Climate change could make Earth’s oldest microorganisms dominant in oceans, research finds

New research suggests that climate change could cause prokaryotes, the oldest and smallest microorganisms on Earth, to become more dominant in the oceans. These tiny organisms, which include bacteria and archaea, have existed for billions of years and are essential for maintaining marine ecosystems. They play a key role in nutrient cycling and support the food web for various marine species. However, their increased presence as a result of warming oceans could disrupt the balance of marine environments and have implications for global food supplies.

Prokaryotes and their role

Prokaryotes are incredibly abundant in marine environments, making up about 30 percent of ocean life. research mentioned. Despite their small size, they have a significant impact on oceanic nutrient cycling and food chains. They grow rapidly and produce a substantial amount of carbon – about 20 billion tons per year, which is double the carbon emissions from humans. Phytoplankton, another crucial marine microorganism, helps counteract this by absorbing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, contributing to the global carbon cycle.

Consequences of ocean warming

Computer models predict that as ocean temperatures rise, prokaryotes will become increasingly dominant compared to larger marine organisms such as fish and plankton. For every degree of warming, prokaryote biomass could decline by about 1.5 percent, while larger organisms could see a decline of 3-5 percent. This shift could result in a reduction in total marine biomass, affecting the availability of fish and other resources vital to human consumption.

Future considerations

Increased prokaryote activity could lead to higher carbon emissions from the oceans, complicating efforts to meet global carbon reduction targets. Furthermore, predicted declines in fish stocks could have a significant impact on food security, as the oceans are a major source of protein for approximately 3 billion people. Understanding these changes is crucial for developing effective strategies to manage marine ecosystems and mitigate the effects of climate change. Continued research is needed to adapt to these evolving challenges and ensure the sustainability of ocean resources.