Deep Sea Oxygen Discovery: A Glimpse into the Abyssal Mysteries

6th August 2024

By Samantha Weetman PhD, Science Writer.

In an astonishing breakthrough, scientists have uncovered a novel process for oxygen production deep within the ocean, defying our conventional understanding of marine life and oxygen dynamics. This discovery, detailed in a recent publication in Nature [1] and highlighted by various media outlets [2], [3], reveals the production of “dark oxygen” by metal interactions on the ocean floor. This finding opens new avenues for research and highlights the complex, unexplored ecosystems of the deep sea.

The Discovery of Dark Oxygen

The term “dark oxygen” refers to the production of oxygen in the absence of sunlight. Traditionally, biological oxygen production has been associated with photosynthesis, which is a process heavily reliant on sunlight. In the ocean, plants, algae and photosynthetic bacteria are known to produce oxygen [4]. However, researchers from the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) have now discovered that certain polymetallic nodules, found abundantly on the abyssal seafloor, can generate net oxygen through a series of chemical reactions independent of light. The researchers hypothesized that net dark oxygen production (DOP) comes from seawater electrolysis [1]. This process is akin to electrolysis but occurs naturally under the high-pressure and low-temperature conditions of the deep ocean. The implications of this discovery are vast, suggesting that oxygen can be produced in environments previously thought incapable of supporting such reactions​​.

Implications for Marine Ecosystems and Renewable Energy

The discovery of DOP not only challenges our understanding of oceanic oxygen dynamics but also highlights the intricate and resilient nature of deep-sea ecosystems. These ecosystems, thriving in extreme conditions, play a crucial role in global biogeochemical cycles. The presence of a previously unknown oxygen source could alter our understanding of these cycles and the overall functioning of deep-sea habitats [5].

Furthermore, this discovery has potential implications for renewable energy and resource extraction. Metals found in these deep-sea nodules, such as manganese, nickel and cobalt, are also critical components of batteries and other renewable energy technologies [5].​ However, any efforts to mine these resources must be balanced with the need to protect the fragile deep-sea environment. Organisations such as the Sustainable Ocean Alliance and the Oxygen Project, and initiatives like the Deep-Sea Mining Science Statement, are advocating for responsible exploration and the protection of these unique ecosystems [6]​.

The Environmental Perspective

While the prospect of harnessing deep-sea resources is enticing, it is imperative to approach such endeavours with caution. The deep sea is one of the least understood and most vulnerable ecosystems on our planet. Disrupting these environments could have unforeseen consequences on global ocean health and biodiversity. As we venture into these uncharted waters, the scientific community and environmental advocates stress the importance of sustainable practices that prioritise ecosystem preservation​.

Sailing Towards Sustainable Innovation

The discovery of dark oxygen production in the deep ocean is a testament to the ingenuity of nature and the relentless curiosity of scientists. As we continue to explore and understand these remote parts of our planet, it is crucial to balance innovation with conservation. By doing so, we can unlock the secrets of the deep sea while ensuring its protection for future generations. This remarkable finding not only enriches our knowledge of marine science but also underscores the importance of responsible stewardship of our natural resources.

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References

[1]      A. K. Sweetman et al., ‘Evidence of dark oxygen production at the abyssal seafloor’, Nat. Geosci., pp. 1–3, Jul. 2024, doi: 10.1038/s41561-024-01480-8.

[2]      ‘Dark oxygen made by deep sea “batteries”’, BBC News. Accessed: Jul. 31, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c728ven2v9eo

[3]      ‘New study reveals “dark oxygen” produced by metals on deep-ocean floor’, The Independent. Accessed: Jul. 31, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/deep-ocean-dark-oxygen-b2584856.html

[4]      ‘How much oxygen comes from the ocean?’ Accessed: Jul. 31, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/ocean-oxygen.html

[5]      S. UHI, ‘Deep-sea discovery calls into question origins of life’. Accessed: Jul. 31, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.sams.ac.uk/news/sams-news-dark-oxygen-discovery.html [6]      ‘Deep-Sea Mining Science Statement’, Deep-Sea Mining Science Statement. Accessed: Jul. 31, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://seabedminingsciencestatement.org