00:00Some of the ocean's tiniest particles could carry more than six times as much carbon into the deep sea.
00:06They're called marine snow, but they're not frozen water.
00:09These tiny clumps of dead plankton, waste, and mucus sink through the ocean,
00:14carrying carbon away from surface waters.
00:16Scientists have found that their stickiness may make a major difference.
00:20Bacteria can break down softer regions more easily, while thicker.
00:24More viscous interiors resist degradation.
00:26As a result, some particles may sink deeper before breaking apart,
00:31allowing more carbon to escape recycling in shallower waters.
00:35Researchers used three-dimensional microscopy and fluorescent molecules
00:39to observe how bacteria interact with these microscopic structures.
00:43The discovery could help scientists improve their understanding of the ocean's role in long-term carbon storage.
00:49It's a reminder that even the smallest details can influence a much bigger climate process.
00:54Disclosure. This video contains stock footage and content created or enhanced using AI-assisted tools.
00:59It's Matthew
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