IOW Annual Report 2024

ANNUAL REPORT 2024

Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde

MISSION & VISION

“Our mission is to understand the coastal seas with a holistic approach, and through scientific knowledge, innovative methods and the dialogue with society to contribute to solve regional and global societal challenges”

FROM THE IOW‘S MISSION STATEMENT

FOREWORD

I am pleased to present this annual report, which provides a concise overview of the work carried out by the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) in 2024. After a period of biennial reports, we are now returning to an annual format in order to provide more up-to-date, continuous and detailed coverage of developments.

The reporting year 2024 began with the new IOW research programme “Perspectives of Coastal Seas”, set to run for ten years. It ties together scientific work in three interdisciplinary areas: research of Key Processes Across Scales and Boundaries, Coastal Seas in Transition, and the development and application of Emerging Technologies in Coastal Research. This allows us to create a clear thematic focus and link basic research with issues that are equally relevant to society, the economy and the environment. In 2024, we introduced the Baltic Challenges as a new flexible instrument. These enable us to quickly and coordinately address arising topics of high importance for the Baltic Sea within the research areas.

A particular focus lies on the so called “Sondertatbestand” Shallow Water Processes (S2B – shore to basin), which has been funded since 2023. In 2024, seminars, research trips and workshops were held on this topic, first publications were released and qualification work was started. The first results confirm the central role of dynamic, land-influenced processes in understanding the Baltic Sea.

Our long-term observation and monitoring on behalf of the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) has also been restructured. This will improve the coordination of work within the framework of the Helsinki Convention (HELCOM). During the EMB 340 expedition with our research vessel Elisabeth Mann Borgese, we were able to expand the observation area to the Gulf of Bothnia.

In 2024, the IOW managed to raise funds for numerous new projects – ranging from baseline studies to international collaborative projects. A selection of projects can be found in the chapter “New Projects” and a complete list of all projects worked on in 2024 can be found in the appendix. A total of 166 articles were published in peer-reviewed journals, including highly acclaimed interdisciplinary studies such as the discovery of suspected hunting structures in the Baltic Sea region, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). For more details on this, please refer to the chapter “Research Highlights”. In addition, our scientists received several awards and prizes.

International networking was further expanded through workshops with partners from Germany and abroad and through active participation in conferences, such as the Baltic Earth Conference in Jurmala (Latvia). Dialogue with the public, practitioners and policy makers is of importance for us. For this reason,

several events for the public were held or resumed in 2024. Particularly noteworthy are the Open Ship event on the two research vessels Maria S. Merian and Elisabeth Mann Borgese, our participation in the Long Night of Science, and the resumption of the “Warnemünder Abende”.

The IOW can thus look back on a strong and successful year in terms of content– with scientific advances, new collaborations, and intensive exchange far beyond the research community. I invite you to discover for yourself on the following pages what moved us in 2024.

Sincerely,

OLIVER ZIELINSKI DIRECTOR

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

At the IOW, the four departments “Marine Geology”, “Marine Chemistry”, “Biological Oceanography” and “Physical Oceanography” and the newly formed research unit “Marine Observation” are working on an interdisciplinary basis on the 10-year research programme “Perspectives of Coastal Seas” (2024–2033). Their research activities are grouped into three research areas (RAs): RA 1 focuses on key processes across scales and boundaries, RA 2 on coastal seas in transitionand RA 3 on emerging technologies in coastal research.

RP

RESEARCH PROGRAMME: “PERSPECTIVES OF COASTAL SEAS” (2024–2033)

Our new research programme “Perspectives of Coastal Seas”(2024–2033) is organized into three research areas (RAs) (see figure), which address open questions in the areas of “Key Processes across Scales and Boundaries” (RA 1), “Coastal Seas in Transition” (RA 2) and “Emerging Technologies in Coastal Research” (RA 3). An important innovation compared to the previous programme is the additional focus on shallow water processes between the coastline and a water depth of approximately 10–20 m. All scientific and technical staff involved in the development of the measurement strategies and technological equipment required for coastal ocean observation are grouped

together in the newly established research unit “Marine Observations” (OBS). The overall structure of the 10-year IOW research programme follows the well proven matrix concept, in which all departments and the new OBS research unit contribute to the three research areas. As a new instrument for addressing specific topics in an agile manner and within shorter time frames, we are introducing the so-called Baltic Challenges. They bring together research activities within the three research areas that facilitate progress on emerging and socially relevant topics of importance to the Baltic Sea.

RESEARCH AREAS

KEY PROCESSES ACROSS SCALES AND BOUNDARIES

SUBAREAS

COASTAL SEAS IN TRANSITION EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN COASTAL RESEARCH

Hydrodynamic Impact The Present State of the Baltic Sea System New technologies for marine observation

Biogeochemical Cycles Reconstruction of Past Ecosystems Model development

Dynamics of Biological Processes

Shaping the Coastal Sea’s Future Data integration

Future Projections under Changing Climate and Human impact

FULLY INTEGRATED

S2B* “SHALLOW WATER PROCESSES AND TRANSITIONS TO THE BALTIC SCALE”

STATUS: 16.10.2024 *Shore to Basin

SEKTIONEN

MARINE GEOLOGY (GEO)

MARINE CHEMISTRY (CHE)

BIOLOGICAL OCEANOGRAPHY (BIO)

PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY (PHY)

RESEARCH UNITS

COASTAL SEA: MANAGEMENT AND PLANNING

MARINE OBSERVATIONS (OBS)

RESEARCH AREA 1 – “KEY PROCESSES ACROSS SCALES AND BOUNDARIES”

Understanding how marine systems such as the Baltic Sea function – and how to preserve their ecosystems – requires precise observations and a detailed understanding of processes operating across different spatial and temporal scales. Processes that span system boundaries and several orders of magnitude are particularly challenging, necessitating cross-disciplinary expertise and collaborative research to addres current scientific questions.

ENERGY CRISIS FOR COD AND CO.: HOW OVERFERTILISATION AND CLIMATE CHANGE ARE CHANGING THE FOOD

CWEB IN THE BALTIC SEA

od stocks in the Baltic Sea have been in crisis for years. Despite historically low fishing pressure the stock is not recovering. Until now, there has been no conclusive explanation for this. Researchers at the IOW and the Thünen Institute of Baltic Sea Fisheries have now been able to prove for the first time that in Baltic Sea areas with large-scale blooms of filamentous bluegreen algae, increasingly common due to eutrophication and climate change, the food web for cod has lengthened. As a result, significantly less energy is available to the cod population than in areas without blue-green algae blooms. Unless the nutrient regime improves, cod in the Baltic Sea will not be able to recover.

Marine phytoplankton is the energy supplier for all marine ecosystems: these tiny plants floating in seawater use photosynthesis to bind energy in the form of biomass, which is then passed on step by step in the marine food webs to different species of fish and fisheating species. The amount of energy that reaches the different organisms depends on the position they occupy in the food web. It is known that around 90 per cent of the energy is lost as heat from one level to the next. The more levels a food web has, the less energy reaches the organisms at the top, such as predatory fish.

In the Baltic Sea, excess nutrients entering through surface runoff and rivers (86) of which originate from agriculture promote cyanobacteria blooms that would not occur naturally at such levels. Other microalgae species are displaced by them. Due to their shape and size, filamentous blue-green algae cannot be eaten by small crustaceans, which are an important food source in marine food webs. Instead of eating a vegetarian diet, the smallcrustaceans eat microbes/bacteria that feed on excrement or decomposition products from bluegreen algae.

This creates a whole additional level in the food web, which inevitably leads to high energy loss in animals further down the food chain.

“This type of food web extension in fish has been discussed theoretically for some time. We can now measure it directly for

“This type of food web extension in fish has been discussed theoretically for some time. We can now measure it directly for the first time and clearly assign it to the blue-green algae-dominated food web.”

DR. NATALIE LOICK–WILDE

the first time and clearly attribute it to the blue-green algae-dominated food web,” says Natalie Loick-Wilde. She has established one of the few marine research laboratories in the world at the IOW, where stable isotopes of nitrogen in 13 different amino acids are measured for this purpose. For cod from the central Baltic Sea, her former PhD student Markus Steinkopf determined trophic positions between 4.8 and 5.2, instead of 4.1 as in healthy food webs. This indicates an energy loss of 60 to 99 per cent, because zooplankton is supposed to feed small organisms and fish in large numbers, but is very depleted due to poor nutrition. This also limits the food available for cod – formerly the most important fish in the Baltic Sea from a fisheries perspective. This energy crisis affecting Baltic Sea cod shows that restrictions on fishing are no longer sufficient for stock recovery alone. Rather, the food web itself must be restored. However, this can only be achieved if all possibilities are exploited across border get the overfertilization under control. Nutrient input from agriculture has led to this situation. Natalie Loick-Wilde sums it up: “People usually only notice that something fundamental has changed in the ecosystem when 90 per cent of the energy no longer reaches the end of the food chain, but only ten per cent. Then entire fisheries, such as cod fishing in the Baltic Sea

or smelt fishing in the tidal Elbe, collapse. The trophic position of key species offers a new gold standard for determining the health of food webs in aquatic ecosystems.” The study was funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) as part of the BluEs project (short for: Blue_Estuaries – Sustainable Estuary Development under Climate Change and Other Stressors).

CONTCAT PERSON

Dr. Natalie Loick–Wilde

PUBLICATION

Steinkopf, M., U. Krumme, D. Schulz-Bull, D. Wodarg and N. Loick-Wilde (2024): Trophic lengthening triggered by filamentous, N2-fixing cyanobacteria disrupts pelagic but not benthic food webs in a large estuarine ecosystem, Ecology and Evolution. doi.org/10.1002/ece3.11048

To ensure that computer simulations adequately reflect reality, comparative measurements are necessary on site, such as here near the mouth of the Elbe in the German Bight.

© Holtermann, IOW

SALT, BRACKISH, FRESH: HOW CIRCULATION AND MIXING DETERMINE THE EXCHANGE BETWEEN THE SEA AND THE COAST

Estuaries, i.e. bodies of water such as river mouths, where fresh water from the land meets salt water from the sea, play an important role in the coastal habitat. They serve, for example, as nurseries for fish, transport sediments from the land to the coast and can regulate the influx of nutrients and pollutants like a filter. Their dynamics are determined by the differences in density between fresh and salt water: the denser salt water from the sea flows upstream at the bottom, i.e. towards the land. Above it, less dense fresh water flows seaward, gradually mixing with the salt water below and thus leading to a brackish outflow into the sea. In the Warnow, which flows into the tide-free Baltic Sea, we can observe this so-called estuarine circulation directly, whereas in waters influenced by tides, such as the Elbe estuary or the Chinese Pearl River estuary, it only becomes visible after an averaging about the tides.

Whether with or without tides, it is estuarine circulation that regulates transport processes in estuaries. In order to understand how sediments, nutrients and pollutants, but also fish larvae and plankton are distributed in estuaries, we must therefore understand

estuarine beeinflussen. Circulation and understanding the factors that influence it. The time, place and mechanics of the mixing of fresh and salt water to form brackish water play a key role here, because if the two water masses do not mix, there is no circulation and no exchange between the estuary and the sea.

In order to investigate the relationship between mixing and estuarine circulation, variables such as salinity, currents and turbulence – which causes mixing – must be known in high temporal and spatial resolution. Since measurements alone cannot meet this requirement, researchers from the “Processes in Estuaries and Coastal Seas” working group at the IOW used highresolution computer simulations of the Warnow, Elbe and Pearl River to create maps showing where water exchange with the sea takes place in the estuary. It was found that this has a two-layer structure: on each area of constant salinity (i.e. “isohaline”), there is an inflow towards land near the bottom, in the upstream part of this area. At the other end, i.e. seaward near the surface, water flows through the iso-haline towards the sea.

