Predict the most likely outcome of fertilising areas of ocean with iron.
A) an increase in dinoflagellate populations that will eliminate problems caused by red tides
B) an increase in foram populations that will contribute to growth of corals and their symbionts
C) an increase in diatom populations that will contribute to reducing atmospheric CO₂
D) a decrease in slime mould populations and thus a decrease in decomposition rates

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fertilizing ocean with iron will lead to an increase in diatom populations, which are known to absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere through the process of photosynthesis. This is one of the proposed methods to reduce atmospheric CO₂ and combat global warming.

Predict the Most Likely Outcome of Fertilising Areas of Ocean