Role of Marine Phytoplankton in Determining the Chemical Speciation and Biogeochemical Cycling of Arsenic

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Abstract
Biological mediation of arsenic speciation in marine systems is substantial and significant. Phytoplankton reduce and methylate arsenic, thus altering its geochemical cycle. Rates of arsenic reduction and methylation are proportional to the primary productivity of the ecosystem. In highly productive ecosystems, up to 80% of the total arsenic pool may undergo reduction and methylation. Experiments detailing rates of reduction have been performed in controlled marine ecosystems. Predictions of arsenic speciation based on these results agree well with actual samples taken from coastal areas. The form of reduced arsenic present varies between regions and temporally within regions, probably because of differences in phytoplankton community structure.

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