The water exchange through individual iso-halines, which is closely related to mixing, thus has the same structure as the estuarine circulation described above, which covers the entire body of water, and could now be directly related to it by deriving a mathematical equation. However, the maps also show that the water exchange is not equally strong everywhere. There are regions where it is increased, which is directly related to topographical features. In the Elbe, for example, these are the turbulent edges of the shipping channel, which mix particularly effectively.

The Baltic Sea, with its many freshwater sources and salty inflows from the North Sea, can also be understood as an estuary, for which the spatial structure of water exchange has also been demonstrated. Here, hotspots were found along the boundaries of the individual basins and around islands.

Current work by the research group is now using the knowledge gained to identify individual processes of local mixing underlying estuarine circulation, such as the specific mechanisms along the Elbe shipping channel.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Lloyd Reese

PUBLICATION

Reese, L., U. Gräwe, K. Klingbeil, X. Li, M. Lorenz and H. Burchard (2024). Local mixing determines spatial structure of diahaline exchange flow in a mesotidal estuary: A study of extreme runoff conditions. J. Phys. Oceanogr. 54: 3-27, doi: 10.1175/

JPO-D-23-0052.1

Longitudinal section through an estuary (sea on the left, river on the right). The arrows represent the estuarine circulation, in which the inflowing salt water (magenta) mixes with the fresh water (blue) and leads to a brackish outflow.

© Reese, IOW

RESEARCH AREA 2 –“COASTAL SEAS IN TRANSITION”

Only when we understand the natural variability of our coastal seas and all its implications can we identify the changes caused by humans. We conduct interdisciplinary research to understand the current state of the Baltic Sea and reconstruct past ecosystem conditions, and we make projections for the future under changing climate conditions and human influence. As actors with the tools to restore a good ecological status, humans must shape the future of the coastal sea.

TRACES OF ICE AGE HUNTERS DISCOVERED IN THE BALTIC SEA

The research team actually wanted to investigate manganese crusts on a marl ridge about 10 km before Rerik at the bottom of the Bay of Mecklenburg. They noticed a 970 m long, regular stone structure. It consists of up to 1,500 tennis ball to football-sized stones, which connect several large boulders to form a wall up to 1 m high. The Baltic Sea is now 21 metres deep at the site of the discovery. The stone wall must therefore have been erected before the water level rose sharply after the end of the last ice age. This last happened around 8,500 years ago. Scientists from the IOW, the interdisciplinary Kiel Marine Science at Kiel University,

the University of Rostock, the Centre for Baltic and Scandinavian Archaeology in Schleswig at the Leibniz Centre for Archaeology (LEIZA-ZSBA), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), the Alfred Wegner Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI) and the State Office for Culture and Monument Preservation (LAKD) Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania have used modern geophysical methods to create a detailed 3D model of the wall and reconstructed the structure of the surrounding subsoil. Sediment samples from the basin to the south provided evidence of the possible age of the linear structure. “The investigations have confirmed that a natural origin is just as unlikely as a deliberate construction in modern times, for example through construction work to lay submarine cables or stone fishing. The stones are too methodically and regularly arranged for that,” explains Dr. Jacob Geersen.

“The investigations have confirmed that a natural origin is just as unlikely as a construction in modern times[...]”

DR. JACOB GEERSEN

3D model of a section of the stone wall (scale, bottom edge of image: 50 cm). The tennis ball to football-sized stones that form the approximately 1 km long wall are clearly visible. @ Auer, LAKD M-V

Graphical reconstruction of the stone wall discovered at the bottom of the Baltic Sea as a a drive hunting structure, based on bathymetric data and an underwater 3D model © Grabowski

If we rule out natural or modern origins, the only possible time for the construction of the stone wall is after the end of the last ice age (about 12,000 years ago), when the landscape was not yet flooded by the Baltic Sea. “The wall probably served to corner the reindeer at the edge of a lake so that they could be killed by Stone Age hunters with hunting weapons”, explains Dr. Marcel Bradtmöller from the University of Rostock. Around 11,000 years ago, as the climate warmed and forests spread, the last reindeer and the last migratory. As herd animals disappeared from our latitudes, the stone wall cannot have been erected after this date. This would make the stone wall the oldest human structure ever discovered in the Baltic Sea.

The stone row discovered in 2021 is now the starting point for further research. Based on the site in Mecklenburg Bay, geophysical, geological and underwater archaeological logical investigations reconstructed the environmental conditions of that time and addressed the question of human origin and cultural function. This facility will help to clarify these questions. However, potential megastructures in the Flensburg Fjord and Fehmarn Sound, which have hardly been

scientifically explored to date, will also be analysed in detail using high-resolution mapping. The aim is to reconstruct a more comprehensive picture of the formerly terrestrial cultural landscapes at the bottom of today’s Baltic Sea, thereby gaining new insights into the way of life of early Stone Age hunters and gatherers and opening up new perspectives on the early historical development of Northern Europe.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Jacob Geersen

PUBLICATION

Geersen, J., M. Bradtmöller, J. Schneider von Deimling, P. Feldens, J. Auer, P. Held, A. Lohrberg, R. Supka, J. J. L. Hoffmann, B. V. Eriksen , W. Rabbel , H.-J. Karlsen, S. Krastel, D. Brandt, D. Heuskin and H. Lübke (2024): A submerged Stone Age hunting architecture from the Western Baltic Sea Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences: doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2312008121

MARINE HEAT WAVES IN THE BALTIC SEA: CAUSES AND EFFECTS

It is becoming clearer than ever that the climate is continuing to heat up. Global warming is affecting the oceans, and the Baltic Sea in particular, with a warming of more than 1 °C over the last three and a half decades, is one of the fastest warming marine regions in the world. In addition to general ocean warming, marine heatwaves are causing problems for marine ecosystems. These are temporary periods during which the temperature of the upper layers of seawater exceeds a threshold typical for the respective region and season for at least five days. Over the last century, such heatwaves have been recorded more frequently worldwide: an international study shows that they have been occurring more often and lasting longer since 1925, leading to over 50 per cent more marine heatwave days per year in some areas.

In order to understand the occurrence of heat waves in marginal and inland seas in general, and in the Baltic Sea in particular, an IOW research team led by Baltic Sea climate experts Matthias Gröger and Markus Meier evaluated enormous meteorological data sets spanning more than three decades. In doing so, they identi-

fied anomalies in the large-scale air pressure patterns and wind systems over the North Atlantic and Europe that lead to heat waves in the Baltic Sea. During the summer months, it is the stable high-pressure systems over Scandinavia that cause the heat waves – not only due to strong solar radiation and high air temperatures, but above all due to the exceptionally weak winds under such conditions. The latter prevents the increasingly warm surface water from mixing with cold water from the depths, causing the heat to accumulate in the upper water layers. But heat waves are also possible in the Baltic Sea in winter. They occur whenever prolonged strong westerly winds transport warm, moist air masses from the Atlantic to Europe, causing the Baltic Sea to cool less than usual for this time of year. The data evaluated in the study between 1980 and 2016 also show that both summer and winter heat waves in the Baltic Sea are becoming more frequent, lasting longer and affecting increasingly larger areas.

Average annual surface extent of marine heatwaves in the Baltic Sea. Yellow: moderate heatwaves. Red: severe heatwaves. @ IOW

Another study by the IOW shows that heat waves can have a concrete impact on vital environmental parameters. To this end, researchers analysed model data from five decades (1970 to 2020). For the first time, they also investigated the extent to which summer heat waves spread into the depths, with a particular focus on the shallow coastal areas of the Baltic Sea, which are actually considered to be permanently well “aerated” and therefore robust against oxygen deficits. The results of this study were surprising and alarming. They show that summer heat waves often penetrate to a water depth of about 20 metres to the sea floor, where they locally reduce the oxygen content of the water. Summer oxygen concentrations can generally be very low at the sea floor in coastal areas and now sometimes fall below 2 ml/litre, a critical threshold below which life is no longer possible for many higher organisms such as mussels, worms, crabs and fish. As the Baltic Sea is one of the fastest warming regions of the world‘s oceans, there is a high risk that marine heat waves, together with further climate warming, will

a) air pressure anomaly during marine heat waves during the summer months (June-October) @ IOW

b) air pressure anomaly during marine heat waves during the winter months (December-March) @ IOW

increasingly cause critical oxygen deficits for bottom fauna, with farreaching consequences for the entire ecosystem.

CONTACT PERSONS

Prof. Dr. Markus Meier, Dr. Matthias Gröger

PUBLICATIONS

Gröger, M., C. Dutheil, F. Börgel and H. E. M. Meier (2024): Drivers of marine heatwaves in a stratified marginal sea. Climate Dynamics 7062, DOI:10.1007/s00382-023-07062-5

Safonova, K., H. E. M. Meier and M. Gröger (2024): Summer heatwaves on the Baltic Sea seabed contribute to oxygen deficiency in shallow areas. Commun Earth Environ 5, 106. doi. org/10.1038/s43247-024-01268-z

RESEARCH AREA 3 –“EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN COASTAL RESEARCH”

Innovative technologies are a driving force for future-oriented science. New ways of linking diverse research data, increasing computing power, new molecular biology approaches, and the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyse big data all confirm the importance of methodological research for environmental and marine sciences. With the potential of new technologies to enable cutting-edge research, the IOW strives to drive social change towards sustainability. In this context, two new working groups, “Bioinformatics and omics data science” and “Integrated Optical Remote Sensing,” were established in 2024.

REDUCING ALGAL BLOOMS LEADS TO A DECREASE IN PATHOGENIC VIBRIO IN THE BALTIC SEA

Climate change is leading to increased proliferation of the pathogenic bacterium Vibrio vulnificus on brackish water coasts. V. vulnificus infections are often fatal, posing a serious threat to public health and offshore aquaculture and potentially damaging tourism.

As part of the project led by Prof. Dr. Matthias Labrenz (head of the working group Environmental Microbiology at the IOW) the EU project “Pathogenic Vibrio bacteria in the current and future waters of the Baltic Sea: Mitigating the Problem” (BaltVib) investigated whether previously proposed regulatory measures to reduce the occurrence of V. vulnificus, such as the renaturation of seagrass beds, could also be applied to the Baltic Sea. The research team consisted of experts from various research institutions in the Baltic Sea coastal states of Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Lithuania and Poland, who jointly developed strategies to reduce health risks and protect marine ecosystems.

In the summer of 2021, a team of researchers led by Prof. Dr. Matthias Labrenz and his doctoral student David Riedinger took field samples inside and outside seagrass beds, along the salinity and nutrient gradients of the Baltic Sea, one of the largest brackish water areas in the world. Physical, biological and hydrochemical parameters were measured. Machine learning was then used to identify the variables that explain the occurrence of V. vulnificus. The best predictive variables for V. vulnificus were eutrophication-related characteristics such as particulate organic carbon and nitrogen, as well as the occurrence of potential algal blooms and associated species. Surprisingly, the occurrence of V. vulnificus did not vary significantly between seagrass beds and seagrass-free areas. These results suggest that further reduction of nutrient inputs into the Baltic Sea is an effective method of controlling the V. vulnificus populations on nutrient-rich brackish water coasts. This study (Riedinger et al. 2024) thus

provided a scientific basis for future regulatory strategies (see figure) that not only protect public health but also minimise ecological and economic consequences.

