Oceanography is the scientific study of the ocean, encompassing a diverse range of topics and disciplines. It seeks to understand the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of the ocean and its interactions with the atmosphere and the Earth's landmasses. Oceanography can be broadly divided into several sub-disciplines: 1. **Physical Oceanography**: This subfield focuses on the physical properties of the ocean, including currents, waves, tides, and the ocean's role in climate regulation.
Biological oceanography is a branch of oceanography that focuses on the study of marine organisms and their interactions with the ocean environment. It examines the biological aspects of the ocean, including the distribution, abundance, diversity, and behavior of marine life, as well as the ecological processes that govern these factors.
Algal blooms are rapid increases in the population of algae in aquatic environments, often characterized by the water becoming discolored, turning green, blue, red, or brown, depending on the type of algae involved.
Diatoms are a type of single-celled algae, classified within the group known as phytoplankton. They are particularly significant in aquatic ecosystems, playing a vital role in the food web and contributing to primary production. Diatoms have unique silica-based cell walls known as frustules, which have a distinctive geometric structure. These organisms are found in both marine and freshwater environments and are capable of photosynthesis, using sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into energy.
Marine ecoregions are distinct geographic areas of the ocean that exhibit similar ecological characteristics, including types of marine habitats, species composition, and environmental conditions. These regions are defined based on biological, physical, and chemical factors, and they help in understanding marine biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and conservation needs. Marine ecoregions can encompass a wide range of environments, including coastal areas, continental shelves, deep-sea regions, and oceanic waters.
Red tide refers to a harmful algal bloom (HAB) characterized by the proliferation of certain types of microalgae, particularly dinoflagellates, in coastal waters. These blooms can produce toxins that are harmful to marine life, humans, and the environment. The term "red tide" comes from the reddish or brownish color that the water can take on when these algae are present in high concentrations, although the water may not always appear red.
The 2021 North-East England shellfish die-off refers to a significant event that occurred along the northeastern coastline of England, where a large number of shellfish, particularly the species found in the intertidal zones and coastal waters, experienced mass mortality. This incident was reported in the summer of 2021 and raised concerns among local fishermen, environmentalists, and researchers.
An algal bloom is a rapid increase in the population of algae in water bodies, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers. These blooms can occur in both freshwater and marine environments and are often characterized by a noticeable change in the color of the water, which can take on shades of green, blue, red, or brown, depending on the type of algae involved.
Artificial seawater is a synthetic mixture designed to mimic the chemical composition and properties of natural seawater. It is typically created by dissolving various salts in purified water, enabling researchers, aquarists, and marine scientists to replicate ocean conditions in controlled environments. The primary components of artificial seawater generally include: 1. **Sodium Chloride (NaCl)**: The major component, providing salinity.
The Atlantic Meridional Transect (AMT) is a scientific research initiative aimed at studying the biological, chemical, and physical processes in the Atlantic Ocean. It involves a series of oceanographic expeditions that traverse the Atlantic Ocean from the northern to the southern hemisphere, providing essential data on marine ecosystems, climate variability, and ocean health.
Bacterioplankton refers to the community of bacteria that exist in the water column of aquatic ecosystems, including oceans, lakes, and rivers. These microorganisms are an essential component of the planktonic ecosystem and play critical roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and the overall functioning of aquatic food webs. Bacterioplankton are typically small, ranging from a few micrometers to tens of micrometers in size, and they can be free-living or form aggregates.
Bacterioplankton counting methods refer to various techniques used to estimate the abundance and biomass of bacterioplankton—microscopic bacteria that drift in aquatic environments, both freshwater and marine. Bacterioplankton play critical roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and as a food source for higher trophic levels in aquatic ecosystems. Accurate counting and characterization of these microorganisms are crucial for understanding their ecological roles.
The biological pump refers to a key process in the ocean's carbon cycle that helps regulate atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and thus plays a critical role in mitigating climate change. It involves the transfer of carbon from the surface ocean to the deep ocean through biological processes. Here's how it works: 1. **Primary Production**: Phytoplankton, microscopic plants in the ocean, utilize sunlight and nutrients to photosynthesize, converting carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere into organic matter.
