Deep-Sea Bacteria Release Excess Carbon into the Ocean and Atmosphere Written by AZoCleantechApr 13 2021 A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota has found that deep-sea bacteria dissolve carbon-containing rocks and discharge surplus carbon into the air and ocean. CSE researchers collected samples of carbonate rocks from the Del Mar East methane seep using a submersible watercraft. They discovered that deep-sea bacteria are dissolving these rocks, releasing excess carbon into the ocean and atmosphere. Image Credit: Leprich, et al., Bailey Geobiology Research Group, University of Minnesota. The study results will enable researchers to better evaluate the amount of carbon dioxide in Earth’s atmosphere, which is a principal driver of global warming.