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Project

PhytoDive - Noctiluca

Holistic phytoplankton sampling approach

In the PhytoDive project, we are investigating the effects of the harmful algae species Noctiluca on the North Sea ecosystem.

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The methodological approach of the PhytoDive project: combining traditional methods (net, bottle and bucket sampling) with novel technologies such as flow-through microscopy (FlowCam), underwater cameras (CPICS, VPR), automated measurement systems (FerryBox) and remote sensing.

The PhytoDive project aims to generate new knowledge about the role of phytoplankton diversity and productivity in coastal carbon cycling and food web dynamics at a global scale using combined techniques such as remote sensing, underwater cameras and automated measurement systems. The application of a holistic sampling approach is essential for assessing the behavior of plankton in situ (feeding, reproduction, interaction…), as well as for understanding vertical and horizontal plankton bloom dynamics.

Harmful Algal Bloom Species Noctiluca scintillans

Embedded in the PhytoDive project, the Biological Carbon Pump Department carried out three cruises in summer 2022 around Helgoland (Germany). During these cruises, the dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans was blooming. This species is known as “trophic dead-end” and “food chain disruptor”, leading to reduced productivity and increased jellification in affected areas. For this reason it is also considered a harmful algae bloom species. The images recorded during these cruise with the CPICS (Continuous Plankton Imaging and Classification Sensor) and the Video Plankton Recorder (VPR) were analyzed with applied machine learning techniques and revealed in situ feeding strategies of N. scintillans, prey types, and interactions with other organisms at high resolution. This information is extremely valuable to expand the understanding about the functional role and the dynamics under future climate conditions of this potentially important dinoflagellate in the German Bight.

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N. scintillans bloom in June 2022 at different scales: from space (top left; Sentinel-2 satellite, Northeastern German Bight); from the research vessel Ludwig Prandtl (bottom left; Photo: Katharina Kordubel, Helgoland, Germany); and from underwater (right; CPICS, Helgoland, Germany).

Involved departments

Contact

Dr. Klas Ove Möller
Dr. Klas Ove Möller

Head of Department

Biological Carbon Pump

Phone: +49 (0)4152 87-2371

E-mail contact