Blue carbon refers to the carbon captured and stored by coastal and marine ecosystems, particularly in salt marshes, mangroves, and seagrasses. These ecosystems play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in biomass and sediment. Key aspects of blue carbon include: 1. **Carbon Sequestration**: Coastal ecosystems are highly efficient at capturing carbon.
Brown algae, belonging to the phylum Phaeophyta, are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms primarily found in marine environments, particularly in colder waters. They are characterized by their brown or olive-green color, which is due to the presence of the pigment fucoxanthin, along with chlorophyll a and c. Brown algae vary in size, ranging from small filaments to large kelps that can grow to several meters in length.
The Center for Microbial Oceanography: Research and Education (C-MORE) is a research and educational initiative that focuses on the study of microbial life in the ocean and its impact on marine ecosystems and global biogeochemical cycles. Established with the aim of advancing our understanding of the role that microbes play in oceanic processes, C-MORE conducts interdisciplinary research that combines microbiology, oceanography, and environmental science.
The continental shelf pump is a physical oceanographic mechanism that describes how water is transported from the continental shelf to the open ocean. This process primarily occurs due to the interplay of wind forces, water density differences, and the topography of the seabed. Here’s how it works: 1. **Wind Stress**: Winds blowing across the surface of the ocean can create surface currents.
The Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) is a vital tool used in marine biology and oceanography to study plankton populations in the ocean. Originally developed in the 1930s by the Sir Alister Hardy Foundation for Ocean Science (SAHFOS) in the UK, the CPR is designed to collect plankton samples while deployed on ships that traverse the oceans. The CPR consists of a large, box-like instrument that flows through the water as it is towed behind a ship.
Critical depth is a concept in fluid mechanics, particularly in the study of open channel flow. It represents the depth of flow at which the specific energy of the system is at a minimum for a given specific discharge (flow rate per unit width). In simpler terms, for a given amount of water flowing through a channel, critical depth is the depth at which the flow transitions between subcritical and supercritical states.
Defying Ocean's End is typically associated with project initiatives and organizations focused on marine conservation, sustainability, and the protection of ocean ecosystems. One prominent effort by this name aims to address the critical issues facing oceans, such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change. It often involves collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and local communities to promote sustainable practices and restore marine environments.
Diel vertical migration (DVM) is a behavioral phenomenon observed in many aquatic organisms, particularly zooplankton and some fish, where these organisms migrate vertically in the water column on a daily (diel) cycle. Typically, this behavior involves organisms moving to deeper waters during the day to avoid predation and rising to shallower depths at night to feed. During the daylight hours, many of these species go deeper, where light levels are lower and predators are less active.
Discovery Investigations is typically associated with a range of services that pertain to private investigation, research, and intelligence gathering. However, since "Discovery Investigations" can refer to different entities or services depending on the context, it's important to clarify what specific aspect you are referring to.
E. Virginia Armbrust is a notable figure in the field of marine science, particularly known for her work in biological oceanography. She has made significant contributions to understanding phytoplankton dynamics and the role of these organisms in ocean ecosystems. Armbrust has been involved in various research initiatives and has published extensively on topics related to ocean health, climate change, and the impact of human activities on marine environments.
In oceanography, the F-ratio is a parameter that compares the rate of new production (the production of organic material from phytoplankton fueled by nutrients from deep waters) to the rate of regenerated production (the production of organic material from phytoplankton that is supported by the recycling of nutrients in the surface layer).
Fish reproduction refers to the biological processes through which fish produce offspring. There are various methods by which fish reproduce, and these methods can vary significantly among different species. The main modes of fish reproduction include: 1. **Oviparous Reproduction**: Most fish are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. The eggs are usually fertilized outside the female's body. Fish may spawn in various environments, such as freshwater, saltwater, or on specific substrates like rocks or plants.
