Archive · 17 Jun 2025
New Giant Viruses Discovered in Oceans Threaten Oxygen Production
Scientists found hundreds of new giant viruses in the ocean!
These viruses are bigger than usual.
They attack tiny ocean plants called phytoplankton, which make most of the air we breathe.
The viruses can take over how the plants work.
The scientists are hoping to understand the viruses to manage environmental issues, like harmful algae blooms.
The study was published in a science journal.
Researchers discovered 230 new giant viruses in oceans worldwide.
The viruses can kill phytoplankton, which produce most of Earth's oxygen.
Scientists identified 569 new functional proteins in the viruses.
Viruses manipulate hosts and photosynthesis during infection.
Study published in Nature npj Viruses.
- Who
- Researchers including Benjamin Minch and Mohammad Moniruzzaman.
- What
- Discovery of 230 new giant viruses.
- When
- Not specified in articles.
- Where
- Oceans worldwide.
- Why
- To better understand ocean ecosystems and potential for managing harmful algal blooms.
Potential Risks
Ecological Aspects
Impacts on Phytoplankton
Potential Risks
Viruses kill phytoplankton.
Ecological Aspects
No opposing views provided in article.
- Lead Researchers
- Benjamin Minch, Mohammad Moniruzzaman
- Journal
- Nature npj Viruses
- Viruses Discovered
- 230 new
- Functional Proteins
- 569 new
- Virus Categories
- Imitervirales, Algavirales