oa Enhanced Remineralization (Priming) of Organic Pollutants in Anoxic Coastal Marine Sediments

Priming (effect) is a mechanism in which the input of labile organic matter enhances microbial remineralization of refractory organic matter. Considering that a large part of the new molecules added to the ocean due to anthropic activities can be persistent (refractory) pollutants, here we assessed the potential role of priming in remineralizing these organic compounds. Using a mesocosm approach, we tested the priming effect over Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) using natural microbial communities from the seasonal upwelling ecosystem off Concepción (Chile, high anthropogenic pressure and organic matter), and the Golfo Almirante Montt Fjord in the Chilean Patagonia (low anthropogenic pressure and organic matter).