Ocean warming may supercharge a tiny microbe that controls marine nutrients

As deep-sea waters warm, scientists expected trouble for the microbes that help keep ocean chemistry in balance. Instead, researchers found that Nitrosopumilus maritimus can adapt to warmer, iron-limited conditions by using iron more efficiently. Because these microbes control key nitrogen reactions that support marine life, their adaptability could help sustain ocean productivity. In a warming world, they may play an even bigger role in shaping marine nutrient cycles. The research findings appear in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Microbes That Power Ocean Nutrient Cycles Nitrosopumilus maritimus and closely related microbes make up about 30% of marine microbial plankton. Many scientists consi... [2875 chars]