Scientists from the Netherlands Institute for Marine Research (NIOZ) have discovered that increased storms due to climate change can greatly benefit algae by enriching aquatic vegetation with nitrogen fertilizers. The article was published on: portal Netherlands Scientific Publications (NRP).
Experts have discovered that during storms, strong waves lift and stir the bottom mud, releasing large amounts of nutrients. Thus, in a few hours, plants receive the amount of nutrients that would take weeks to produce under calm conditions.
The researchers confirmed their assumption by loosening bottom sediments with a construction mixer and measuring fertilizer concentrations in the water column.
Scientists say storms not only release nitrogen but also accelerate the uptake of phosphorus. The discovery will make it possible to regulate the ecological state of intertidal zones more effectively.
Despite the benefits found, storms that intensify with climate change pose an increasing threat. Global losses from storms and other climate-related disasters amounted to approximately $250 billion in 2023, according to international insurance company Munich Re.
Previous scientists warnedand about the risk of new category six super-strong hurricanes due to global warming.