Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/A/S/2001/01202

Direct quantification of phytoplankton mortality due to viral activity: a new approach.

Principal Investigator:: Dr S Archer, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, UNLISTED
Co-Investigator:: Dr WH Wilson, Bigelow Lab for Ocean Sciences, Bigelow Lab for Ocean Sciences
Co-Investigator:: Professor P Burkill, University of Plymouth, Sch of Engineering
Grant held at:: Plymouth Marine Laboratory, UNLISTED

ENRIs:: Natural Resource Management; Global Change; Biodiversity
Science Topics:: Environmental Microbiology; Biogeochemical Cycles; Ocean - Atmosphere Interact.; Community Ecology

Abstract:: The contribution of viral infection to phytoplankton modality has fundamental implications for ocean biogeochemistry and ecology. Viral activity influences the fate of primary production and phytoplankton succession, may enhance phytoplankton diversity and structures food webs. However, no techniques currently exist to directly quantify the viral component of phytoplankton mortality. We aim to develop a highly promising dilution technique to directly quantify viral mortality of specific phytoplankton in natural waters. The technique will be developed using phytoplankton host:virus:grazer systems in the laboratory. It will then be tested in natural waters in a seasonal study and in different biogeochemical provinces. This information will be used to interpret phytoplankton:viral:grazer population dynamics and their biogeochemical consequences.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £131,603

Total - T&S	Total - Staff	Total - Other Costs	Total - Equipment	Total - Indirect Costs
£2,371	£70,637	£12,927	£13,173	£32,494

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