Washington, Nov. 24 -- : The movement patterns of microscopic algae can be mapped in greater detail than ever before, giving new insights into ocean health, thanks to new technology developed at the University of Exeter.
The new platform allows scientists to study in unprecedented detail the patterns of movement of microscopic algae. The insight could have implications for understanding and preventing harmful algal blooms, and for the development of algal biofuels, which could one day provide an alternative to fossil fuels.
Microscopic algae play a key role in ocean ecosystems, forming the bases of aquatic food webs, and sequestering most of the world's carbon. The health of oceans therefore depends on maintaining stable algal communities...