Gelatinous zooplankton is a term used to describe a diverse group of marine and freshwater organisms that have a gelatinous, often translucent body structure. These organisms are primarily composed of water, which gives them their characteristic jelly-like consistency. Some common examples of gelatinous zooplankton include jellyfish, salps, and certain types of ctenophores (comb jellies).
A harmful algal bloom (HAB) is a rapid increase in the population of certain types of algae in aquatic environments, which can have detrimental effects on aquatic life, human health, and the environment. These blooms are often caused by specific strains of microscopic algae (phytoplankton), which can produce toxins harmful to marine organisms, birds, and mammals, as well as humans.
Heterotrophic picoplankton refers to a group of microscopic organisms that are typically less than 2 micrometers in size and are primarily non-photosynthetic. These organisms play a crucial role in the aquatic ecosystem by feeding on organic matter, including bacteria and dissolved organic carbon. Heterotrophic picoplankton includes a variety of microorganisms such as bacteria and archaea that are involved in nutrient cycling and energy flow within marine and freshwater ecosystems.
Ichthyoplankton refers to the early life stages of fish that are found in the plankton community of marine and freshwater ecosystems. This group primarily includes fish eggs and larval fish, which drift in the water column and are crucial components of aquatic food webs. Ichthyoplankton plays an important role in the ecology of aquatic systems as they serve as prey for a variety of larger organisms, including other fish, invertebrates, and birds.
James Johnstone is a biologist known for his contributions to the field of evolutionary biology and ecology. His research often focuses on the evolution of social behaviors and mating strategies in animal populations. He has published various studies that explore the mechanisms behind natural selection and the ecological factors that influence species interactions. In addition to his research, Johnstone may also be involved in teaching and mentoring students in biological sciences.
As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, "Jelly-falls" does not refer to a widely recognized concept, product, or phenomenon. It might be a term used in specific contexts, such as a brand name, a creative concept, or a children's activity involving jelly or gelatin.
The *Journal of Applied Ichthyology* is a peer-reviewed scientific journal that focuses on research related to fish biology and its application to various fields, including fisheries science, aquaculture, conservation, and environmental management. The journal publishes original research articles, reviews, and short communications that provide insights into the biology and ecology of fish species, as well as studies that address practical issues related to fishery management and conservation efforts.
Eukaryotic picoplankton consists of small, often single-celled eukaryotic organisms that are typically less than 2 micrometers in size. These organisms play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, contributing to primary production and serving as a food source for larger planktonic organisms.
The concept of marine ecoregions refers to distinct areas of the ocean that are characterized by unique ecological features, such as specific species, habitats, and environmental conditions. These ecoregions are essential for conservation and management efforts, as they help in understanding the biodiversity and ecological processes occurring in marine environments.
A Manta trawl is a type of net used in marine biology and oceanography for sampling plankton and other small organisms in the water column. It is designed to be towed through the water and typically consists of a large, flat body that resembles a manta ray, hence the name. The trawl features a wide mouth that allows it to capture organisms as it moves through the water, and it often has a mesh netting that retains the organisms while allowing water to flow through.
Marine botany is the study of marine plants and algae, including their classification, physiology, ecology, and distribution in marine environments. This field encompasses a wide range of organisms, including seaweeds (macroalgae), seagrasses, and phytoplankton (microalgae). Key areas of focus in marine botany include: 1. **Taxonomy and Classification**: Identifying and categorizing marine plant species based on their characteristics and genetic relationships.
Marine coastal ecosystems are dynamic environments where the ocean meets the land. These ecosystems are characterized by a variety of habitats, including: 1. **Estuaries**: Areas where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the sea. Estuaries serve as nurseries for many marine species and are rich in nutrients.
Marine ecoregions are distinct geographic areas of the ocean that have relatively homogenous ecological characteristics, including specific types of marine life, habitats, and environmental conditions. These ecoregions are often defined by factors such as water temperature, salinity, depth, and the physical features of the seabed, as well as biotic components like species composition and community structure.
A marine ecosystem is a complex network of living organisms and their physical environment found in the ocean and other saltwater bodies. It includes various habitats such as coral reefs, mangroves, estuaries, open oceans, and coastal areas. Marine ecosystems are characterized by their diverse range of organisms, including fish, marine mammals, invertebrates, algae, and other microorganisms.
