Glossary

"Using the right word, the right idea, the right concept, with the most commonly accepted definition, or even better, with the best accepted and understood definition, can sometimes be a feat...”

Patrick Triplet

> With this quote, we wish to pay tribute to the colosal work of this biologist, and doctor of ecology whose great oeuvre, Dictionnaire encyclopédique de la diversité biologique et de la conservation de la nature (The Encyclopaedic Dictionary of Biological Diversity and Nature Conservation) ─ compiled over the course of more than ten years ─ is the basis of many of the definitions found in this glossary. Indeed, it is by using a language with precise words and clearly defined concepts that everyone and anyone can approach and understand fields of study that may not necessarily be within their own expertise.

This glossary of over 6,000 definitions, written in French with corresponding English translations, is here to help you. It covers the complementary fields of Geography, Ecology, and Economics, without forgetting a small detour into the world of Finance, which of course regulates a large part of our existence.

Travelling from one definition to another, this glossary invites you to explore the rich world of conservation and to understand its mechanisms and challenges.

We wish you all : "Happy reading and a safe journey through our world".

Pompe biologique

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Glossaries

Term Definition
Pompe biologique

♦ En biogéochimie océanique, la pompe biologique est la somme des processus biologiques qui transportent le carbone de la surface vers l'intérieur des océans. Ainsi les algues microscopiques, ou phytoplancton en suspension dans les eaux de surface éclairées (appelées zone euphotique) consomment du CO2 dissous. Le carbone fixé entre dans la chaîne alimentaire et va par la suite être entraîné en profondeur. Il en résulte un flux de carbone de la surface vers les profondeurs. Le phytoplancton joue ainsi un rôle de pompe à carbone.
♦ Équivalent étranger : Biological pump.