Advances in marine ecosystem modelling research.

Lead Research Organisation: Plymouth Marine Laboratory
Department Name: Plymouth Marine Lab

Abstract

Marine ecosystems are an important part of the earth system, the set of interlinked physical, chemical and biological processes that control our environment. Ecosystems are important not only to the biogeochemical cycles of the ocean and the life within it, but also to the atmosphere, in particular through greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and climatically active gases such as dimethyl sulphide (DMS). Knowledge of and a predictive capability for marine ecosystem processes is crucial to the ecosystem approach to marine management and sustainable fisheries management. We propose a programme of workshop activities aimed at helping the development of improved descriptions of marine ecology, suited for the next generation of both marine and Earth system models. We will compare and contrast approaches already under study in the UK, with those being implemented by the international community. Particular effort will be put into (1) The response of planktonic organisms to high levels of CO2, (2) the representation of plankton functional types for marine ecosystems, (3) bridging the gap between lower and higher trophic levels (4) biogas production in the upper ocean, (5) operational biophysical oceanography. Additionally we will organize an international symposium bringing together all aspects of marine ecosystem modelling. The programme takes advantage of an existing initiative, and will improve the links between the UK community and international interests in this area and making it more cohesive, coordinated and efficient in its exploitation of synergies.

Publications

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Fennel W (2010) A nutrient to fish model for the example of the Baltic Sea in Journal of Marine Systems

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Fulton E (2010) Approaches to end-to-end ecosystem models in Journal of Marine Systems

 
Description AMEMR continues to provide a forum for international marine ecosystem modelling community to meet and discuss progress in the field. The most recent meeting being in July 2014
First Year Of Impact 2010
Sector Environment
 
Description Advances in Marine Ecosystem Research Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact Expanded awareness of the current research and promoted collaboration

Improved awareness of research activities
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
 
Description Plenary talk at AMEMR 2014 on Plankton Biogeography on the NW European shelf 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact Well attended talk with stimulating discussions.

Potential applications of the presented methodology in various collaborations.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014