Marine life refers to the diverse array of organisms that inhabit the world's oceans, seas, and other bodies of saltwater. This includes a wide variety of species across different taxonomic groups, ranging from microscopic plankton to the largest animals on Earth, such as blue whales. Marine life can be categorized into several groups, including: 1. **Plankton**: These are small, often microscopic organisms that drift with the ocean currents.
Marine microorganisms are tiny living organisms found in ocean and sea environments. They are typically microscopic in size and include a wide variety of life forms, such as bacteria, archaea, viruses, phytoplankton, and zooplankton. These microorganisms play crucial roles in marine ecosystems and are vital for the health of our planet. Here are some key aspects of marine microorganisms: 1. **Bacteria and Archaea**: These are prokaryotic microorganisms that thrive in diverse marine environments.
Marine mucilage is a gelatinous substance produced by various marine organisms, particularly phytoplankton, bacteria, and certain macroalgae. It consists primarily of organic compounds, including polysaccharides and proteins, and can accumulate in marine environments under specific conditions.
Marine primary production refers to the process by which marine organisms, primarily phytoplankton, synthesize organic compounds from carbon dioxide using sunlight in a process called photosynthesis. This process is crucial for the marine ecosystem as it forms the base of the food web, supporting a wide range of marine life, from tiny zooplankton to large marine mammals.
Marine prokaryotes are unicellular organisms that belong to the domains Bacteria and Archaea and are found in marine environments such as oceans, seas, and other saltwater bodies. Prokaryotes are characterized by their simple cellular structure, lacking a membrane-bound nucleus and other organelles that are found in eukaryotic cells. Marine prokaryotes play crucial roles in various ecological processes in the ocean.
Marine protists are a diverse group of eukaryotic microorganisms that inhabit marine environments. They are primarily single-celled organisms, although some can form multicellular structures. Marine protists play crucial roles in aquatic ecosystems, functioning as key components of the food web and contributing to nutrient cycling.
Marine vertebrates are animals that possess a backbone (vertebral column) and live primarily in ocean or sea environments. This group includes a diverse range of species that are adapted to marine habitats. The main classes of marine vertebrates are: 1. **Fish**: This group includes both bony fish (Osteichthyes) and cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes), such as sharks and rays. Fish are the most diverse and abundant group of marine vertebrates.
Marine viruses are viruses that infect marine organisms, including bacteria, archaea, phytoplankton, zooplankton, and even larger marine animals like fish and whales. They play a crucial role in marine ecosystems and the oceanic food web. Here are some key points about marine viruses: 1. **Abundance**: Marine viruses are extremely abundant in oceanic environments. Estimates suggest there are about 10 million viruses per milliliter of seawater.
Microalgae are microscopic, photosynthetic organisms primarily found in aquatic environments, including both freshwater and marine ecosystems. They can be single-celled or multicellular and are essential components of the food web, serving as a primary producer by converting sunlight into energy through the process of photosynthesis.
Microbiology of oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) refers to the study of microbial communities and their activities in areas of the ocean where oxygen levels are significantly reduced compared to surrounding waters. These zones can occur at various depths in the ocean, typically located between 200 and 1,000 meters, and are characterized by low concentrations of dissolved oxygen (often less than 0.5 mL/L or 22 μM).
The Milky Seas effect is a rare and fascinating phenomenon characterized by the luminous glow of large ocean areas at night, creating a striking, milky appearance on the water's surface. This bioluminescence is often caused by the activity of certain types of marine microorganisms, particularly a species of bioluminescent bacteria known as *Vibrio*.
Minimum depth of occurrence (MDO) typically refers to the shallowest depth at which a particular species or resource is found in a given environment, such as aquatic ecosystems, geological formations, or geographical areas. In ecology and environmental science, understanding the minimum depth of occurrence can provide insights into species distribution, habitat preferences, and ecological relationships.
