Diazotrophic cyanobacterium Trichodesmium spp. in China marginal seas: Comparison with other global seas

Trichodesmium spp. is probably the most important diazotroph in oligotrophic tropical and subtropical seas. Their N fixation relieves the restraining of N limitation to the marine primary production, and promotes the absorption of CO2. Therefore, their distribution and N fixation are paid more attention on the condition of global warming in recent years. We summarize the studies on Trichodesmium spp. in China marginal seas and other global seas/oceans, including population structure, distribution pattern, sampling methods, restriction factors, N fixation rate, and their contribution to primary/new production and N input, as well as their function in oceanic C and N biogeochemical cycles. Finally, we point out the future research directions in China marginal seas.