Understanding RNA Viruses in the Ocean
A groundbreaking study from Bar-Ilan University reveals that certain ocean viruses, particularly RNA viruses, can significantly disrupt the recycling of carbon and nutrients in marine environments. This disruption may lead to substantial changes in the global carbon cycle. The research, a collaboration with Rutgers University, zeroes in on viruses that target microscopic algae known as phytoplankton, which play a critical role in sustaining marine life.
Phytoplankton are essential for the ocean’s health and directly influence the carbon cycle. By infecting these microscopic organisms, RNA viruses may alter the way carbon is processed in the ocean. This alteration raises concerns about the long-term implications for climate change and ocean health. As researchers delve deeper into this topic, understanding the relationship between RNA viruses and phytoplankton will be crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the impacts on the global carbon cycle.
