Researchers at GEOMAR have developed a model to track the global distribution of sulfur particles following large eruptions, providing more accurate estimates of eruption strength and tracing previously undetermined volcanic activities. The study improves the interpretation of volcanic traces in ice cores from Greenland and Antarctica.
Experiments show high sinking speed for dead gelatinous plankton species, contributing to the biological pump. Fast sinking provides high-quality food resources for benthic organisms and releases CO2 that can be stored without direct contact with the atmosphere.
A long-term mesocosm experiment off Sweden investigates the effects of ocean acidification on plankton communities, shedding light on their ability to adapt to new conditions. The study also explores the impact of ocean acidification on the development of fish at the base of the food web.
GEOMAR researchers have found evidence that climate change can trigger volcanic eruptions on a global scale. They discovered a pattern where periods of high volcanic activity followed rapid global temperature increases and associated ice melting. This discovery could provide new insights into the Earth's natural climate cycles.
A new study in Nature confirms an improved method for measuring nitrogen fixation in the ocean, revealing rates that are between 62 and 600 percent higher than previously measured. The findings leave a gap in the nitrogen budget due to incomplete knowledge of microorganisms responsible for these processes.
Biologists present a simple way to estimate maximum sustainable yield (MSY) using catch data and species resilience. The new method has been tested on 148 fish stocks with excellent agreement compared to traditional methods.
The Kiel Cluster of Excellence 'The Future Ocean' has secured funding for its second phase, focusing on natural resources, biological diversity, and gas exchange. This will enable the team to provide a scientific basis for sustainable ocean management and engage in dialogue with decision makers.
Researchers used sediment cores to study climate conditions during the Eemian period, which may not be a suitable analogue for current climate change. The Atlantic Ocean showed higher-than-Holocene temperature signals, while the Nordic Seas indicated cold conditions, suggesting a significant difference in oceanic circulation.
A team of researchers discovered that dolomite crystals form under specific conditions in biofilms created by marine bacteria. The study provides new insights into the reconstruction of fossil dolomite deposits and their connection to past environmental conditions.
MoLab measures biological, physical, chemical, or geological parameters over several months and square kilometers. The system investigates the impact of climate change on corals and their ecosystems.
A new transatlantic graduate school in ocean system science and technology is launched by German and Canadian researchers. The Helmholtz Research School will improve understanding of the ocean's responses to natural and human influences, with a focus on sustainable use of marine resources.