The Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

2027 Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

January 12-15, 2027

Perspective: Effects of Topographically Controlled Currents and Microbial Activities on Nature Iron Fertilization, Plankton Community and Carbon Export in the Shackleton Transverse Ridge Region, Drake Passage
ID:1117 Invited Oral Presentation

2027-01-12 13:45 (China Standard Time)

Session: Session 19 - Southern Ocean Bio-diversity Under Climate Change

Abstract
The Shackleton Transverse Ridge is a unique topographic barrier within the Drake Passage, strongly modulating circumpolar current dynamics and regional biogeochemical cycles in the Southern Ocean. Topographically induced current deflection, turbulent mixing, and sediment resuspension provide persistent iron sources that drive enhanced natural iron fertilization in this high‑nutrient, low‑iron system. Combined with in situ microbial activities, including microbial iron regeneration and organic matter remineralization, bioavailable iron inputs collectively alleviate ambient iron limitation, restructure plankton community composition, and elevate primary production. Shifts in plankton assemblages further alter food web structure, particle sinking rates, and vertical carbon transportation. These physical and biological coupling processes substantially regulate the magnitude, pathway and efficiency of carbon export from surface waters to the deep ocean. This perspective highlights that topographic hydrodynamic regulation and microbial modulation are two indispensable drivers sustaining active iron cycling, shaping plankton ecosystems, and strengthening biological carbon sequestration over the Shackleton Transverse Ridge.
Speaker
Meng Zhou China; Shanghai Jiao Tong University; Shanghai;School of Oceanography

Author
Meng Zhou China; Shanghai Jiao Tong University; Shanghai;School of Oceanography

    Important Dates

    • Jan 30

      2026

      Session / Event proposals open

    • Mar 31

      2026

      Session / Event proposals close
      (Extended to April 7)

    • Apr 30

      2026

      Session acceptance notifications

    • Apr 30

      2026

      Abstract submissions & registration open

    • Jun 30

      2026

      Abstract submissions close
      (Extended to July 21)

    • Aug 31

      2026

      Abstract acceptance notifications

    • Sep 15

      2026

      Scientific program released

    • Oct 15

      2026

      Early bird registration closes

    • Jan 12–15

      2027

      XMAS 2027