The BaltVib project was funded by the European Union as part of the BiodivERsA funding programme for three years until spring 2024 and aimed to investigate the spread and control of the pathogenic bacterium Vibrio vulnificus in the Baltic Sea.

Schematic overview of the ways in which eutrophication affects the proliferation of V. vulificus. The inflow of inorganic nutrients from land induces algal blooms, which provide the organic material needed for the reproduction of V. vulificus and also offer protection from bacterivorous plankton. Organisms that are thought to play a key role in this process are named and potential interactions are indicated by arrows.

© Riedinger, IOW

CONTACT PERSON

Prof. Dr. Matthias Labrenz

PUBLICATION

Riedinger, D. J., V. Fernández-Juárez, L. F. Delgado, T. Sperlea, C. Hassenrück, D. P. R. Herlemann, C. Pansch, M. Kataržytė, F. Bruck, A. Ahrens, M. Rakowski, K. Piwosz, A. Stevenson, T. B. H. Reusch, G. Gyraitė, D. Schulz-Bull, H. BenterbuschBrockmöller, S. Kube, S. Dupke, A. F. Andersson, L. Riemann and M. Labrenz (2024). Control of Vibrio vulnificus proliferation in the Baltic Sea through eutrophication and algal bloom management. Commun. Earth Environ. 5: 246, doi: 10.1038/s43247-02401410-x

Bloom forming organisms

Ceramium

Synechocccos

Cyanobium

Parasites

Aplanochytrium

Rhizophydium

Actinobacteria

Condidatus aquiluna

ML602J-51

Nocardiodes

Nurtient flux

Predators

Thaumatomastix

Apusomonadidae_Group-1

Teleaulax

LNA cells

POC + PON + DOC + DON

PROGRESS IN NUMERICAL MODELLING ENABLES MORE ACCURATE PROJECTIONS

With the continuous development of internationally used models for ocean turbulence (GOTM, gotm.net), ecosystems (ERGOM, ergom.net) and hydrodynamics (GETM, getm.eu), the IOW is laying the foundation for its expertise in regional ocean modelling and for a large number of publications based on this expertise. Model development is not only a service for research and society, but also represents an independent scientific discipline. In 2024, the IOW successfully completed decisive development work and published it in renowned scientific journals.

Developed for regional climate studies Dr. Sven Karsten from the working group “Dynamics of Regional Climate Systems” and colleagues have developed a coupled Earth system model, the core of which is a novel component for the modular coupling of models for the ocean, sea ice, waves and atmosphere (Karsten et al. 2024). The coupling component enables the consistent calculation of mass, momentum and heat fluxes between the ocean and atmosphere on a high-resolution exchange grid, thus providing more realistic regional climate projections (see grid figure).

Furthermore, as part of the DFG Collaborative Research Centre TRR 181 on energy transfer in the atmosphere and ocean, the IOW is leading several subprojects aimed at improving the energetic consistency of ocean models. In particular, the IOW shares its expertise in the development of numerical methods for hydrodynamic model cores. In this field of research, Dr. Knut Klingbeil from the working group “Processes in Estuaries and Coastal Seas”, together with

colleagues from the Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI), significantly improve the national climate model FESOM. A new solution algorithm with higher accuracy and better performance (Banerjee et al. 2024, GMD) and a new analysis method for quantifying false mixing and water mass transformation in ocean models (Banerjee et al. 2024, OCEMOD) were implemented.

CONTACT PERSONS

Dr. Sven Karsten, Dr. Knut Klingbeil

PUBLICATIONS

Karsten, S., H. Radtke, M. Gröger, H. T. M. Ho-Hagemann, H. Mashayekh, T. Neumann and H. E. M. Meier (2024). Flux coupling approach on an exchange grid for the IOW Earth System Model (version 1.04.00) of the Baltic Sea region. Geosci. Model Dev. 17: 1689-1708, doi: 10.5194/ gmd-17-1689-2024.

Banerjee, T., S. Danilov, K. Klingbeil and J.-M. Campin (2024). Discrete variance decay analysis of spurious mixing. Ocean Model. 192: 102460, doi: 10.1016/j.ocemod.2024.102460

Banerjee, T., P. Scholz, S. Danilov, K. Klingbeil and D. Sidorenko (2024). Split-explicit external mode solver in the finite volume sea ice–ocean model FESOM2. Geosci. Model Dev. 17: 7051-7065, doi: 10.5194/gmd-17-7051-2024

A fundamental problem with regional Earth system models is the different grid resolutions of the model components (atmosphere, ocean, land, ice, etc.), which must be coupled in order to communicate their respective states with each other and calculate flows realistically. © Source: https://gmd.copernicus. org/articles/17/1689/2024/.

S2B

RESEARCH FOCUS –“SHALLOW WATER PROCESSES”

With the research focus established in 2023 as a “small institute expansion”, the IOW’s research portfolio will be expanded to include shallow water processes and their relevance for the entire Baltic Sea. The research work, summarised under the title “Shallow Water Processes and Transitions to the Baltic Scale” (S2B = “shore to basin” for short), will be integrated into all three research areas of the IOW research programme and focuses on the hitherto little-studied area of the interface between land and sea.

TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT AND SAMPLING IN SHALLOW WATER AREAS

TThe launch of the new research focus into its first full year of operation has been successful and multifaceted. Seminars, excursions, workshops and extensive planning have been carried out. The new employees have successfully acquired projects, and master’s and doctoral theses have been started. Initial results confirm the expectation of dynamic and landinfluenced processes.

The new research focus started with an official kick-off meeting at the IOW on 22 January 2024. A new series of lectures organised by S2B was established, taking place on the first Monday of every month with guest speakers or internal reports from employees. In addition, there were monthly sampling trips to the Nienhagen reef off the coast of the Baltic Sea resort of Nienhagen near Rostock, as well as numerous discussions on the development of suitable technology for shallow water areas: for example, an anchorage for shallow water with mea-

suring probes at very close intervals of 3-4 metres and tests and commissioning of the complex systems of the imaging flow cytometer for phytoplankton detection (Imaging Flow Cytobot, IFC) and the Edna sampler for automated sampling genetic material were implemented. Regular support from the diving group was instrumental in obtaining sediment samples and deploying the landers at the Nienhagen reef.

At the same time, the biogeochemical modelling group began setting up initial sensitivity experiments on the role of coasts in a coarseresolution ocean model and developing the ROBOELF model infrastructure, which will make it possible for the first time to carry out parameter studies of complex biogeochemical models in large numbers using graphical processing units (GPUs).

© Holtermann,

Participants in the stakeholder workshop on 13 November 2024 in the IOW hall.

© von Thenen, IOW

STAKEHOLDER-WORKSHOP

One of the goals of S2B is to make the results usable in practice. For this reason, stakeholder workshops have been held from the outset. The first took place on 13 November 2024 on the topic of “Challenges in shallow coastal waters”. Representatives from state offices and authorities, the scientific community and civil society interest groups were invited. The workshop, organised by Miriam von Thenen (Deputy Head of the “Coastal Seas and Society” working group at the IOW), was structured into three working blocks: “Recording” and “Understanding” the shallow water zone and “Extrapolating” model applications to larger areas of the Baltic Sea.

INITIAL SCIENTIFIC WORK

Four scientific areas of work are being pursued in The following are representative of the S2B:

(1) In spring 2024, Ingrid Sassenhagen, Daniel Herlemann and Jörg Dutz designed and conducted a laboratory experiment to investigate the effects of sediment resuspension in shallow waters on the recruitment of microorganisms from resting stages into the water column and the changes in the plankton commu-

nity. This complex experiment showed significant changes in several organisms and biochemical conditions in response to the experimental treatment.

(2) Natural organic matter (NOM) is an important carbon sink that Jann Müller and Helena Osterholz are investigating. Samples were taken weekly for a year and characterised using optical methods. The influence of terrestrial and marine NOM on the photodegradation of new pollutants is also to be clarified.

(3) A year-long study of nitrogen turnover in coastal waters was continued, and initial preliminary results indicate both denitrification and dissimilatory reduction of nitrate to Ammonium (DNRA) as important sales, whereby DNRA has hardly been recorded regularly to date.

(4) A measurement campaign with the research catamaran “Limanda” from the University of Rostock was able to measure a sudden occurrence of oxygendepleted water at the bottom near Nienhagen on two consecutive days (see figure). This phenomenon, as well as all other work that is the focus of the S2B investigations, will be studied intensively in the coming years.

Data on oxygen saturation along a transect at the Nienhagen reef (west of Warnemünde off the Baltic resort of Nienhagen) on two consecutive days, showing high dynamics in bottom oxygen © Holtermann, IOW

LONG-TERM OBSERVATIONS

Long-term data are an important basis for identifying and forecasting developments, trends and processes in the past, present and future. For decades, the IOW has been collecting various biological, chemical, physical and geological data from the seabed and water column, from the western to the central Baltic Sea and, more recently, also in the north. In the western Baltic Sea, the IOW’s long-term observation programme is mainly carried out on behalf of the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) as part of Germany’s contribution to monitoring the marine environment of the Baltic Sea under the Helsinki Convention (HELCOM). The data is freely available in the institute’s own database and is also posted on the relevant national database portals. This gives the IOW a unique archive with high spatial and temporal resolution of the Baltic Sea.

THE OCCURRENCE OF COLD-WATER ALGAE IN THE BALTIC SEA – INCREASINGLY INFLUENCED BY CLIMATE CHANGE?

Backwater and ice-associated diatoms and dinoflagellates dominate the phytoplankton (microalgae community) during spring blooms in the northern and eastern basins of the Baltic Sea. As in polar regions, some of these species can already form large blooms in and under the sea ice. The diatom Pauliella taeniata even occurs only at water temperatures around freezing point. Ice cover and the surface temperature of the water therefore play a decisive role for these species

In the central and southern Baltic Sea, cold-water algae occur less frequently and with irregular dynamics. in the biomass. The increase in surface water temperature of up to 1.5 °C in spring over the last few decades and an increasing decline in ice cover in winter due to climate change suggest that the occurrence of many cold-water algae has already changed significantly. To answer this question, a DFG project used long-term monitoring data from the last 20 and 40 years from the southern and central Baltic Sea for five typical coldwater algae to analyse: the diatoms Pauliella taeniata, Thalas-siosira baltica,Thalassiosira levanderi, Melosira spp. and the dinoflagellate Peridiniella catenata. The data collections of the IOW and ICES (HELCOM) as well as the BED database (Baltic Environmental Database) were used for this purpose.

It has been shown that in the 1980s and in periods from 1995 to 1997, 2003 to 2006 and 2010 to 2013, diatoms occurred in high biomass concentrations in all areas, as can be seen in the adjacent figure. These periods correlated with prolonged ice cover throughout the Baltic Sea and low water temperatures in winter and spring. Since 2013, the biomass of coldwater diatoms in particular has declined sharply in all areas studied, and larger blooms have ceased to occur altogether, correlating with the significant increase in water temperature. The results suggest that these species may soon disappear completely from the southern basins. The decline of the dinoflagellate Peridiniella catenata, however, remains a mystery, as its dynamics appear to be less strongly linked to these environmental factors. Further research is needed to elucidate the presumably complex causes.

