Coccolithophore

Coccolithus pelagicus

Coccolithophores

CC-BY icon

CC-BY icon

Diagram of a coccolithophore cell and its shield of coccoliths

File:Figure 3coccoliths.jpg

Figure 3coccoliths

Coccolithophore

File:Coccolithophore.jpg

Coccolithophore under a microscope

Coccolithophores are a unique group of single-celled algae belonging to the class Prymnesiophyceae within the Haptophyta division. These microscopic organisms are characterized by their production of intricate calcium carbonate plates known as coccoliths, which form a protective covering called a coccosphere.

Biology

Coccolithophores are primarily marine phytoplankton and play a significant role in the carbon cycle due to their ability to sequester carbon dioxide through the formation of coccoliths. They are photosynthetic, utilizing chlorophyll and other pigments to capture light energy for the production of organic compounds.

Structure

The most distinctive feature of coccolithophores is their coccoliths, which are produced within the cell and then extruded to the cell surface. These coccoliths are composed of calcium carbonate and can vary greatly in shape and size among different species. The coccosphere provides protection against predators and may also aid in buoyancy regulation.

Ecology

Coccolithophores are found in both coastal and open ocean environments, from the surface to the deep sea. They thrive in nutrient-poor, oligotrophic waters and are particularly abundant in the subtropical gyres. Their distribution is influenced by factors such as light availability, temperature, and nutrient concentrations.

Role in the Carbon Cycle

Coccolithophores contribute to the biological pump by transporting carbon from the surface ocean to the deep sea. When coccolithophores die, their coccoliths sink, effectively removing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in ocean sediments. This process is a critical component of the global carbon cycle and has implications for climate change.

Fossil Record

Coccolithophores have a rich fossil record dating back to the Mesozoic Era. Their coccoliths are well-preserved in marine sediments, providing valuable information about past ocean conditions and climate. The study of fossil coccolithophores, known as coccolithophorid biostratigraphy, is an important tool in paleoclimatology and paleoceanography.

Research and Applications

Research on coccolithophores encompasses various fields, including marine biology, geology, and climate science. Understanding their role in the carbon cycle and their response to environmental changes is crucial for predicting future climate scenarios. Additionally, coccolithophores are used in biotechnology for the production of biofuels and other valuable compounds.

Related Pages

• Phytoplankton
• Calcium carbonate
• Carbon cycle
• Biological pump
• Paleoclimatology
• Paleoceanography