Biological Oceanography (BIO) focuses its research on the planktonic food web structure and dynamics comprising phytoplankton, prokaryotes, micro- and mesozooplankton and viruses. Planktonic food webs and particularly the interactions between the individual functional groups within the food webs are the main driving forces of oceanic biogeochemical fluxes. The research performed in BIO ranges from autecological to food web studies including a modelling component. Research is conducted under controlled laboratory conditions and at sea.

 

Three major research themes are currently addressed:

 

1.       Planktonic activity as the major driver of the upper ocean biogeochemistry.

2.       Ecology of harmful algal blooms and invasive species

3.       Functional stability and phylogenetic diversity of plankton systems

4.       Implementation of methods and regulations to deminish the introduction of invasive species from ballast water of ships