This paper in the Ocean Science Jubilee Special Issue is a multidisciplinary review of silicon in the ocean (and in fact also in the earth system). It presents "everything you ever wanted to know about silicates but were afraid to ask". In addition to its scientific excellence and thoroughness as a review, it is also noteworthy for being entirely conceived and written by a group of early career researchers who decided to work together on this topic. We commend their initiative!

The study introduces an innovative method for estimating meridional heat transport (MHT) across latitudes. By combining diverse oceanographic approaches, including remote sensing (gravimetry, altimetry), in-situ observations, and advanced statistical modeling, the study bridges several domains of ocean science. It opens the door for things such as an improved estimation of ocean heat content, surface fluxes, sea level variability, currents and enhanced error characterization in satellite observations. The new method could serve as the foundation for alternative estimates of both MHT and the Atlantic Meriodional Circulation (AMOC) that do not depend on costly, geographically limited in-situ observing arrays, which is especially beneficial if it allows the AMOC to be observed across a range of latitudes.

The article provides critical observations relating to the Thwaites Eastern Ice Shelf and the modified Circumpolar Deep Water. The observed warming has important consequences for implied basal melting and can impact the stability of the ice shelf, with notable subsequent impacts, such as addition of mass into the ocean and thus implied sea level rise. The work calls for further efforts in constraining the uncertainties via a combination of observations, modelling and mechanistic understanding.

This study provides new insights into understanding the vertical structure of mesoscale eddies, furthering our knowledge of their role in ocean property transport