Objectives Theme 2
Coordinator: Ingrid Obernosterer
Micro- and macroorganisms are key drivers of the biogeochemical cycles of major and trace elements in the ocean. The consideration of the biological characteristics of marine organisms, and their organization within ecosystems in terms of diversity, functions and interactions is key for a better understanding of the biogeochemical cycling of elements. The objective of this theme is to establish links between key biogeochemical fluxes in the ocean and the microbial communities carrying out these processes.
We have addressed this issue through the following specific research questions:
- Can we identify the major ecological vectors of carbon export?
- Is the degradation of marine organic matter linked to microbial diversity?
- How does convective overturn affect microbial productivity and diversity?
- Can we detect recurrent seasonal patterns in microbial activity and diversity?
- How ubiquitous is N2 fixation in the ocean, and who are the main diazotrophs?
Short- or long-term in situ observations, both based on oceanographic cruises in the Southern and Arctic Oceans, the Pacific Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea are the main pillars of this research theme. We use experimental studies either performed in the laboratory or onboard research vessels to test specific hypothesis that emerge from our field observations.
Keywords : Marine microbial communities, microbial diversity, microbial respiration, dissolved organic matter degradation, priming effect, photochemistry
Contact : Ingrid Obernosterer
E-mail : obernosterer @ obs-banyuls.fr
Tel : 33 (0)4 68 88 73 53
Our lastest publications
Blanchet M., Fernandez C., Joux F. (2017) Photorecativity of riverine and phytoplanktonic dissolved organic matter and its effects on the marine bacterial growth and composition in Mediterranean Sea. Progress in Oceanography http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pocean.2017.03.003
Rembauville M., N. Briggs, M...
Key words
Marine microbial communities, microbial diversity, microbial respiration, dissolved organic matter, priming effect, biodegradation, photodegradation