JOURNAL ARTICLE

Deep-sea mining might feed plankton a diet of junk food.

  • Published In: Science News, 2026, v. 208, n. 2. P. 28 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: GRAMLING, CAROLYN 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the potential ecological impacts of deep-sea mining on ocean food webs, particularly concerning plankton. Researchers have found that sediment plumes generated by mining operations can introduce nutrient-poor particles that plankton may ingest instead of more nutritious food, potentially leading to starvation cascades affecting larger marine predators. The study, conducted by oceanographers from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, highlights the risks posed not only to deep-sea ecosystems but also to shallower marine environments, where sediment plumes can disrupt food sources. The findings raise concerns about the long-term consequences of seabed mining on marine biodiversity. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Science News. 2026/02, Vol. 208, Issue 2, p28
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0036-8423
  • Accession Number:190728385
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