Spontaneous assembly of marine dissolved organic matter into polymer gels
Article Abstract:
There is a large pool of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in the world's oceans, which is defined as a fraction of organic matter passing through a filter with a given pore size. The fraction is less biodegradable than particulate organic matter (POM), and processes to transform DOM into POM are therefore important to understanding organic material cycles in the ocean. Experiment observations showing that marine polymer gels are able to assemble from free DOM polymers, are presented. Polymer gel theory helps to understand their formation mechanism, physical characteristics and mineralization.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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Marine viruses and their biogeochemical and ecological effects
Article Abstract:
It has become increasingly apparent that microbial processes in the sea are important. Viruses infecting specific marine organisms have been intensively studied. The accumulated evidence relating to the nature of marine viruses and their ecological and biogeochemical effects is assessed, with the main conclusion that they have significant influence on marine bacterial and phytoplankton communities.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1999
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Salinity history of the Earth's early ocean
Article Abstract:
Oceans are commonly thought to be getting saltier with time. However it is argued that the salinity of the early ocean was 1.5-two times the modern value, and its decline did not start until late in the Earth's history. In the model, the earliest life was either salt tolerant, or restricted to more dilute waters such as estuaries, or non-marin environments.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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