Are Ocean Plankton Impacting Earth's Climate?

Maria Maldonado of the University of British Columbia argues that understanding the chemistry of phytoplankton is key to controlling Earth's climate

Are Ocean Plankton The Key Ingredient That Decides The Future Of Earth's Climate? -- Daily Mail

* Phytoplankton provide half planet's oxygen
* Can soak up 45 billion tons of carbon dioxide per year
* CO2 'buried' in deep ocean for centuries
Tiny ocean 'phytoplankton' have a huge impact on Earth's climate - and understanding them could be key to the planet's future health.

Canadian scientist Maria Maldonado is researching why the phytoplankton thrive in some areas, and how they survive in areas with hostile conditions.

The tiny single-celled algae soak up 45 billion tons of carbon dioxide every year - transferring 16 billion tons to the deep ocean. They provide half the planet's oxygen supply.

Understanding them is vital to understanding - and regulating - our planet's health, Maldonado says.

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