But how are larger blooms of cold-water algae actually formed in the central Baltic Sea? Similar to plants, many phytoplankton species form resting stages that sink into the sediment after blooming and germinate again under favourable environmental conditions. However, the central Baltic Sea is too deep to form blooms in this way and is also rarely covered by ice, except in coastal areas. The model analyses were able to prove for the first time that the origin of coldwater algae blooms in the central Baltic Sea lies in the Gulf of Finland and the Gulf of Riga. After cold, ice-rich winters, a significant proportion of the meltwater and thus also large quantities of cold-water algae are trans-

Maximum biomass (mg m-3) of coldwater algae per year during the spring bloom and the corresponding minimum sea surface temperature (SST). Grey areas in the background symbolise identified periods with high biomasses of cold-water algae in the southern and central Baltic Sea. © Paul, IOW

ported for south by surface currents. This then forms the origin of the blooms in the eastern Gotland Basin and in some years even influences the blooms in the Bornholm Basin and Arkona Basin.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Carolin Paul

PUBLICATION

Paul, C., U. Gräwe and A. Kremp (2023).

Long-term changes in bloom dynamics of Southern and Central Baltic cold-water phytoplankton. Front. Mar. Sci. 10: 1212412, doi: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1212412

RESEARCH DATA MANAGEMENT

Research data form the basis of scientific work. At the IOW, they are based on measurements or observations taken from the air, at sea or in the laboratory, as well as on model simulations. Careful research data management is essential in this context, as it ensures the validation of data, secure storage and long-term archiving, public accessibility and citability, as well as the accurate use of data in terms of content and context.

The IOW works closely with stakeholders from the fields of IT & data management, science and the library support researchers in their data management. Information events are held to explain the basics of handling research data in accordance with the internationally applicable FAIR principles, to present options for storing, long-term archiving or sharing data in collaborations, and to provide tips on publishing data with persistent identifiers (such as DOI). Particular attention is paid to in-house infrastructures, such as the oceanographic database IOWDB, the database search tool ODIN and the metadata catalogue IOWMETA.

The IOW data management team attends national and international conferences and meetings. Currently, the IOW is also organising and coordinating the central data management for the CDRmare research mission of the German Alliance for Marine Research (DAM). This involves lively, productive exchanges with all parties involved, in particular the DAM core area “Data Management and Digitisation”, the other DAM research missions sustainMare and mareXtreme, and the PANGAEA data repository.

In addition, in September 2024, the IOW successfully applied for membership in NFDI4Earth, the consortium for Earth system research of the National Research Data Infrastructure (NFDI). Specifically, this activity is supported by the “User SupportNetwork”of NFDI4Earth, through which user enquiries about aspects of FAIR handling of research data and related infrastructures

be answered. Here, the IOW can contribute its expertise in oceanographic databases, data curation and model data server solutions. The IOW has also applied for a second funding phase of NFDI4Bio-diversity, the NFDI consortium for the shared use of biodiversity and environmental data. There, it will contribute to improving the availability and FAIRness of data on marine biodiversity in the future.

CONTACT PERSONS

Dr. Susanne Feistel, Dr. Manja Placke

PUBLICATION

Höring, F., Boxhammer, T., Feistel, S., Felden, J., Heins, A., Hoppe, K., Krüger, M., Mehrtens, H., Placke, M., Terzijska, D., Wiemer, G. & Wittmann, A. C. (2025). Empfehlungen zum Forschungsdatenmanagement für DAM-Forschungsemissionen und Verbünde (Version 3). Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ zenodo.15430225

The floating offshore wind turbine (DemoSATH) is located off the coast of Bilbao and, together with the “Life Boosting Units” (top right, opposite page), represents one of four

NEW PROJECTS

In 2024, 33 third-party funded projects began (some of which in a coordinating role). The funding bodies include the European Union (particularly as part of the EU research framework programme Horizon Europe), the German Research Foundation (DFG), the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) and other federal ministries. S elected projects are presented in the following chapter. A complete list of all projects worked on in 2024 can be found in the appendix.

TRANSEATION

Advancing Ecosystem-Based Management through Hybrid Blue-Grey Infrastructures in Marine and Coastal Areas

In the EU project TRANSEATION, the IOW is working with partners from eight countries to investigate how technical coastal infrastructures such as breakwaters, offshore wind farms and aquaculture facilities can be ecologically enhanced and integrated into marine ecosystems. The aim is to develop a management approach that combines nature-based solutions with technology and digitalisation to protect biodiversity and ecosystem services. Four case studies in Spain, France and Israel examine hybrid systems, evaluating their effectiveness and assessing their transferability. The IOW is contributing the System Approach Framework (SAF) – a structured, participatory approach to planning, implementation and evaluation of ecosystembased solutions.

FUNDING PERIOD

01/2024 – 06/2027

FUNDING

EU – Horizon Europe

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AT IOW

Dr. Johanna Schuhmacher, Dr. Ibrahim Boubekri

WEBSITE

https://transeation-europeanproject.eu/

Moorklimaschutz

Model project for climate protection through peatland restoration

In this project, 12 degraded coastal polders (totalling 14roduci. 850 ha) on the Baltic Sea coast of Vorpommern are being ecologically restored through rewetting in order to investigate their function as carbon sinks. Researchers at the IOW led by Prof. Dr. Maren Voß and Dr. Sophie Kache, in cooperation with the University of Greifswald and the Baltic Sea Foundation (coordination), are investigating material and gas flows – especially nitrogen compounds – using long-term monitoring data. Four selected polders along the coast are being sampled, which are being renaturalised in different ways and connected to the adjacent coast. The ten-year project duration allows for observations before, during and after renaturation, thus offering a unique opportunity to analyse emissions and material conversion processes. The results will be used to develop sound strategies for renaturation measures with low nutrient and greenhouse gas emissions. The model project is part of the national “Natural Climate Protection Action Programme” (ANK).

Project kick-off (from left): Maren Voß (IOW), Georg Nikelski (OSTSEE-STIFTUNG), Steffi Lemke (Federal Minister for the Environment), Balázs Baranyai (OSTSEESTIFTUNG), Till Backhaus (Minister for the Environment of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania), Gerald Jurasinski (University of Greifswald) © Krone, OSTSEESTIFTUNG

FUNDING PERIOD

03/2024 – 03/2034

FUNDING

Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (Natural Climate Protection Action Programme)

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Prof. Dr. Maren Voß

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/338/moorklimaschutz.html

TRR 181

Energy transfer in atmosphere and ocean

TRR 181 “Energy transfer in atmosphere and ocean” is a special programme funded by the DFG, coordinated by the University of Hamburg, which has been investigating energy transport between the ocean and the atmosphere since 2016 – a key aspect for the further development of climate-relevant models. In the third funding phase, the IOW is contributing its many years of expertise, particularly in the field of physical oceanography. It examines how internal waves, currents and eddies affect mixing processes and how these processes influence the energy balance in the ocean. The Baltic Sea serves as a model system for purposive measurements and simulations. The aim is to improve the physical consistency of climate models in order to better represent the smallest energy imbalances –because these in particular can have farreaching global consequences.

FUNDING PERIOD

07/2024 – 06/2028

FUNDING

German Research Foundation

Graphic representation of the IOW’s research in the third funding phase of TRR 188 “Energy transfer in the atmosphere and the ocean” (DWL: Diurnal Warm Layer; EUC: Equatorial Undercurrent; qh: Heat flux through the surface; qm: Impulse flux through the surface)

© Umlauf, IOW

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Prof. Dr. Hans Burchard

WEBSITE

https://www.trr-energytransfers.de

STATUS

Status of the functions of biogenic reefs in the Baltic Sea with a focus on carbon fixation

This project investigates sublittoral mussel beds and biogenic reefs in the German Baltic Sea with regard to their blue-carbon potential – that is, their capacity to permanently sequester carbon in marine habitats. The aim is to systematically map these structures, quantify their contribution to CO₂ storage and represent this in current and future balance models. Field studies, remote sensing, laboratory and mesocosm experiments are used to record material flows and calcification. The results help to close key knowledge gaps on naturebased climate protection in marine ecosystems and support the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN) in developing effective protection and management strategies for reef structures relevant to biodiversity.

FUNDING PERIOD

10/2024 – 09/2027

FUNDING Federal Agency for Nature Conservation

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Dr. Michael L. Zettler

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/350/status.html

SEADITO

Social-Ecological analysis and models for the digital twin ocean

In this European joint project, analysis methods and tools are being developed in cooperation with end users to support the expansion of the European Digital Ocean Twin (EU DTO) into a comprehensive platform by 2030. The project integrates ecological and socio-economic data into models to provide practical support to decision-makers in coastal and inland waters. Participatory processes generate “what-if” scenarios and indicators for environmental changes, policy alternatives and management decisions. The IOW contributes by facilitating co-design workshops with stakeholders in the case study area, developing integrated models, and leading the work package on case studies, with a particular focus on the Greifswald Bodden water-quality case study. SEADITO is producing FAIR-compliant decision support systems and learning materials for researchers, authorities and the public until 2027.

FUNDING PERIOD

09/2024 – 08/2027

FUNDING

EU – Horizon Europe

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Dr. Miriam von Thenen

WEBSITE

https://seadito.eu

SUBNORDICA

On the trail of submerged landscapes

The IOW contribution to the ERC Synergy Grant aims to develop new methods for reconstructing submerged landscapes and human settlements. The focus is on how post-glacial sea level rises changed the coastal regions of the North Sea and Baltic Sea and what consequences this had for prehistoric societies. To this end, researchers are combining geophysical measurements, sediment analyses, dendrochronology and AI-based modelling. Holocene coastal landscapes are being systematically examined in four selected regions. The aim is to develop an integrative methodological approach that combines archaeological, geoscientific and ecological findings. SUBNORDICA strives to redefine our view ofhuman prehistory, develop a world-lea-

ding model for the investigation of submerged landscapes and strengthen policy guidelines for managing underwater cultural heritage

FUNDING PERIOD

10/2024 – 03/2030

FUNDING

EU – ERC Synergy Grant

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Dr. Jacob Geersen

WEBSITE

https://projects.au.dk/subnordica/about

Sediment echo sounder profiles and bathymetry as well as mapped peat edges (recording data March/May 2025) and archaeological sites from earlier projects (SINCOS project 2002 – 2009)

© Geersen/Feldens, IOW

DAM MISSIONEN

The IOW in the joint projects of the research missions of the German Marine Research Alliance (DAM)

The IOW is actively involved in projects covering all three research missions of the German Marine Research Alliance. Selected projects are presented on the following pages.

In early 2024, the mareXtreme research mission “Ways to improve risk management in the field of marine extreme events and natural hazards” commenced, along with the following two projects involving the IOW:

ElbeXtremeHydro

Effects of physical oceanographic extreme events on ecosystem services in the Elbe estuary coastal system; Project: Scenario studies as a basis for ecosystem risks

The project aims to develop a high-resolution, hydrodynamicecological model for the Elbe estuary to enable better predictions and assessments of the effects of extreme events such as storm surges, heat waves and floods. The existing model with curvilinear coordinates is being significantly refined and implemented using the General Estuarine Transport Model (GETM). By linking it to modular ecosystem components via MOSSCO, ecological extreme events such as oxygen depletion or algal blooms can be simulated realistically. Scenario analyses help to map both historical and possible future extreme events and to analyse their risks to the sensitive estuarine ecosystem on a scientific basis.