"Mycoplankton" isn't a widely recognized term in scientific literature or biology, and it may be a confusion or blend of words. However, it seems to refer to two separate components: "myco-" typically refers to fungi, while "plankton" refers to microscopic organisms floating in water.
Net Ecosystem Production (NEP) is a key concept in ecology that refers to the balance between the amount of organic matter produced by photosynthetic organisms (like plants and phytoplankton) and the amount of organic matter consumed by respiration processes within an ecosystem. It is essentially a measure of the net carbon dioxide (CO2) uptake by an ecosystem.
Ocean acidification refers to the process by which the pH levels of seawater decrease due to the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. In the context of the Arctic Ocean, this phenomenon is particularly concerning due to several factors that make the region vulnerable to changes in water chemistry.
Pennales is a term that refers to a group of diatoms, a class of microalgae known for their siliceous cell walls. Diatoms are unicellular organisms that play a significant role in aquatic ecosystems, serving as primary producers and forming the base of the food web. The term "Pennales" is often used to categorize the pennate diatoms, which are primarily characterized by their elongated shape and bilateral symmetry.
Photosynthetic picoplankton refers to a group of very small, photosynthetic microorganisms, typically less than 2 micrometers in diameter. These organisms are primarily composed of cyanobacteria and certain eukaryotic phytoplankton, such as green algae and dinoflagellates. Due to their size, photosynthetic picoplankton play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in marine environments.
Phytoplankton are microscopic, photosynthetic organisms that live in aquatic environments, primarily in the ocean, but also in freshwater bodies. They are a critical component of the aquatic food web and play a significant role in the Earth’s ecosystem. Here are some key characteristics and facts about phytoplankton: 1. **Photosynthesis**: Phytoplankton use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic matter through photosynthesis, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.
Picoeukaryotes are a group of small eukaryotic organisms, typically defined as organisms that range in size from about 0.2 to 2 micrometers in diameter. This size classification places them in the pico- size range, similar to pico-prokaryotes (such as bacteria). Picoeukaryotes are primarily unicellular and are found in various aquatic environments, including both marine and freshwater ecosystems.
Picoplankton refers to a size class of plankton that includes tiny, microscopic organisms typically ranging from 0.2 to 2 micrometers in size. This group primarily consists of photosynthetic and heterotrophic microorganisms, including certain types of bacteria, cyanobacteria, and small phytoplankton. Picoplankton plays a crucial role in marine and freshwater ecosystems as they are primary producers and contribute significantly to the aquatic food web.
Plankton refers to a diverse group of tiny organisms that drift in ocean currents and other bodies of water. They are a vital part of the aquatic ecosystem and play a crucial role in the food web. Plankton is typically categorized into two main groups: 1. **Phytoplankton**: These are microscopic plant-like organisms, primarily algae, that carry out photosynthesis. They produce oxygen and serve as the primary producers in many aquatic ecosystems, forming the base of the food chain.
In ecology, productivity refers to the rate at which energy or biomass is produced in an ecosystem. It is a key concept that helps to understand the efficiency of energy flow and the capacity of ecosystems to support life. There are two main types of productivity: 1. **Primary Productivity**: This is the rate at which autotrophs (primarily plants, algae, and some bacteria) convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
Pseudoplankton refers to small organisms or particles that are similar to plankton but do not fit the traditional definition of true plankton. The term is often used to describe organisms or materials that may drift in water but do not rely on water currents for their distribution in the same way that true plankton do.
The Red Sea brine pools are unique marine environments characterized by high salinity levels, often significantly higher than that of typical seawater. These brine pools are found at the bottom of the Red Sea, and they offer an extreme habitat that supports specialized microbiological communities. The study of microbiology in these brine pools focuses on the diverse microorganisms that thrive in such extreme conditions, including bacteria, archaea, and various microbial eukaryotes.
SUPER HI-CAT (System for Ultra-High-Temperature Icing Conditions and Atmospheric Turbulence) is a research initiative aimed at studying and understanding the effects of icing and turbulence on aircraft and other vehicles. The project focuses on extreme climatic conditions that can pose safety risks to aviation, particularly during takeoff and landing phases.
