The “Plastification” of the Ocean
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 8 February 2022
A WWF and AWI study warns marine plastic pollution is rising rapidly, threatening ecosystems. Nearly 90% of species studied show harm. A global treaty is urgently needed to stop irreversible ocean damage before thresholds are exceeded.
Keywords: plastic crisis, environmental threshold, plastic lifecycle, marine protected areas, conservation policy
Giant sponge gardens discovered on seamounts in the Arctic deep sea
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 8 February 2022
Massive sponge gardens were discovered on Arctic seamounts, thriving on ancient organic remnants with help from microbial symbionts. This unique deep-sea ecosystem highlights the urgent need to understand and protect biodiversity in a warming Arctic.
Keywords: marine microbiology, organic detritus, POLARSTERN expedition, Nature Communications, Arctic conservation
Fish and squid found in the Central Arctic Ocean
Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI)
Published: 18 February 2022
Atlantic cod and squid were unexpectedly found in the Central Arctic Ocean, revealing a new top layer in the pelagic food web. Though no harvestable stocks exist, findings support strong international protection under a precautionary Arctic fishing ban.
Keywords: rctic biodiversity, deep scattering layer, Arctic fisheries, Science Advances, marine conservation
