Volcanic eruptions fertilize ocean waters, boosting phytoplankton
Volcanic eruptions scatter nutrient-rich ash into oceans, supercharging phytoplankton growth and igniting massive blooms that sustain marine ecosystems and influence Earth's climate.
Volcanic eruptions surprisingly act as ocean fertilizers, releasing ash rich in iron, phosphorus, and silica. This nutrient-packed ash settles into the sea, sparking rapid growth of phytoplankton, the tiny algae forming the base of the marine food web. These blooms are especially vital in iron-scarce regions like the Southern Ocean.
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