FUNDING PERIOD

01/2024 – 12/2026

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Prof. Dr. Hans Burchard

2011 at 0:00 h, estimated using a high-resolution numerical simulation with GETM (General Estuarine Transport Model). It is easy to see how the fresh water (blue) from the Weser (west) and the Elbe (east) mixes with each other and with the salt water of the North Sea (red) to form a common river plume (light blue-yellow) that flows northwards. © Li, IOW

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/331/elbextremehydro.html

PrimePrevention

Prediction of marine biological hazards to prevent socio-economic impacts; project: Monitoring, modelling and assessment of extreme weather events on marine biological hazards in the western Baltic Sea

Increasing marine hazards such as pathogenic vibrios, potentially toxic cyanobacteria and oxygen depletion pose a growing threat to public health, fisheries, tourism and biodiversity in the western Baltic Sea. PrimePrevention is developing innovative early warning systems based on linked modular measurement systems and high-resolution models. The aim is ensure that risks can be detected at an early stage and preventive measures can be taken. The IOW analyses past extreme events and possible cascade effects under rising temperatures. This is incorporated into studies on the effects of extreme events on ecosystem services. The results of the DAM joint project will ultimately lead to improved early warning systems and practical strategies for sustainable risk management and monitoring.

Summery, potentially toxic blue-green algae bloom in the inner coastal waters of the Baltic Sea (Curonian Spit), resulting in bathing bans and restricted tourism development © Schwernewski, IOW

FUNDING PERIOD

01/2024 – 12/2026

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Dr. René Friedland

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/332/dam_primeprevention.html

In the second funding phase of the CDRmare research mission “Marine carbon sinks as a path to decarbonisation”, the IOW continues to be active in the following projects:

MGF Baltic Sea II

Effects of bottom contact fishing exclusion in marine protected areas (Natura 2000) of the German EEZ in the Baltic Sea; Development scenarios of benthic communities and sediment functions

The MGF-Baltic Sea II project investigates how the exclusion of mobile bottom contact fishing affects benthic communities and sediment functions in marine protected areas in the Baltic Sea. Building on Phase I, time series sampling is used to record changes in biodiversity, biomass and seabed function. In addition, a targeted experiment analyses the direct impact of bottom trawling on benthic communities. The aim is to establish a robust scientific basis for the effective management of marine protected areas.

FUNDING PERIOD 03/2023 – 02/2026

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Prof. Dr. Klaus Jürgens

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/318/mgfostsee_ii.html

RETAKE II

CO2 removal by alkalinity enhancement: Potential benefits and risks; Subproject: Potential effects of benthnic carbonate dissolution on the Baltic Sea ecosystem

In the second funding phase of RETAKE, the potential of CO2 removal through alkalinity increase in the Baltic Sea will be further researched. The IOW is using modelling an field measurements to investigate the effects of lime addition on CO2 uptake, biogeochemical processes and marine ecology. The aim is to reduce uncertainties from phase I and to better assess the ecological compatibility of large-sacle applications.

FUNDING PERIOD 08/2024 – 07/2027

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW Dr. Hagen Radtke

WEBSITE https://www.iow.de/project/345/ retake_2.html

In the sustainMare research mission “Protecting and sustainably using the oceans”, the IOW is again actively involved in the following projects in the second funding phase:

CREATE II

Concepts for Reducing the Effects of Anthropogenic pressures and uses on marine Ecosystems and on Biodiversity: Creation of a Baltic Sea bioarchive

With this project, the IOW is establishing harmonised long-term archiving of environmental DNA (Edna) for the German Baltic Sea. The aim is to build up a comprehensive digital database and a physical sample collection. These will be used for research, biodiversity conservation and to provide information for authorities and the public. In addition, a fact sheet with standards for sampling, storage and analysis is being created to support the uniform archiving of Ednasamples.

FUNDING PERIOD

12/2024 – 11/2027

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Prof. Dr. Matthias Labrenz

WEBSITE https://www.iow.de/project/352/dam_ create-2.html

CONMAR II

Concepts for conventional Marine munition Remedia tion in the German North Sea and Baltic Sea; Project: Modelling the drift of explosive-type compounds (STV) in coastal oceans and investigating clearance strategies

FUNDING PERIOD

12/2024 – 11/2027

The project investigates the distribution, condition and environmental impact of around 1.6 million tonnes of sunken munitions in the North Sea and Baltic Sea. The aim is to integrate existing and new data sets on contaminated sites containing explosive ordnance in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the release, spread and ecological impact of explosive-type compounds. Using modelling and measurement data, the IOW analyses the drift of these substances in coastal waters and assesses various clearance strategies.

CoastalFutures II

Future scenarios for promoting the sustainable use of marine areas

The project is developing a model system for the North Sea and Baltic Sea that analyses the effects of climate change and human use on marine ecosystems. This virtual environment is used to evaluate management measures in the sectors of offshore energy, fisheries, coastal protection/sand management, and nutrient and pollutant inputs. The IOW contributes its expertise in physical-biogeochemical modelling and investigates possible future scenarios with regard to ecosystem services, resilience and conflicts of use. The aim is to provide scientifically sound, practical recommendations for action for the sustainable, integrated management of marine areas.

FUNDING PERIOD

12/2024 – 11/2027

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Dr. Ulf Gräwe

WEBSITE https://conmar-munition.eu/

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Prof. Dr. Markus Meier

WEBSITE https://www.coastalfutures.de/

OCEAN TECHNOLOGY CAMPUS

The second funding phase of the Ocean Technology Campus (OTC), which is funded by the BMFTR as part of the Clusters4Future funding line, was approved in 2024. Three OTC II projects began at the IOW in the reporting year. A fourth project will start in 2025.

DaTA2Model-E

Living Probabilistic Twins

The DaTA2Model-E project is optimising the measuring instruments used to survey a marine area: by creating a digitally, spatially and temporally high-resolution “true state” using a model it examines which sensor strategies and placements best support the reconstruction of this state, taking measurement uncertainties into account.

FUNDING PERIOD 10/2024 – 09/2027

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AT IOW

Dr. Ralf Prien

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/356/otc-data2model-e.html

Genomics II

Method development for environmental monitoring of aquatic habitats using eDNA

The project is developing new methods for monitoring aquatic life using environmental DNA (Edna). This involves analysing tiny traces of genetic material in the water and evaluating them using modern computer technology and artificial intelligence. The goal is to detect pollution or other environmental changes at an early stage and to develop an easy-to-use tool with clear standards that start-ups can use and authorities can begin testing from 2027 onwards.

Measurement of temperature dynamics in the Gotland Basin over five days with high temporal resolution. Which combination of instruments is sufficient to resolve these dynamics? The white lines represent isopycnals. © Prien, IOW

FUNDING PERIOD 11/2024 – 10/2027

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AT IOW

Prof. Dr. Matthias Labrenz

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/293/otc-geno mics.html

Doktorand Conor Glackin bei der Wasserprobenahme am Ostseestrand © Nietz, IOW

PromOcean

Diversity, recruiting skilled workers and promoting young talents in ocean technology

PromOcean combines the recruitment of skilled workers and equal opportunities in the maritime sector at the Ocean Technology Campus Rostock. It relies on innovative formats such as camps, summer schools and mentoring programmes to inspire young talent across all educational backgrounds, nationalities and genders. The aim is to break down structural barriers, strengthen the international campus and promote female and international talent in particular.

FUNDING PERIOD

10/2024 – 09/2027

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

Collaboration on deck is fun © Kastell, IOW

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Dr. Regine Labrenz

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/353/otc-promocean.html

OTC-SMART

Smart marine data analysis in real time

The OTC-SMART project is developing AI-supported assistance software that controls autonomous hydroacoustic sensor platforms in real time and evaluates data. This allows large areas of the seabed to be surveyed in a cost-efficient manner. The system improves data quality directly in the field. It is scheduled for use in unmanned vehicles from 2027 onwards.

FUNDING PERIOD

01/2025 – 12/2027

FUNDING

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI) AT IOW

Dr. Svenja Papenmeier

WEBSITE

https://www.iow.de/project/354/ otc-smart.html

NEW FACES

DR. VOLKER MOHRHOLZ, PROF. DR. HANS BURCHARD

Deputy Head of the “Physical Oceanography and Measurement Technology department”

In June Dr. Volker Mohrholz, an expert in coastal an ocean observation, took over as Deputy Head of the Physical Oceanography and Measurement Technologie department. His predecessor, Prof. Dr. Hans Burchard, stepped down as Deputy Headof the department in order to devote more times to research in his working group.

NEW FACES OF THE SCIENTIFIC COUNCIL

The Scientific Council (WR) advises the Director and Board of Trustees on important scientific matters, such as the appointment of members of the Scientific Advisory Board or the creation of the reaserach programme. The committee consists of the heads of department, their deputies and four elected scientific staff members from the respective departments. In 2024

Dr. Isabell Klawonn, Dr. Henry Bittig, Jacob Geersen und Dr. Florian Bögel were elected by the scientific staff for a three-year term.

DR. HENRY BITTIG

Marine Chemistry department

(Spokesperson for the Scientific Council)

© Jessin, LOV

DR. ISABELL KLAWONN

Biological Oceanographie department

© Beck, IOW

DR. FLORIAN BÖRGEL

Physical Oceanography & Instrumentation department

© Amm, IOW

DR. JACOB GEERSEN

Marine Geology department

© Beck, IOW

SPOKESPERSONS FOR THE RESEARCH AREAS

The new IOW research programme 2024–2033, “Perspectives of Coastal Seas”, is divided into three research areas (see chapter Research Highlights). These strengthen interdisciplinary and cross-sectional scientific cooperation. In October, the spokespersons were elected by the IOW scientists. We are delighted that six people have stepped forward to take on these roles.

RESEARCH AREA 1: KEY PROCESSES ACROSS SCALES AND BOUNDARIES

DR. NATALIE LOICK-WILDE

Biological Oceanography department

Physical Oceanography & Measurement Technology department

RESEARCH AREA 3: EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

DR. BRONWYN CAHILL

Marine Observation Research Unit

DR. CHRISTIANE HASSENRÜCK

Biological Oceanography department

PROF. DR. KATJA FENNEL

Chair of the Advisory Board

Prof. Dr. Katja Fennel from Dalhousie University, Halifax (Canada) has been the new chair of the IOW’s nine-member Scientific Advisory Board since the beginning of 2024. The renowned oceanographer brings international expertise to the table and provides strategic support to the institute in the further development of its research.

RESEARCH AREA 2: COASTAL SEAS IN TRANSITION

DR. JÉRÔME KAISER

Marine Geology department

DR. HELENA OSTERHOLZ Marine Chemistry department

© Fennel

AWARDS, HONOURS

CHAIR OF THE GERMAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE OF THE SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE ON OCEAN RESEARCH (SCOR)

Scince the beginning of 2024, the Future Forum Oceanography (ZFO) has been the offical German National Committee of the Scientific Committee on Ocean Research (SCOR), an international network for ocean research. As spokeperson for the ZFO‘s executive committee, Prof. Dr. Hans Burchard also chairs the committee. The committee evalues SCOR applications from around the world and makes funding recommendations.

LINK

https://www.deutsche-meeresforschung.de/ en/the-ocean-future-forum-elects-a-newspokesperson/

GIBBS AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING RESEARCH ON WATER, STEAM AND AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS

(retired) was honoured in 2024 with the prestigous Gibbs Award from the international Association for the Properties of Water and Steam (IAPWS) for his leading role in the develpment of the international seawater standard TEOS-10. The award recognises his segnificant contribution to the thermodynamic

https://www.io-warnemuende.de/short-newsarchiv-details/items/gibbs-award-2024-fuerrainer-feistel.html

Dr. Rainer Feistel with the Gibbs Award from the IAPWS

PROFESSOR KAZIMIERZ DEMEL MEDAL

For his outstanding achievements in the field of physical oceanography and modelling, as well as his calculations of the effects of climate change on the protection of the Baltic Sea, Prof. Dr. Markus Meier was awarded the prestigious Professor Kazimierz Demel Medal from the Polish Academy of Sciences in 2024. The award recognises his many years of scientific commitment.