Seston refers to the total mass of suspended particulate matter in a given volume of water. It includes a variety of organic and inorganic particles, such as phytoplankton (microscopic plants), zooplankton (microscopic animals), detritus (decomposed organic material), and sediment. Seston is an important factor in aquatic ecosystems as it plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling, light penetration, and the food web dynamics.
In oceanography, "thin layers" refer to narrow vertical sections of water in the ocean that exhibit distinct differences in physical or chemical properties compared to the surrounding water. These layers can be only a few centimeters thick and can be found at various depths in the ocean. They are characterized by phenomena such as changes in temperature, salinity, nutrients, or biological activity.
Whale feces, often referred to as whale dung, is the excrement produced by whales. It plays an important role in marine ecosystems, primarily due to its contribution to nutrient cycling. Whale feces is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus and can stimulate the growth of phytoplankton, which forms the basis of the marine food web.
Zooplankton are a diverse group of small, often microscopic, animals that drift in ocean and freshwater environments. They are an essential component of aquatic ecosystems and serve as a critical link in the food web, primarily by feeding on phytoplankton (the microscopic plant-like organisms) and, in turn, serving as prey for larger animals, such as fish and whales.
Chemical oceanography is a branch of oceanography that focuses on the chemical composition and processes of seawater and how these interact with marine organisms, the atmosphere, and geological processes. It involves the study of a wide range of chemical substances found in the ocean, including: 1. **Salinity and Major Ions**: The concentrations of major ions (such as sodium, chloride, sulfate, magnesium, and calcium) that determine the salinity of seawater.
Anoxic events refer to periods in which specific waters, regions, or environments become depleted of oxygen, leading to severe conditions for aquatic life and other organisms that rely on oxygen for survival. "Anoxic" specifically means lacking oxygen (from the Greek "an-" meaning "without" and "oxia" meaning "oxygen").
Alkalinity is a measure of the capacity of water to resist changes in pH, which reflects its ability to neutralize acids. It represents the presence of alkaline substances in water, primarily bicarbonates (HCO3-), carbonates (CO32-), and hydroxides (OH-). High alkalinity indicates a greater capacity of the water to buffer against pH changes, which is important for maintaining ecosystem health, particularly in freshwater systems and aquaculture.
Anoxic waters refer to bodies of water that are depleted of dissolved oxygen, which is essential for the survival of most aquatic life. When water becomes anoxic, it typically means that the oxygen concentration has dropped to levels below 0.5 milligrams per liter (mg/L). This can occur in various environments, such as deep ocean waters, sediment layers, and in certain freshwater bodies.
Biogeochemistry is an interdisciplinary field that explores the interactions between biological, geological, and chemical processes in natural environments. It focuses on how living organisms (such as plants, animals, and microorganisms) influence and are influenced by the chemical and physical properties of the earth's systems, including soil, water, and air.
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is a measure of the amount of organic compounds in water or wastewater that can be oxidized by a strong chemical oxidant. It is an important parameter used to evaluate water quality, particularly in the context of wastewater and effluent treatment. COD is expressed in units of milligrams of oxygen consumed per liter of sample (mg O₂/L).
Colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) refers to a subset of dissolved organic matter in water that is colored, typically due to the presence of various organic compounds, including humic and fulvic acids. CDOM is characterized by its ability to absorb and scatter light, giving it a distinctive color, which can vary from yellow to brown, depending on its concentration and the specific composition of the organic matter.
Cyclic salts are a type of chemical compound that contain a cyclic structure and possess ionic properties. These compounds can form when specific anions and cations associate in a cyclic arrangement, often leading to unique properties in comparison to non-cyclic salts. For example, in organic chemistry, cyclic salts can refer to compounds that have a cyclic cation or anion, such as certain types of ammonium salts derived from cyclic amines or cyclic ethers.
