Genes from tiny algae shed light on big role managing carbon in world's oceans

Study shows how algae may cope with environmental change

		IMAGE: Transmission electron micrograph of one of the smallest known eukaryotic algae, Micromonas. Click here for more information.

WALNUT CREEK, Calif.— Scientists from two-dozen research organizations led by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Genome Institute (JGI) and the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) have decoded genomes of two algal strains, highlighting the genes enabling them to capture carbon and maintain its delicate balance in the oceans. These findings, from a team led by Alexandra Z. Worden of MBARI and published in the April 10 edition of the journal Science, will illuminate cellular processes related to algae-derived biofuels being pursued by DOE scientists.