Phytoplankton are vital to ocean ecosystems, driving energy flow and regulating the global carbon cycle. A recent study led by Dr. Crispin M. Muscinda at Dalhousie University highlights a concerning decline in phytoplankton biomass, with a 2% decrease per year in some North Atlantic regions.
The study focuses on two major groups: diatoms, which contribute approximately 40% of the world’s oceanic production, and dinoflagellates, known for their diversity and potential toxicity. Both influence nutrient cycling and marine food networks, and their populations are impacted by changing temperatures and nutrient availability.
Using data from 1960 to 2017, researchers found regional variations in phytoplankton populations. Diatoms decreased in subpolar regions but increased in certain shelf areas, while dinoflagellate counts fluctuated. Ongoing climate changes pose risks to these communities, potentially affecting fish stocks and broader marine health.
The study emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring of marine ecosystems to understand these complex changes. Improved collaboration and technology can help marine science adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change on phytoplankton dynamics, which are crucial for the health of global fisheries and marine life.
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