In ecology, a "dead zone" refers to an area in a body of water where the oxygen levels are so low that most marine life cannot survive. These areas are also known as hypoxic zones, and they can occur in oceans, estuaries, and other bodies of water. Dead zones often result from nutrient pollution, particularly from agricultural runoff containing nitrogen and phosphorus. When these nutrients enter the water, they can lead to excessive growth of algae, a process known as algal bloom.
Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) refers to the total concentration of inorganic carbon species present in water. It primarily includes carbon dioxide (CO2), carbonic acid (H2CO3), bicarbonate (HCO3-), and carbonate (CO3^2-). DIC is a crucial component of the carbon cycle and plays a significant role in regulating the acidity (pH) of natural waters, including oceans and freshwater systems.
Elizabeth Kujawinski is a prominent oceanographer known for her research in marine chemistry and environmental science. She focuses on understanding the biogeochemical processes in ocean systems and how they relate to climate change and ecosystem health. Her work often involves studying organic matter in the ocean and its implications for carbon cycling and marine life.
Free Ocean CO2 Enrichment (FOCE) refers to experimental setups designed to understand the effects of increased carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on marine environments, particularly on ecosystems such as coral reefs and other marine organisms. These experiments aim to simulate future ocean conditions anticipated due to climate change, particularly the process of ocean acidification, which occurs when excess CO2 is absorbed by the ocean, leading to lower pH levels.
GEOTRACES is an international research program aimed at understanding the trace elements and isotopes in the ocean and their roles in marine biogeochemistry. Launched in 2004, the program focuses on the distribution and cycling of trace elements such as metals and nutrients, which are essential for marine organisms and ecological processes but are often present in very low concentrations.
The Great Calcite Belt refers to a significant geological feature characterized by the presence of extensive deposits of calcite, a mineral composed primarily of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This belt is typically associated with regions where limestone and other sedimentary rocks are prevalent. One prominent example of a region often described in relation to the Great Calcite Belt is the geological formations found in the United States, particularly in areas like the Great Lakes region and parts of the Midwest.
Hydrogen isotope biogeochemistry is the study of the distribution and cycling of hydrogen isotopes (primarily protium, ^1H, and deuterium, ^2H) within biological and geological systems. This field examines how hydrogen isotopes are incorporated into and exchanged between various components of the environment, including water, organic matter, and gases, and how these processes relate to biological activity, climate, and geological processes.
Hypoxia, in an environmental context, refers to a condition in which there is a deficiency of oxygen in a particular area, typically in aquatic environments such as oceans, lakes, or rivers. This can lead to significant ecological impacts, affecting the survival of fish and other aquatic organisms that rely on dissolved oxygen for respiration.
Hypoxia in fish refers to a condition where there is a deficiency of oxygen in the water, which can lead to stress, illness, or death in aquatic organisms. Normal oxygen levels in freshwater and saltwater environments typically range from about 5 to 14 mg/L, depending on various factors like temperature and salinity. When the oxygen levels drop below this range, it can cause hypoxic conditions.
A lipid pump generally refers to mechanisms or systems in biological contexts that transport lipids across membranes or within cells. While the term can be used in various scientific fields, it is notably associated with the transport of lipids and fatty acids in cellular processes. In some contexts, lipid pumps can involve: 1. **Molecular Machines:** Proteins that function to actively transport lipids against a concentration gradient, using energy derived from ATP hydrolysis or other energy sources.
Marine Chemistry is a peer-reviewed scientific journal that focuses on the field of marine chemistry, encompassing the chemical composition, processes, and interactions occurring in marine environments. It publishes original research articles, reviews, and shorter communications related to various aspects of marine chemistry, including but not limited to: - The study of seawater chemistry and its components, such as nutrients, trace metals, and organic compounds. - Chemical processes related to biological, geological, and physical interactions in marine ecosystems.
Marine chemistry is the study of the chemical composition and properties of ocean waters, marine sediments, and the chemical processes that occur in marine environments. It encompasses a range of topics, including: 1. **Composition of Seawater**: Analyzing the salts, nutrients (like nitrates and phosphates), gases (such as oxygen and carbon dioxide), and other dissolved substances present in seawater.
