Breathing with Phytoplankton: Exploring Metabolic Connections with Oceanic Microbes

Anthea Oestreicher

About this exposition

This paper presents an exploration of the interconnectedness between vital metabolic processes of human respiration and phytoplankton photosynthesis. By weaving together ecological sciences with cultural anthropology, eco-feminism, environmental humanities, and artistic practices the paper delves into the intricate metabolic interplay between phytoplankton and humans. Grounded in the notion of "breathing-with," it navigates through physiological, biological, and sensorial dimensions to elucidate the profound connections between respiration and photosynthesis as metabolic media, fostering alliances in multispecies encounters. Drawing inspiration from the biological laboratory and the microscopic realm of chlorophyll-bearing organisms, the transformative power of photosynthesis in shaping the planetary atmosphere and sustaining life is highlighted. While underscoring the pivotal role of phytoplankton in oxygen production and carbon dioxide sequestration, it elucidates the challenges and synergistic impacts of oceanic oxygen depletion driven by anthropogenic activities. Beyond a mere metabolic function, breath emerges as a metaphorical interface for collective action and co-conspiracy, transcending boundaries between human and non-human entities. As such it advocates for a deeper engagement with planetary ecologies and a reimagining of our relationality with the more-than-human world. Through artistic inquiry and experimental methods, the paper invites readers to reflect on the profound implications of our interconnectedness with phytoplankton, urging a renewed commitment to symbiotic coexistence. In this sense, the act of breathing goes beyond its metabolic function, extending as a form of collective agency in confronting the challenges of an ever-changing world.

type	research exposition
keywords	Breathing-with, Phytoplankton-Human Interaction, sympoiesis, photosynthesis and respiration, Artistic Research, Anthropology beyond Human
date	09/05/2024
published	12/12/2024
last modified	12/12/2024
status	published
affiliation	ZHdK
copyright	Anthea Oestreicher
license	CC BY-NC-ND
language	English
url	https://www.researchcatalogue.net/view/2793701/2793702
published in	HUB - Journal of Research in Art, Design and Society
portal issue	3. HUB Issue #3 / Autumn 2024 / Metabolic Media
external link	antheaoestreicher.de

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name	Phytoplankton/Diatom
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name	Respiration and Photosynthesis
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name	Element 3
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name	cycle for breathing together
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name	icant breathe vs co2table
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name	Cycles in the Biosphere
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name	Sympoietic network
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name	from reactor to scuba
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name	from mitochondria to chloroplast
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Breathing with Phytoplankton: Exploring Metabolic Connections with Oceanic Microbes (2024)

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