Does Desert Dust Help Ocean Life?

on April 1, 2025
Featured in Answers Magazine

Dust from the Sahara Desert blows long distances before settling in the Atlantic Ocean. As dust travels from the desert to the ocean, it picks up iron, which is necessary for marine organisms like phytoplankton. A new study shows that the further the dust travels, the more bioreactive (available to other organisms) the iron becomes due to chemical processes in the atmosphere.

From the desert to the sea, God instilled interconnectedness in his creation. The dust blowing from the Sahara to the Atlantic Ocean shows that he created the wondrous processes necessary to keep life going even in our fallen world.

Answers Magazine

April–June 2025

There’s a whole world of beautiful places to explore. But what does Jesus’ earthly ministry teach us about truly seeing the world?

Browse Issue

Newsletter

Get the latest answers emailed to you.

Answers in Genesis is an apologetics ministry, dedicated to helping Christians defend their faith and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.

Learn more

  • Customer Service 800.778.3390
  • Available Monday–Friday | 9 AM–5 PM ET