Scope

Geobiology is emerging as a field of scientific inquiry from the recognition that biological, physical, and chemical processes at the surface and shallow subsurface of Earth are inextricably linked at all scales of space and time. Organisms affect and are affected by their natural environment through a multitude of feedbacks, and co-evolve with the environment in response to external forcing and internal dynamics of the Earth system. Practitioners include disciplinary scientists collaborating on interdisciplinary projects and the new breed of transdisciplinary scientists who are merging the scientific approaches of the disciplines to reveal heretofore unimagined connections between life and environment.

The Virtual Journal of Geobiology highlights selected articles appearing in 20 peer-reviewed journals published by Elsevier Science. Articles include those addressing:

Part 1: Geophysiology (Modern Processes)

A. Biota-Atmosphere Interactions (e.g., biogenic gases and climate)

B. Biota-Hydrosphere/Cryosphere Interactions (e.g., marine nutrient dynamics; extreme environments; biomineralization)

C. Biota-Soil/Sediment/Bedrock Interactions (e.g., biological weathering enhancement, deep biospheres; geomicrobiology)

Part 2: Evolution of Life and Environment

A. Development of the Biosphere (e.g., origin of life; establishment of biosphere)

B. Evolution of the Biosphere (e.g., rise of oxygen; Snowball Earth; environmental consequences of biological innovations)

C. Abrupt Events (e.g., extinctions, radiations, extreme environmental events)

Part 3: Geobiology of Global Change

A. Carbon Cycling and Sequestration

B. Global Change and Biota - Environment Interactions

C. Astrobiology