Biological production of trace gases and their precursors is a key research area for our group. Currently we have active projects on dimethyl sulphide (DMS), organohalogens and non-methane hydrocarbons.

Dimethyl sulphide

The major precursor of DMS is the compatible solute dimethylsulphoniopropionate (DMSP), which is found in varying concentrations in different types of unicellular marine phytoplankton and seaweeds. In open seawater high DMS and DMSP levels are often found in areas where ecologically important phytoplankton groups such as dinoflagellates and prymnesiophytes occur. We are particularly interested in processes that liberate DMSP from cells, convert DMSP to DMS and acrylate, and transform or remove DMS and DMSP. Both the physiological status of algal cells and marine microbial ecology can influence DMS production in seawater. We are investigating algal DMSP lyase, grazing by zooplankton, viral lysis, nutrient and light availability, biogenic and photochemical DMSO production. Our research involves laboratory studies using cultures, plus ship-board and land-based field studies.

Organohalogens and non-methane hydrocarbons

In contrast to DMS, much less is known about the origins of these compounds in seawater. Our approach entails using macroalgae (seaweeds) as well as cultures of marine microorganisms. Some macroalgae accumulate iodine to very high levels and offer the opportunity to study the physiological basis of production of volatile alkyl iodides. We are also investigating the role of marine algae in iodine biogeochemistry and the production of non-methane hydrocarbons such as ethene and isoprene.

Collaborations

We often work with scientists from other institutions and within multi-disciplinary research projects funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the European Union.

Laboratory Facilities

Marine Trace Gas Biology Laboratory which is a microbiology Hazard Category 2 facility. Funding from the Joint Infrastructure Fund allowed a major expansion and refurbishment of the laboratory. We moved back into our smart new laboratory in June 2002.