Whale faecal matter reduces CO2 levels
The Australian Antarctic Division scientists have revealed that the faecal matter of whales may possibly be crucial in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) level reduction.
The faeces of the whale are rich in iron and promote growth of algae.
The scientists analysed samples of whale faeces and discovered that they contain more than 10 million times more iron compared to seawater.
Iron is something vital to the growth of minute microscopic plants like phytoplankton and algae.
Scientists uncovered that when krill feeds on algae, and whales are feeding on the krill, the iron concentration of the ocean increases.
According to ABC News, chemical oceanographer Dr. Andrew Bowie says more algae are good news for the change of climate. He also stated that algae undergo photosynthesis while growing and the withdrawal of CO2 from the atmosphere is a part of this process.
As suggested by the research, more whales in the ocean bring an increase in algae population and decrease the atmospheric carbon dioxide levels correspondingly.