Department of Marine Biogeoscience, Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI),
Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570
Bremerhaven, Germany
Faculty of Biology/Chemistry, University of Bremen, Leobener Strasse,
28359 Bremen, Germany
Dedmer B. Van de Waal
Department of Aquatic Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology
(NIOO-KNAW), Droevendaalsesteeg 10, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands
Mirja Hoins
Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht
University, Princetonlaan 8a, 3584 CB Utrecht, the Netherlands
Department of Marine Biogeoscience, Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI),
Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, 27570
Bremerhaven, Germany
Reconstructions of past CO2 concentrations rely on proxy estimates, with one line of proxies relying on the CO2-dependence of stable carbon isotope fractionation in marine phytoplankton. Culturing experiments provide insights into which processes may impact this. We found, however, that the methods with which these culturing experiments are performed also influence 13C fractionation. Caution should therefore be taken when extrapolating results from these experiments to proxy applications.
Reconstructions of past CO2 concentrations rely on proxy estimates, with one line of proxies...