The deep sea covers over 90% of the ocean’s volume – yet it remains one of the least understood ecosystems on Earth. A new report led by GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel urges immediate global action to regulate human activities and boost scientific research in these fragile environments. From biodiversity hotspots to climate regulation, the deep ocean plays a crucial role in planetary health. The authors call for international cooperation, long-term monitoring, and better data access to safeguard this hidden world.

A new study reveals that certain bacteria in Croatia’s freshwater lakes engage in „selfish“ behavior, hoarding nutrients in ways that disrupt the natural nutrient cycle. These bacteria take up polysaccharides, which are essential nutrients, more aggressively than other organisms. This behavior could potentially alter the balance of ecosystems and impact the overall health of the lakes. The research sheds light on how microbial actions can shape food webs and nutrient dynamics in aquatic environments.

A new study reveals that nutrient enrichment significantly strengthens the link between precipitation and plant growth. Researchers found that adding nitrogen and phosphorus increases plant biomass in grasslands, especially under varying rainfall conditions. This finding highlights the critical role of nutrient availability in ecosystem responses to climate change. The study emphasizes the need for considering nutrient levels when predicting plant responses to future precipitation patterns.

Some microorganisms thrive where few others can — in acidic, low-oxygen hydrothermal vents. Researchers have discovered that these microbes use a special metabolic shortcut called the rTCA cycle. This allows them to conserve energy while fixing carbon in one of Earth’s harshest environments.