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Ancient Phytoplankton Resurrected After 7,000 Years Dormant

3/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research have resurrected the ancient diatom Skeletonema marinoi, dormant for nearly 7,000 years in Baltic Sea sediment. This remarkable revival, part of the PHYTOARK project, opens a window into the past, enabling scientists to explore how ancient phytoplankton adapted to dramatic environmental shifts.

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Story summary

In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research have resurrected the ancient diatom Skeletonema marinoi, dormant for nearly 7,000 years in Baltic Sea sediment. This remarkable revival, part of the PHYTOARK project, opens a window into the past, enabling scientists to explore how ancient phytoplankton adapted to dramatic environmental shifts.