Photosynthesis by oceanic plankton is a major source of atmospheric oxygen.
The Role of Oceanic Plankton
Scientists estimate that roughly half of the Earth's oxygen production comes from the ocean. This production is primarily driven by oceanic plankton, which includes drifting plants, algae, and photosynthesizing bacteria. One significant example is Prochlorococcus, the smallest photosynthetic organism known. These organisms, through photosynthesis, convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into energy, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. This process is vital for maintaining the oxygen levels in the atmosphere and the oceans.
[Reference: Scientists estimate that roughly half of the oxygen production on Earth comes from the ocean. The majority of this production is from oceanic plankton — drifting plants, algae, and some bacteria that can photosynthesize. One particular species, Prochlorococcus, is the smallest photosynthetic organism on Earth.16-Jun-2024]
Other Important Contributors
While oceanic plankton are a significant source, it's crucial to remember that other photosynthetic organisms also contribute to atmospheric oxygen levels. This includes:
- Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae): These microbes are ancient and played a crucial role in the initial oxygenation of Earth's atmosphere. They continue to be a significant source today. [Reference: The answer is tiny organisms known as cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae. These microbes conduct photosynthesis: using sunshine, water and...]
- Photosynthetic phytoplankton: These microscopic marine organisms, like algae, also contribute significantly to oxygen production in the oceans. [Reference: As described above, cyanobacteria and other photosynthetic phytoplankton continue to be major sources of oxygen. A recently described novel...]
Oxygen (O2) production through photosynthesis is the dominant global process replenishing atmospheric and oceanic oxygen, crucial for sustaining aerobic life. [Reference: Oxygen (O2) production by photosynthesis is by far the dominant global process that replenishes atmospheric and oceanic oxygen essential to sustain all aerobic...]
