Researchers introduced the 'circular seabird economy' concept, emphasizing seabirds' role in nutrient transfer between ocean and land, which is crucial for ecosystem health.

In a recent review published in Nature, researchers have coined the term 'circular seabird economy' to describe the critical role seabirds play in transferring nutrients from marine to terrestrial ecosystems. Seabirds, which return to land to breed, bring with them guano, feathers, and eggshells that enrich the soil with essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. This nutrient influx is vital for supporting plant communities and, consequently, diverse insect and animal populations. In regions like Antarctica, seabirds contribute over 80% of the nutrients available to ecosystems. The study also highlights the reciprocal nature of nutrient flow, with healthier seabird populations leading to improved marine environments. However, nearly one-third of seabird species are at risk due to threats such as invasive species, bycatch, and climate change. The researchers advocate for seabird conservation as a means to enhance ecosystem recovery and resilience.