A nutrient is a substance that provides the essential elements necessary for the growth, development, and maintenance of an organism. Nutrients can be classified into several categories, primarily: 1. **Macronutrients**: These are needed in larger quantities and provide the energy necessary for various bodily functions. They include: - **Carbohydrates**: The body's primary energy source. - **Proteins**: Essential for building and repairing tissues.
The oceanic carbon cycle refers to the movement and transformation of carbon in and out of the ocean, playing a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and helping regulate Earth's climate. Here's an overview of its components and processes: 1. **Carbon Dioxide Absorption**: Oceans absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This process occurs at the ocean's surface, where gas exchange takes place due to differences in concentration.
An "oligosaprobe" is a term often used in microbiology and ecology to describe a specific type of organism that requires very low concentrations of organic matter to thrive. Oligosaprobic organisms typically inhabit environments with low levels of pollution and organic enrichment, such as clean streams and lakes. These organisms are contrasted with "eutrophic" organisms, which are adapted to environments rich in nutrients and organic material.
The oxygen cycle is a biogeochemical cycle that describes the movement of oxygen within its three main reservoirs: the atmosphere, the biosphere (living organisms), and the lithosphere (earth's crust and deep earth). It is crucial for maintaining life on Earth, as oxygen is essential for respiration in many organisms and plays a critical role in various ecological processes.
Particulate inorganic carbon (PIC) refers to the fraction of inorganic carbon that is present in solid particulate form in aquatic environments. This component mainly consists of carbonates, such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which are commonly produced by biological processes (e.g., from marine organisms like mollusks and corals) and geological processes (e.g., sedimentation and weathering of rocks).
Particulate organic matter (POM) refers to organic particles that are suspended in water, soil, or air, and are made up of various forms of organic material, including decomposing plant and animal matter, microorganisms, and other organic compounds. POM is an important component of the ecosystem as it plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling, soil structure, aquatic ecosystems, and carbon storage.
Sea salt is a type of salt that is produced by evaporating seawater. It is primarily composed of sodium chloride, like table salt, but may also contain trace minerals and elements that can impart different flavors and colors, depending on the source of the seawater and the processing methods used. Sea salt can come in various textures and grain sizes, from fine to coarse, and is often used in cooking and as a finishing salt.
Sea salt aerosol refers to tiny particles or droplets that originate from the ocean and are composed primarily of salt, mainly sodium chloride (NaCl), along with a mix of other compounds such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium salts. These aerosols are created through various processes, primarily the breaking of ocean waves which generates bubbles that burst at the surface, releasing salt particles into the atmosphere. Sea salt aerosols play a significant role in the Earth's climate and atmospheric chemistry.
Sel gris, which translates to "gray salt" in French, is a type of sea salt that is harvested from salt marshes, particularly in the region of Guérande in France. It is known for its distinctive gray color, which comes from the clay found in the salt flats where the salt is collected. This salt is unrefined and retains a certain amount of moisture and minerals, giving it a unique flavor and texture compared to more processed salts.
The solubility pump is a key mechanism in the ocean's biological carbon pump, which plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle and the regulation of Earth's climate. It refers to the process by which dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) enters the ocean and is then transported to deeper waters due to physical and biological processes.
Total boron typically refers to the total concentration of boron present in a sample, which can include various forms such as boric acid, borate, and other boron compounds. In environmental science, chemistry, and geological studies, measuring total boron is important for understanding its presence and effects in ecosystems, water sources, and soil.
Total inorganic carbon (TIC) refers to the sum of all inorganic carbon species present in a given sample. It typically includes: 1. **Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)**: This is a gas dissolved in water that is crucial for aquatic ecosystems and plays a significant role in the carbon cycle.
The Urey–Bigeleisen–Mayer equation is a formula used in physical chemistry and isotopic chemistry to relate the equilibrium constants of chemical reactions involving isotopes to the differences in their vibrational energies. It provides a way to understand and quantify the isotopic effects that occur in chemical reactions, particularly the fractionation of isotopes. This equation is particularly useful in studying the behavior of molecules containing different isotopes of elements, such as hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen.
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