LINK

https://www.io-warnemuende. de/short-news-archivdetails/items/markusmeier-erhaelt-kazimierz-demelmedaille.html

Prof. Mariusz Sapota (Institute of Oceanography at the University of Gdansk), Prof. Dr. Markus Meier (IOW) and Dr. Piotr Margoński (National Marine Fisheries Research Institute) at the award ceremony in Gdynia, Poland (from right to left). © Meier

DFG REVIEW BOARD FOR GEOLOGY/PALAEONTOLOGY

Prof. Dr. Helge Arz was elected to the DFG Review Board for Geology/Palaeontology. For four years, he will review funding applications and contribte to quality assurance in the DFG evaluation process – a commitment that represents an important contribution to the scientific community.

LINK

https://www.io-warnemuende.de/short-news-archive-details/items/helge-arz-in-dfg-fachkollegiumgewaehlt.html

RECOGNITION

For the SEASCAPES project, the IOW and its partners received a recognition award worth German Science Award. The project team from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Schleswig-Holstein was thus honoured for its research on Stone Age underwater structures in the western Baltic Sea.

LINK

https://www.io-warnemuende.de/short-newsarchiv-details/items/ norddeutscher-wissenschaftspreis2024-anerkennung-fuer-seascapes. html

INTERNATIONAL HONORARY POSITIONS FOR TRACE GAS RESEARCH

Scine October 2024, Prof. Dr. Gregor Rehder has been representing the trace gas component in two international committees: as chiar of the Ocean Marine Station Assembly in the Integrated Carbon Observation System (ICOS), he coordinates quality standarts and technical exchange. On the steering board of the International Ocean Carbon Coordination Project (IOCCP), he is committed to establishing N₂O and CH₄ as global measurement standarts alongside CO₂.

LINK

https://www.icos-cp.eu

Prof. Dr. Gregor Rehder © Rehder

https://www.ioccp.org

APPOINTMENTS OF PROF. DR. OLIVER ZIELINSKI

The director of the IOW was appointed to four advisory boards and executive boards in the reporting year.

CHAIR OF THE SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD OF THE WUPPERTAL INSTITUTE

Prof. Dr. Oliver Zielinski was appointed chair of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy in 2024. The advisory board supports the strategic research focus of the renowned sustainability institute.

LINK

https://wupperinst.org/en/the-institute/ organisation/international-advisory-board

MEMBER OF THE ADVISORY BOARD OF THE LEIBNIZ ACADEMY FOR EXECUTIVES

In 2024 Prof. Dr. Oliver Zielinski was appointed to the advisory board of the Leibniz Academy for Executives. The academy supports executives at Leibniz institutes through practical programmes and strategic skill development.

LINK

https://www.leibniz-fuehrungskraefte.de/fileadmin/ user_upload/Akademie/3_Programme/Beirat_Leibniz-Akademie_-f%C3%BCr_F%C3%BChrungskr%C3%A4fte_2025.pdf

BALTIC EARTH SENIOR ADVISORY BOARD (BESAB)

As a new member of the Baltic Earth Senior Advisory Board (BESAB) Prof. Dr. Oliver Zielinski advises the international research network on climate processes in the Baltic Sea region. Baltic Earth promotes interdisciplinary research on sustainable development in the region.

LINK

https://baltic.earth/organisation/ advisory_board

EXTENDED

BOARD OF THE GERMAN MARINE RESEARCH CONSORTIUM

Prof. Dr. Oliver Zielinski has been a member of the extended board of the German Marine Research Consortium (KDM) since 2024. The KDM pools Germany’s marine science expertise and coordinates research strategies at the national level.

LINK

https://www.deutsche-meeresforschung.de/ en/new-board-of-kdm-takes-up-its-work/

COOPERATION

Science thrives through cooperation with national and international partners and networks. The IOW is a member of various national networks, most notably the German Alliance for Marine Research (DAM) and the German Marine Research Consortium (KDM). On the international stage, the IOW works in the Baltic Sea region under the umbrella of the Baltic Earth Network, a network of earth system science institutes in the countries bordering the Baltic Sea. Additionally, the IOW maintains numerous structural collaborations with marine science research institutes and universities abroad, such as Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada. The IOW continues to e xpand its collaborations with strategically important partners.

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY, HALIFAX, KANADA

In January 2024 the IOW, the University of Rostock and the Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada, signed a memorandum of understanding. This will deepen the already close contacts between the two institutions. The aim is to develop the broadest possible academic relations and, through the joint agreement, establish a framework for expanding further collaborative activities between the institutions. The focus lies on fields of marine sciences and marine technology. To kick things off, an initial trilateral online workshop was held in February 2024.

Heide Schulz-Vogt, Deputy Director of the IOW, Matthew Hebb, Vice-President of Dal housie University in Halifax, Canada, and Elizabeth Prommer, Rector of the University of Rostock, at the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding. © Universität Rostock

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF KLAIPĖDA

Oliver Zielinski, Director of the IOW, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lithuanian University of Klaipėda in April 2024. This opens up further perspectives for the existing cooperation. The focus is on strengthening collaborative coastal sea research, including in the field of remote sensing, as well as on the efficient use of existing research infrastructure and innovative marine research technology. An important existing joint research area is a research group established by the IOW in Klaipėda on the topic of coastal and marine management.

Oliver Zielinski, Director of the IOW (left), and Artūras Razbadauskas (right), Rector of Klaipėda University, signing the memorandum of understanding in Klaipėda. © IOW

WORKSHOP ON COOPERATION WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF GREIFSWALD

There is a long-standing collaboration with the University of Greifswald, including joint professoral appointments. In addition, there are close project-based collaborations. In November, a delegation of scientists from various departments at the University of Greifswald visited the IOW to participate in a workshop focused on cooperation. With strategically important partners. The collaboration is set to be strengthened in several areas, such as in marine microbiology.

Colleagues from the University of Greifswald visiting the IOW as part of a cooperation workshop.

© Premke-Kraus, IOW

TRANSFER

For the IOW, transfer means preparing and communicating science-based facts for society, policy makers and practitioners. This chapter uses selected examples to show how research results are communicated to various target groups – from events such as Open Ship, the Warnemünder Abende and the Hanse Sail to action days. Young people gain insights into marine research through camps and volunteer services. Patents and funding applications for spin-offs show that the IOW is strengthening its innovative power and expanding its exchange with partners from industry. This makes knowledge tangible, understandable and effective.

RESEARCH UP CLOSE

Open Ship 2024

The IOW invited visitors to a double “Open Ship” event in May. The two research vessels MARIA S. MERIAN and ELISABETH MANN BORGESE were moored in Warnemünde, ready to welcome curious visitors. Exciting tours allowed visitors to explore the bridge, laboratories and living quarters. At ten information stands, researchers presented topics such as climate change in the Baltic Sea, plastic waste, coastal protection, sediment research, biodiversity, pollutants, oxygen depletion, modern measurement technology, digitisation of marine research and sustainable shipping. In addition, nine lectures offered fascinating insights into current research work. Several hundred guests took advantage of the rare opportunity to experience both vessels in their home port at the same time. This made the sea on our doorstep tangible for young and old alike and brought science to life.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Matthias Premke-Kraus

HANDS-ON SCIENCE

Long Night of Science 2024

The IOW attracted large crowds at the Long Night of Science in April. Together with the Leibniz Institute for Atmospheric Physics in Kühlungsborn (IAP), the institute presented itself in the Technikum of the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis (LIKAT). There was plenty of technology to try out at the stand: simulating currents on the touch table, examining the device buoy used in shallow water research, marvelling at a drone or discovering the Baltic Sea model. The small research

IOW scientists present marine technology © IOW

boat “Klaashahn” outside the hall also attracted a lot of attention. The response was consistently positive, and the joint presentation by three Leibniz Institutes became the ideal place for exciting discussions with a curious audience.

CONTACT PERSON

FULL SPEED AHEAD!

MOVING THE FUTURE WITH SCIENCE

The IOW at the Hanse Sail

In August, the IOW presented itself at the Science@Sail Campus in Rostock‘s city harbour. At the information stand, visitors were able to access live data from the Baltic Sea and the Warnow River and talk to researchers. Among other things, measuring instruments used for monitoring the Baltic Sea and the “Warnow probe” developed by the IOW were on display. With lectures on unusually warm bottom temperatures in the Baltic Sea and participation in discussion panels such as “Future in flux?!” the IOW brought current research topics into the public debate. Science came to life – right by the water and in the midst of the Hanse Sail hustle and bustle.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Sven Hille

Bettina Martin, Minister for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs, in conversation at the IOW stand © Dahlhaus, INP

THE IOW AT THE HEART OF THE CELEBRATIONS

Unification celebrations in Schwerin

On the occasion of the nationwide celebration of German Unity Day in October, the IOW presented itself at the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Mile at Schweriner Pfaffenteich. For three days, colleagues manned the stand together with other Leibniz Institutes from the federal state. The touch table, which allows visitors to experience phenomena in the Baltic Sea in a playful way, attracted many visitors and provided an ideal conversation starter. Numerous interested parties learned about current IOW research, including the warming of the Baltic Sea due to climate change and nutrient pollution. Science Minister Bettina Martin from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania also took the opportunity to learn more about the institute‘s work.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Matthias Premke-Kraus

BALTIC SEA RESEARCH IN DIALOGUE

Warnemünder Abende 2024

The “Warnemünder Abende” are a series of lectures organised by the IOW that open up current research topics to a broad audience. After a five-year hiatus, they were relaunched in 2024 with great success. Around 500 guests attended in total, many of them more than once. In the fully packed IOW hall, the focus was on topics concerning the Baltic Sea and beyond: the history of marine research in Warnemünde, the darkening of oceans, climate change and its consequences, microplastics, vibrions and World War II munitions in the sea, and eight million years of climate history revealed by deep drilling in the South Pacific. This made knowledge tangible and aroused curiosity about research taking place on our doorstep.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Matthias Premke-Kraus

The packed hall of the IOW during one night of the lectures at the Warnemünde Evenings © Premke-Kraus, IOW

SAVE THE BALTIC SEA

“StrandVision” action day at the IOW

The “Save the Baltic Sea” expedition made a stop-over at the IOW in April 2024. A group of ten Lithuanian environmental activists circled the entire Baltic Sea on foot to draw attention to pressing issues such as climate change, eutrophication, munitions contamination and microplastics. In collaboration with the Mecklenburg-Western Pomeranian Agency for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Geology (LUNG) and the Coastal Union Germany e.V. (EUCC-D), the IOW invited to the “StrandVision” action day to mark the occasion. Around 90 schoolchildren, citizens and experts from the tourism industry, administration and science discussed climate adaptation strategies for coastal regions in workshops and took part in a beach litter survey in

Sorting the approximately 1,000 pieces of plastic found in the IOW hall © Beck, IOW

Warnemünde. Despite the rain, 40 volunteers collected over 1,000 pieces of plastic waste in just 45 minutes. The event thus combined science, commitment and practical action.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Sven Hille

MARINE PROTECTION MEETS HIGH TECH

Inventors’ Camp 2024

Twelve schoolgirls from Rostock, Berlin and Hannover immersed themselves in the world of marine research in July 2024. At the Inventors’ Camp, part of the Ocean Technology Campus (OTC) project “Ocean Gender”, they experienced how high-tech and marine conservation go hand in hand. They investigated salinity, wind and currents, discovered biodiversity in a landing net, steered an underwater robot and built their own measuring station. In the process, they learned about current research topics at OTC Rostock and the challenges of working underwater. The camp sparked a noticeable curiosity about the marine sector in all participants. This way, forward-looking thinking was combined with a spirit of exploration, and science was made tangible in a unique way.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Kirstin Kastell

FRESH ENERGY AT THE IOW

Volunteers and trainees 2024/25

For many years, the IOW has been hosting young people for a voluntary ecological year (FÖJ) or a voluntary social year in science, technology and sustainability (FJN). In September 2024, seven new volunteers and trainees started at the institute. They work in almost all departments, from biological oceanography and marine chemistry to marine geology, physical oceanography and science management. Through their service, they gain insights into scientific practice and gain

valuable guidance for their study or career decisions. At the same time, the IOW benefits from their personal commitment: the volunteers support projects, offer new perspectives and help to bring research to life – a real win-win situation.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Sven Hille

SUCCESS IN TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

New patents for the IOW

In winter 2024, the IOW achieved two successesful patents grants. At the end of February, a patent was issured for the SPR sensor unit, which enables the measurement, the refractive index and density for precise investigations in the marine environment. In the addition, the IOW supported a funding application as part of the EXIST research transfer programme. These developments further strenghten the cooperation between science and industry.

