The stimulation of the biological pump by iron-bearing dust in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean significantly impacts long-term carbon sequestration. This study integrates proxies of dust input, source-region weathering, and biological pump activity from late Eocene to early Miocene sediments. Intensified chemical weathering in the large central Asian dust source region enhanced atmospheric CO₂ removal around 34 million years ago (Ma). Dust fertilization and biological pump action amplified this CO₂ removal before 34 Ma, while weakening after 34 Ma moderated the CO₂ decline. The interplay of these processes highlights the complexity of carbon cycle feedbacks during major climate changes.

Dunfan Wang, Andrew P. Roberts, Eelco J. Rohling, Weiqi Yao, Yi Zhong, Zhengquan Yao, Yang Lu, Qingsong Liu