Macroalgae and Si Cycling

What is it about?

Silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element in the crust of the earth, and it plays an essential role in carbon cycling and global climate. While most research has focused on diatoms and land plants, here we show that temperate marine macroalgae contain substantial amounts of Si. This new "sink" of Si may play a role in coastal Si limitation which could have far ranging affects on primary production and C sequestration.

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