CONTACT PERSON

Dr. Regine Labrenz

DECISION-MAKING TOOL FOR STAKEHOLDERS FROM ADMINISTRATION, POLITICS AND SOCIETY

Assessment framework for marine CO₂ removal

As part of the German Marine Research Alliance‘s mission “Marine Carbon Storage as a Pathway to Decarbonisation” (CDRmare), an assessment framework for marine CO₂ removal methods was developed with the involvement of scientists from the IOW. This framework integrates technical, ecological, legal, economic, political, ethical and justive-related considerations. While previous assessment approaches often focused on individual aspects (e.g. biodiversity) or mainly considered technical feasibility, the newly developed assessment framework emphasises the relevance of all dimensions – including justice and ethical issues. As a result, the assessment framework provides a basis for evaluating which marine CO₂ removal methods are technically feasible and under which conditions they could be socially desirable. This represents an important contribution to informed decision-making in climate protection.

CONTACT PERSON

Prof. Dr. Gregor Rehder

WEBSITE

https://oceanrep.geomar.de/id/eprint/60681/

The cover page of the publication

UPDATED FACT SHEET ON CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE BALTIC SEAE

Climate Change in the Baltic Sea 2024 Fact Sheet

How is climate change affecting the Baltic Sea? Answers can be found in the updated “Climate Change in the Baltic Sea 2024 Fact Sheet” published by Baltic Earth and HELCOM. Around 90 researchers, including experts from the IOW, contributed to the fact sheet. It brings together the latest findings on 38 parameters – from temperature, sea level and nutrient cycles to biodiversity, ecosystem services and human activities. New additions include acidification, harmful algal blooms and marine litter. What becomes clear: The Baltic Sea is warming, sea levels are rising and ice-free winters are becoming more likely – with far-reaching consequences for nature and coastal residents.

CONTACT PERSON

Prof. Dr. Markus Meier

WEBSITE

https://helcom.fi/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ Baltic-Sea-Climate-Change-Fact-Sheet_2024.pdf

The cover page of the publication

THE IOW WITHIN THE LEIBNIZ ASSOCIATION

SECTION E

https://zenodo.org/ records/10794362

The IOW is a member of Section E (Environmental Sciences) of the Leibniz Association and actively participates in many committees, initiatives and joint events, either by contributing or in a coordinating role. Networking within the community is of strategic importance to the IOW. S elected examples are presented below.

PARTNERS IN THE LEIBNIZ LAB “SYSTEMIC SUSTAINABILITY”

The rapid loss of biodiversity and ongoing climate change are both consequences of intensive agriculture and at the same time, they threaten agriculture and food security. The Leibniz Lab “Systemic Sustainability” brings together relevant knowledge from science and society to address this fundamental challenge and to advance the development and implementation of systemic solutions. It does so by systematically integrating scientific findings on biodiversity, climate, agriculture and food, while also identifying innovative approaches. By pooling the expertise of 41 research institutions and 11 research clusters of the Leibniz Association, including the IOW as a contributing partner, the Lab serves as a central hub for sharing knowledge and providing advice in this field.

The participants of the strategy workshop “Coast & Sea at Leibniz” © Premke-Kraus, IOW

HOST OF THE STRATEGY WORKSHOP “COAST & SEA @ LEIBNIZ”

The Leibniz Association has several institutes and research groups that deal with topics related to marine and coastal research. In October 2024, the IOW invited them to the first strategy workshop under the title “Coast & Sea at Leibniz”. The invitation was accepted by representatives from Senckenberg am Meer of the Senckenberg Society for Nature Research (SGN), the Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS) and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK). The aim of the joint initiative is to strengthen networking among Leibniz Institutes with a research profile in marine and coastal research, for example on strategic and technical topics.

IOW EXPERTISE IN “10 MUST-KNOWS FROM BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH 2024” BY THE LEIBNIZ RESEARCH NETWORK „BIODIVERSITY“

The IOW is a member of the Leibniz Research Networks “Biodiversity”, “Earth & Society” and “Mathematical Modelling and Simulation”. In March 2024, the Leibniz Research Network Biodiversity published the “10 MustKnows from Biodiversity Research 2024”. It is a policy advisory paper with evidence-based recommendations for action as a contribution to the socio-ecological transformation of society. Christiane Hassenrück and Klaus Jürgens from the IOW were involved in two recommendations for action.

WEBSITE

https://zenodo.org/records/10794362

COMMITMENT

TO THE

EQUAL

OPPORTUNITIES AND DIVERSITY WORKING GROUP

The Leibniz Association‘s Working Group on Equal Opportunities and Diversity (AKCD) brings together the equal opportunities officers of the Leibniz Association‘s institutions and those responsible for diversity matters. Hendrikje Wehnert from the IOW has been the elected spokesperson for diversity of the AKCD since 2020.

At the networking meeting of Leibniz institution personnel responsible for diversity

© Herbot-von-Loeper, Leibniz-Gemeinschaft

THE COMMUNICATION WORKING GROUP VISITS THE IOW

The Communication Working Group serves to exchange experiences on issues relating to press and public relations. It develops concepts and measures for the internal and external communication of the Leibniz Association. In June 2024, around 60 participants from various Leibniz institutes met in Warnemünde for the spring meeting at the invitation of the IOW. Topics such as the opportunities and limitations of artificial intelligence, as well as the exchange on new developments in media work, were the focus.

WORKING GROUP ON SUSTAINABILITY MANAGEMENT

The aim of the Leibniz Working Group on Sustainability Management is to promote networking among sustainability actors within the Leibniz Association by providing information and facilitating the exchange of experiences, and to support members in developing and implementing sustainability management. Matthias Premke-Kraus is a member of the working group‘s spokesperson committee. In 2024, the IOW expan ded its vehicle fleet to include two electric cars and a cargo bike.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

The IOW promotes equal opportunities – in other words, truly equal chances for success for all employees. A key focus is gender equality, for example through initiatives supporting women. One of the goals is to increase the proportion of women in all positions/ salary levels where they have been underrepresented, as well as raising the share of women in leadership roles. In addition, during the reporting year, the IOW was active in supporting graduates and international staff. Within the Leibniz Association, the IOW is involved in the Equal Opportunities and Diversity Working Group.

CONTACT PERSONS

Equal Opportunities Officer

Dr. Marion Kanwischer

Dr. Svenja Papenmeier

Diversity Officer

Hendrikje Wehnert

CONFIRMED IN OFFICE

The IOW’s Diversity Officer has once again been elected as spokerperson for diversity for the Leibniz Association.

In November 2024, Hendrikje Wehnert was re-elected as spokerperson for diversity for the Leibniz Association’s Working Group on Equal Opportunities and Diversity. In this role, she is comitted to further strengthening the framework conditions for equal chances for success in all Leibniz institutions and to continuosly developing diversity work within the association.

IN COMPARISON

Implementation of the Leibniz Association‘s equality standards

The Leibniz Association has established standards for gender equality. These cover, among other things, the promotion of women in leadership positions, the compatibility of work and family life, and the integration of equal opportunities as a guiding principle. In 2024, the Leibniz Association surveyed its 96 member institutions on the implementation of these standards. The IOW exemplifies the high level of equal opportunities within

LANGUAGE CONNECTS

German courses for international staff

English is the language of science. However, to enable staff to participate in non-technical conversations, the IOW offers free German courses for international employees at the IOW. This allows them to improve their language skills at work and to exchange with other international employees across departments. The language courses are part of the IOW‘s welcoming culture.

the Leibniz Association. Above-average ratings were given for the embedding of equality and familyfriendly policies. However, the head office noted there is still potential for improvement in the proportion of women in leadership roles. The IOW aims to improve in this area. One measure is to increase visibility and support of the third management level (working group leaders), starting in 2025.

LEADERSHIP IN FOCUS

Postdocs in the “Developing Leadership” programme

In 2024, one senior female researcher and one senior male researcher were successfully nominated by the IOW to participate in the “Developing Leadership” programme of the Leibniz Academy for Executives. Participation in this programme encourages to reflection on leadership roles in science. In doing so, the IOW actively supports the next generation of researchers, creates perspectives for future leadership positions and strengthens diversity in leadership roles.

REVIEW 2024

JANUARY

KICK-OFF FOR THE STB

In January, colleagues involved in the new interdisciplinary research focus “Shallow Water Processes and Transitions to the Baltic Scale (STB),” scheduled to begin in 2023, came together for a kick-off meeting. The new team members, project objectives and work packages were introduced. The focus of the kick-off meeting was getting to know one another and discussing the scientific measures needed to implement the work packages in the coming years.

FEBRUARY

OVERWHELMING MEDIA RESPONSE TO PRESS RELEASE

In mid-February, the publication of the IOW press release “Traces of Ice Age hunters discovered in the Baltic Sea” generated significant international attention for the IOW and its partners, with coverage appearing for over a month in print, online, radio and TV. Around 700 media reports appeared in 30 countries, including CNN, The Guardian, Science, New Scientist and La Stampa.

MARCH

METEOR EXPEDITION M200

During this expedition, the IOW and partners from Aarhus, Bremen and the USA, carried out first detailed investigation of how manganese, nitrogen, carbon and iodine cycles interact in the oxygen-depleted Baltic Sea basins. New elements of the research included high-resolution depth profiles and complex onboard incubation experiments.

APRIL

LONG NIGHT OF SCIENCE

At the Long Night of Science in April, the IOW presented itself once again on the Southern Campus in Rostock alongside other Leibniz Institutes. At the IOW booth in the Technikum of the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis (LIKAT), models, measuring instruments and the research boat “Klaashahn” attracted numerous visitors and sparked many lively discussions.

MAY

OPEN SHIP 2024

In May, the IOW welcomed visitors on board of two research vessels: the MARIA S. MERIAN and the ELISABETH MANN BORGESE. Several hundred guests explored the bridge, laboratories and cabins. At ten information booths and in nine lectures, researchers presented topics such as climate change, plastic waste, coastal protection and sustainable shipping –offering hands-on science for everyone.

