Trichodesmium

Trichodesmium bloom off Great Barrier Reef 2014-03-07 19-59

Simplefilaments022 Trichodesmium

File:Trichodesmium erythraeum.jpg

Trichodesmium erythraeum

File:Nitrogen fixation reaction.jpg

Nitrogen fixation reaction

Trichodesmium bloom, SW Pacific

Trichodesmium colonies sorted into the morphological classes

Trichodesmium is a genus of filamentous cyanobacteria that is found in nutrient-poor tropical and subtropical ocean waters. These cyanobacteria are known for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, which is a critical process in the marine nitrogen cycle.

Description

Trichodesmium forms colonies that can be seen with the naked eye, often appearing as tufts or puffs in the water. These colonies are composed of filaments, known as trichomes, which are chains of cells. The trichomes can aggregate into larger structures, sometimes forming visible blooms on the ocean surface.

Nitrogen Fixation

One of the most significant ecological roles of Trichodesmium is its ability to fix nitrogen. Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonia (NH3), which can then be used by other organisms. This process is particularly important in oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) waters where nitrogen is a limiting nutrient.

Distribution

Trichodesmium is predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world's oceans. It thrives in warm, nutrient-poor waters and is often found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.

Ecological Importance

Trichodesmium plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems by contributing to the nitrogen cycle. The fixed nitrogen released by Trichodesmium supports the growth of other marine organisms, including phytoplankton and zooplankton, which form the base of the marine food web.

Research and Studies

Research on Trichodesmium has provided insights into the global nitrogen cycle and the role of cyanobacteria in marine ecosystems. Studies have focused on its physiology, genetics, and ecological impact.

Related Pages

• Cyanobacteria
• Nitrogen fixation
• Marine nitrogen cycle
• Phytoplankton
• Zooplankton