Microbial Life in Marine Environments


Microbes account for more than 90% of ocean biomass and constitute a hidden majority of life that flourishes in the sea. What is even more surprising is that much of this microbial life remains unknown because we cannot culture it in a test tube and it is difficult to observe in nature.

About Marine Microbes

Ross Sea, Antarctica

Learn about microbial life in marine environments: Why are marine microbes so difficult to study? What tools are used to study them? Where can you find them?


Topics of Interest

Satellite image of the Gulf of Mexico. Light colored water shows, often nutrient-rich sediment flowing into the deeper ocean water. These nutrients facilitate growth of phytoplankton blooms, which can lead to hypoxic conditions.

These investigative case studies and special collections are dedicated to marine microbes. Learn about the dead zone and red tide.


Online Resources

Elphidium

Search the collection of internet resources - including websites, articles, images, data sets, teaching activities, and more - dedicated to microbial life in marine environments.



Resources for K-12 Teachers and Students

Student measuring liquid with a graduated cylinder.

Bring the world of marine microbes into the classroom with this collection of resources for K-12 teachers and students, including online WebQuests and activities.