Marine phosphate

Marine phosphate refers to naturally occurring phosphate minerals found in ocean sediments. These phosphates are primarily composed of calcium phosphate compounds, which are essential nutrients for all living organisms because they form the backbone of DNA, bones, and teeth. In the ocean, phosphate originates from the breakdown of organic material like plankton and fish, settling into sediments over time. Marine phosphate deposits are significant as a resource for producing fertilizers, helping to support global agriculture. They are also an indicator of past marine environments and biological activity in Earth's history.