Eukaryotes from the (not so) frozen Arctic!

Although very small, protists importance cannot be understated. These guys are the starters of the food chain and are even responsible for the world’s highest oxygen production. In this talk you will learn about a time series station that has been run in front of the Svalbard airport for almost 10 years now, and understand how changing climate can influence their presence.

Care about the small things

What to you see when you look at sea ice? A vastness of flat white? A place mostly devoid of life? A cute seal? Polar bear tracks? Would you believe me if I told you that right underneath your feet, your skis, your scooter is a whole ecosystem? A community that is alien-like and highly important to the rest of the Arctic marine ecosystem. Small, but mighty creatures that will open your eyes to a whole new world.

Remote vehicles vs Climate Change

Climate change in the Arctic is leading to declining sea-ice and sea-terminating glaciers, and this is affecting the ecosystems in littoral fjord areas in Svalbard. Retreating glaciers are opening up new areas that haven't been studied before, and that are too difficult or dangerous for people to reach. In this talk we will go through how we are using remote vehicles to survey these areas and study how macroalgae and fish are responding to environmental changes.