High resolution spatial analyses of trace elements in coccoliths reveal new insights into element incorporation in coccolithophore calcite.

ABSTRACT: Coccolithophores are phytoplanktonic algae which produce an exoskeleton made of single platelets of calcite named coccoliths. They are widespread in all oceans and directly impact the short- and long-term C cycle. The study of coccolith size, morphology and elemental composition reveals important information regarding the ability of the cell to calcify and on the factors that influence this process. In this regard, very little is known about coccolith composition and its changes under altered environmental conditions. Here, we present high resolution (50 × 50 nm) elemental spatial distribution in pristine coccoliths of Coccolithus pelagicus and Gephyrocapsa oceanica reconstructed via X-ray fluorescence analyses at synchrotron. The studied specimens are from control culture and metal-enrich

SUBMITTER: Bottini C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7299995 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature