New perspectives on nitrogen-fixing microorganisms in tropical and subtropical oceans

Trends Microbiol. 2000 Feb;8(2):68-73. doi: 10.1016/s0966-842x(99)01670-4.

Abstract

New molecular and microscopic evidence indicates that the open ocean harbors a diverse range of novel free-living and symbiotic nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. Although the extent to which these microorganisms fix nitrogen is currently unclear, ongoing research indicates that they might make a substantial contribution to the open ocean nitrogen budget.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bacteria / genetics
  • Bacteria / metabolism*
  • Cyanobacteria / metabolism
  • Nitrogen Fixation*
  • Oceans and Seas
  • Seawater / microbiology*
  • Symbiosis
  • Tropical Climate
  • Water Microbiology