Iron is a vital micronutrient for phytoplankton growth and photosynthesis that has historically been delivered to the pelagic sea by dust storms from arid lands. This Aeolian dust contains 3–5% iron and its deposition has fallen nearly 25% in recent decades.
Phytoplankton rely on iron for growth and photosynthesis, which is traditionally supplied to the open ocean via dust storms originating from dry lands. These dust particles contain 3-5% iron, but their deposition has decreased by roughly 25% over the past few decades.