Ocean biological carbon pump: The evolution and prospects

As one of the primary pathways for atmospheric CO 2 sequestration, the marine ecosystem absorbs approximately the same amount of CO 2 as terrestrial ecosystems. This process is mainly driven by the biological activities of marine organisms, which help move CO 2 from the atmosphere into the deep ocean. In order to systematically sort out the relevant research viewpoints and development trends, this review first conducted a bibliometric analysis using the CiteSpace software to describe the distribution of national publications related to the " Ocean Biological Carbon Pump " (OBCP), the author collaboration network, and the keyword explosion situation. Subsequently, the historical development of OBCP is outlined, progressing from the classical three-component model of vertical carbon export—comprising the solubility, carbonate, and biological pumps—to more recent conceptualizations such as the microbiome carbon pump. Then, models employed in recent studies to investigate the internal mechanisms of OBCP are summarized, along with evaluations of their respective advantages and limitations. Finally, two major research frontiers in the field of OBCP are identified, and future research directions are proposed. This synthesis aims to enhance comprehension of how OBCP research has evolved and its status over the last twenty years, providing a reference for further in-depth investigation. • A bibliometric analysis of the Ocean Biological Carbon Pump (OBCP) using CiteSpace reveals the evolution of research themes, national contributions, and author collaboration networks over the past two decades. • The conceptual framework of OBCP has progressed from the classical three-component vertical carbon export model to emerging paradigms such as the microbiome carbon pump. • Key modeling approaches for investigating OBCP internal mechanisms are critically evaluated, highlighting their strengths and limitations. • Two major research frontiers are identified, along with future directions to advance understanding of marine carbon sequestration.