Marine snow is a continuous shower of mostly organic detritus falling from the upper
layers of the water column.It is a significant means of exporting energy from the light-rich photic zone to the
aphotic zone below, which is referred to as the biological pump.As it sinks, the snow sustains deep-sea creatures,
providing a vital food source in a barren environment.
Because of its slow descent—taking weeks to reach the ocean floor—marine snow is heavily
consumed on the way down.However, the small percentage that does reach the bottom forms a thick, sludge-like
layer covering the sea floor.This accumulation not only supports benthic
(bottom-dwelling) organisms but also traps carbon for millions of years.
Despite its critical role, marine snow is poorly understood.But warming oceans may alter the composition and volume of marine snow, reducing its
ability to act as a carbon sink.Understanding this fragile snowfall is crucial for predicting future climate
shifts.