Tiny Plankton Play Crucial Role in Earth's Climate
October 10, 2025 - ZAGREB, CROATIA - In a bid to raise awareness about the vital role they play in regulating Earth's climate and sustaining ocean ecosystems, European scientists are celebrating International Coccolithophore Day today. These microscopic plankton, smaller than a grain of dust, capture carbon, produce oxygen, and leave behind geological records that chronicle our planet's history.
According to Dr. Jelena Godrijan, lead researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Croatia, "Coccolithophores are tiny architects of Earth's climate. Their intricate calcium plates play a significant role in the global carbon cycle." These single-celled ocean algae have been found to capture up to 20% of the world's carbon dioxide emissions.
The international collaboration highlights groundbreaking research into how these microscopic organisms link ocean chemistry, climate regulation, and carbon storage. "It's incredible to think that something so small can have such a profound impact on our planet," said Dr. Godrijan. "We're not just talking about a local issue; we're talking about a global problem that requires a global solution."
The initiative aims to raise awareness among policymakers, scientists, and the general public about the importance of these tiny organisms. "By understanding the role of coccolithophores in regulating Earth's climate, we can better appreciate the interconnectedness of our planet," said Dr. Godrijan.
Coccolithophores have been found in oceans around the world, from the warm waters of the tropics to the cold waters of the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Their ability to capture carbon dioxide has significant implications for efforts to mitigate climate change.
The Ruđer Bošković Institute is leading a global effort to study these microscopic organisms and their role in regulating Earth's climate. The research aims to provide policymakers with valuable insights into how to address the challenges of climate change.
As the world grapples with the complexities of climate change, scientists are turning to the tiny plankton that have been quietly working behind the scenes to regulate our planet's climate. By celebrating International Coccolithophore Day, researchers hope to raise awareness about the crucial role these microscopic organisms play in sustaining life on Earth.
Background:
Coccolithophores have been a subject of scientific interest for decades, but recent research has shed new light on their importance in regulating Earth's climate. The Ruđer Bošković Institute is one of several leading research institutions around the world studying these microscopic organisms.
Additional Perspectives:
Dr. Godrijan emphasized that the research highlights the need for a global approach to addressing climate change. "We're not just talking about a local issue; we're talking about a global problem that requires a global solution," she said.
The initiative has received support from policymakers and scientists around the world, who recognize the importance of raising awareness about the role of coccolithophores in regulating Earth's climate.
Current Status:
International Coccolithophore Day is being celebrated today with events and activities taking place across Europe. The Ruđer Bošković Institute is hosting a series of lectures and workshops to raise awareness about the importance of these microscopic organisms.
The research initiative aims to provide policymakers with valuable insights into how to address the challenges of climate change. By understanding the role of coccolithophores in regulating Earth's climate, scientists hope to develop new strategies for mitigating the effects of climate change.
Next Developments:
The Ruđer Bošković Institute plans to continue its research into the role of coccolithophores in regulating Earth's climate. The initiative aims to provide policymakers with regular updates on the latest research findings and recommendations for addressing the challenges of climate change.
*Reporting by Sciencedaily.*
