Mixotrophic plankton foraging behaviour linked to carbon export.

Cohen, Natalie R · Nat Commun · 2022

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Marine mixotrophic protists that use both heterotrophic and phototrophic metabolisms may impact the carbon cycle in unexpected ways. A recently characterized mixotroph can craft three-dimensional mucilage feeding structures that trap nutrient-rich plankton prey and contribute to the sinking of carbon from the surface ocean.

Medical subject headings