field research indicates that when iron is limited, phytoplankton waste energy, leading to diminished photosynthesis and overall productivity. Climate-driven changes threaten to reduce iron delivery to our oceans, potentially destabilizing marine food chains.
Microscopic ocean algae produce a huge share of Earth’s oxygen—but they need iron to do it. New field research shows that when iron is scarce, phytoplankton waste energy and photosynthesis falters. Climate-driven changes may reduce iron delivery to the oceans, weakening the base of marine food chains. Over time, this could mean fewer krill and fewer whales, seals, and penguins.
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