Ross Sea Diatoms (IMAGE) University of California - San Diego Caption Photosynthetic plankton like these Ross Sea diatoms are key players in the global carbon cycle and form the base of marine food webs, but a new study reveals their ability to acquire iron is highly sensitive to ocean acidification. Credit Jeff McQuaid Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.