Marine anoxia impede the transformation of dissolved organic carbon released by kelp into refractory dissolved organic carbon

The transformation of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) released by macroalgae into refractory dissolved organic carbon (RDOC) through microbial carbon pump (MCP) represents a crucial carbon sequestration process. This process mainly takes place in coastal areas, where it is likely affected by marine anoxia. The interactions between the components of DOC released by kelp and the community structure of heterotrophic bacteria both under normoxic and anoxic conditions were studied by three-dimensional fluorescence parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC), Fourier Transform-Ion Cyclotron Resonance-Mass Spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS) and 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing. Following 240 days of decomposition, we found that the proportion of labile dissolved organic carbon (LDOC) was 4.61 % greater under anoxic conditions compared to normoxic conditions. Conversely, the proportion of RDOC was 8.06 % lower under anoxic conditions than under normoxic conditions. These findings suggest that anoxia hinders the conversion of LDOC to RDOC in the DOC released by kelp. Although normoxic conditions favor RDOC production, anoxic conditions could be more advantageous for the transport of DOC to the deep ocean, potentially enhancing carbon sequestration. The cultivation of macroalgae in anoxic zones may further boost their carbon sequestration potential. •Microbial degradation of DOC from kelp was studied under normoxic and anoxic conditions.•The transformation of DOC from kelp into RDOC varied in response to changes in oxygen levels.•Normoxic conditions enhanced kelp-derived DOC degradation, boosting RDOC production.•Anoxic conditions inhibited kelp DOC degradation and retained more LDOC.