“STRANDVISION” ACTION DAY

In April, the Lithuanian environmental initiative “Save the Baltic Sea” visited the IOW. Around 90 people took part in the “StrandVision” action day. A key activity was a systematic beach litter survey: within one hour, participants collected 1,025 pieces of litter, almost half of which originated from beach tourism.

BRIESE AWARD FOR MARINE RESEARCH

In May 2024, the BRIESE Award 2023 was presented to Dr. Hagen Buck-Wiese of the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology in Bremen. The jury honoured his pioneering discovery that brown algae release long-lived sugar polymers, that are hardly degradable, that function as carbon sinks in the sea.

CONTINUATION REVIEW 2024

JUNE AUGUST

ROSTOCK COMPANIES RUN

Once again, the IOW took part in the Rostock Company Run. Three four-person teams represented the institute and were cheered on by colleagues along the 3.5-kilometre course.

SCIENCE@SAIL

In August, the IOW exhibited at the Science@Sail campus during the Hanse Sail event. Visitors to the IOW booth learned about current research topics related to the Baltic Sea. Under the motto “Shaping the future with science”, the event offered a wide range of insights into current marine research.

JULY

THE WARNEMÜNDER ABENDE

After a pause, the IOW once again hosted the “Warnemünde Abende” in 2024 – welcoming around 500 guests. These popular summer events feature accessible lectures by IOW scientists and encourage guests to engage in discussion. Topics ranged from climate change and microplastics to deep-sea drilling in the South Pacific.

INVENTORS‘ CAMP

At this year’s Ocean Technology Campus Inventors‘ Camp in July, twelve schoolgirls with a passion for STEM subjects dived into the world of marine research. Through hands-on experiments, workshops and excursions, they operated underwater robots, built their own measuring stations and learned how ocean technology can advance marine conservation.

SEPTEMBER

COHORT 2024/25: NEW VOLUNTEERS AND TRAINEES

For many years, the IOW has welcomed young people for a Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ) and a Voluntary Year in Science, Technology and Sustainability (FJN). In September 2024, six volunteers and one trainee started their year at the IOW. They work in nearly all departments of the institute, bringing new perspectives to everyday research.

DECEMBER

THE IOW LONG-TERM MONITORING PROGRAMME IN THE UN DECADE

This reporting year, the IOW‘s long-term monitoring programme was recognised as a project of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), honouring its decades of data collection on the state of the Baltic Sea.

OCTOBER

NATIONWIDE CELEBRATION OF GERMAN UNITY DAY

At the celebration in Schwerin in October, the IOW exhibited at the Leibniz Institutes‘ joint booths. For three days, researchers provided information about current Baltic Sea research. The touch table on marine phenomena attracted many visitors, including Minister of Science Bettina Martin.

APPENDIX

Current Projects

Sea Cruises

Publications

Committees

Academic Qualifications

Key Data

Organisational Chart

CURRENT PROJECTS

Research Area 1 – Key Processes Across Scales and Boundaries

PROJECT NAME

FUNDING AGENCY

SFB-TRR 181: Energy transfers in atmosphere and ocean DFG1

LEGRA: Live along the gradient: Analysis of the impact of environmntal parameters on the distribution, diversity and function of benthic communities and their habitats in the southern Baltic Sea and its implications within the European marine conservation directive

NOTION: Nitrogen fixers structuring phytoplankton biodiversity in the ocean under climate change

FunPhy: Fungal infections on phytoplankton – Cryptic perturbation of phytoplankton growth, recycling and sedimentation

MeN-ARP: Metabolism of nitrogen in the Amazon river plume and western tropical North Atlantic

CoTrans: KüNO Umbrella project – Coordination and transfer, lead proposal; Project: Coordination

BluEs: Blue_Estuaries – Developing estuaries as habitable sustainable ecosystem despite climate change and stress, lead proposal, Subproject: Functional diversity and network analysis Oder and Elbe estuary

CYA-REMo: Cyanobakterien im Klimawandel: Ein Blick in die Vergangenheit – Prognosen für die Zukunft

FINO II 2021-2024: Operation of the FINO database, oceanographic measures at the FINO2 platform

NArrFix: Nitrogen argon measures for the quantification of surface water nitrogen fixation in the Baltic Sea

CREATE: Concepts for reducing the effects of anthropogenic pressures and uses on marine ecosystems and on biodiversity; Subproject: Habitat variability and bioarchives as a measure of habitat integrity using the example of the living lab Eckernförde Bay

CONMAR: Concepts for conventional marine munition remediation in the German North Sea and Baltic Sea

1 German Research Foundation

2 Federal Agency for Nature Conservation

3 Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

4 Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency

5 German Marine Research Alliance

FUNDING PERIOD

01.07.2016 –30.06.2024

BfN2 01.01.2019 –31.12.2024

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Hans Burchard

Michael L. Zettler

Fondation BNP Paribas

DFG Emmy Noether Gruppe

15.04.2020 –31.12.2025

01.08.2020 –31.07.2026

DFG 01.11.2024 –31.01.2024

BMFTR3 01.11.2020 –29.02.2024

BMFTR 01.11.2020 –29.02.2024

Maren Voß

Isabell Klawonn

Natalie Loick-Wilde

Ulrich Bathmann

Maren Voß

DFG 01.05.2021 –31.03.2025

BSH4 01.09.2021 –30.11.2024

DFG 01.10.2021 –30.09.2024

BMFTR/ DAM5 01.12.2021 –30.11.2024

Anke Kremp

Erik Stohr

Oliver Schmale

Svenja Papenmeier

BMFTR/ DAM 01.12.2021 –30.11.2024

Ulf Gräwe

SESPOD: Subantarctic Eastern South Pacific surface Ocean Dynamics since the Late Miocene (IODP Expedition 383) DFG

MicroMeth: Methane production by microphytobenthos and its contribution to the benthic methane flux from the coastal zone of the Baltic Sea

BaltChron: Placing the deep Baltic Sea sediment stratigraphy in a precise chronological framework: Improved paleoenvironmental studies and 14C reservoir age calibration DFG

SALINE: Salt intrusion in the tidal Weser as scientific support for the planned Weser adjustment

BAW6

FunSeq: Cryptic cross-kingdom interactions: The impact of fungal parasitism on phytoplankton-bacteria interactions revealed via genome and transcriptome profiling DFG

OCEAN CITIZEN: Marine forest coastal restoration: an underwater gardening socio-ecological plan

EU – Horizon Europe

CofiEs: Coastal filter function under Environmental stress Björn Carlson Preis

Hurri: Lake system response to Caribbean hurricane activity – a calibration study of ostracode (paleo-)biology and geochemistry (Lago Enriquillo, Dominican Republic) DFG

Pelagische Hab II: innovative monitoring of pelagic habitats UBA7

ArKoBi: Investigation of the contribution of Arctica islandica to the carbon storage and biodiversity in the Baltic Sea

BfN

DUAL-CLUMP: Das duale Karbonat-,clumped-isotopeThermometer. Differenzierung zwischen Temperatur, kinetischen und diaginetischen Effekten zur genauen Rekonstruktion von Erdoberflächentemperaturen DFG

MnION: Examination of the link between manganese (Mn) cycling and other elemental redox cycles in the Baltic Sea’s oxygen-depleted basins DFG

SEA-Quester: Blue Carbon production, export and sequestration in emerging polar ecosystems

Moorklimaschutz: Model project for climate protection through peatland restoration; Subproject 1: Reduction of nitrogen emissions from coastal peatlands

6Federal Waterways Engineering and Research Institute

7 German Environment Agency

01.01.2022 –31.07.2024

01.10.2022 –31.12.2028

05.12.2022 –04.09.2025

01.01.2023 –30.04.2026

01.01.2023 –31.12.2024

01.01.2023 –31.12.2026

01.02.2023 –31.01.2026

13.03.2023 –30.11.2024

01.09.2023 –31.01.2026

01.12.2023 –30.09.2026

01.01.2024 –31.12.2025

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Jerome Kaiser Helge Arz

Oliver Schmale

Markus Czymzik

EU – Horizon Europe

BfN

01.02.2024 –30.06.2025

01.02.2024 –31.01.2028

15.03.2024 –14.03.2034

Hans Burchard

Isabell Klawonn

Peter Feldens

Maren Voß

Michael E. Böttcher

Carolin Paul

Michael L. Zettler

Michael E. Böttcher

Volker Mohrholz

Jörg Dutz

Maren Voß

PROJECT NAME

SeaStore II: Srotection and restoration of seagrass meadows in the southern Baltic Sea: Integrative consideration of the greenhouse gas balance in the restoration of seagrass meadows

PICASSO: Process insights into the sources and sinks of methane in the upwelling region of Concepción

BALTICMAGX: Ecological impact of magnetotactic bacteria across redox gradients in the Baltic Sea

BMFTR 01.08.2024 –31.07.2027

DFG 01.09.2024 –28.02.2026

DFG 01.12.2024 –30.11.2027

Research Area 2 – Coastal Seas in Transition

PROJECT NAME FUNDING AGENCY FUNDING PERIOD

Baltic Transcoast: Research Training School “The German Baltic Sea Coast as Terrestrial-Marine Interface of Water and Matter Fluxes”

Baltic Proper spring bloom: Can micro- or mesozooplankton control phytoplankton spring blooms in the Baltic Proper under climate warming?

JERICO-S3: Joint European Research Infrastructure of Coastal Observatories: Science, Service, Sustainability

MeN-ARP: Metabolism of nitrogen in the Amazon river plume and western tropical North Atlantic

COOLSTYLE: Oceans under stress: CARBOSTORE – Carbon storage in German Coastal Seas – Stability, vulnerability and perspectives for managebility

BaltVib: Collaborative project BiodivERsA: Pathogenic Vibrio bacteria in the current and future Baltic Sea waters. Subproject 1: coordination, data management, problem-solving concepts

PaintSed: Paint Particles in Marine Sediment: Interactions with Microbiota and Effects on Sediment Processes

PHYTOARK: Predicting the future from signatures of the past: using living sediment archives and ancient DNA to understand responses of marine primary producers to environmental changes

LABPLAS: Land-Based Solutions for Plastics in the Sea; Plastics in the environment: understanding the sources, transport, distribution and impacts of plastics pollution

DFG 01.01.2016 –31.12.2024

DFG 01.09.2019 –31.05.2025

EU – Horizon 2020 01.02.2020 –31.07.2024

DFG 01.11.2020 –31.01.2024

BMFTR 01.04.2021 –31.07.2024

BMFTR EU BiodivERsA

01.04.2021 –31.03.2024

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Gregor Rehder

DFG 01.05.2021 –31.07.2024

LeibnizWettbewerbsverfahren (SAW)

EU – Horizon 2020

01.05.2021 –30.04.2025

Lars Umlauf Oliver Schmale Klaus Jürgens

Heide Schulz-Vogt

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Maren Voß

Carolin Paul

Gregor Rehder

Maren Voß

Michael E. Böttcher

Matthias Labrenz

Alexander Tagg

Anke Kremp

01.06.2021 –31.05.2025

Juliana Assuncao Ivar do Sul

HyFiVe: Hydrography on Fishing Vessels – joint research project to develop an innovative sensor system used at fishing vessels for autonomous hydrographic measurements, data transfer and analysis

AMMOTRACe: Marine AMMunitiOn dump exploration by surface- and underwater-based laser mass spectrometric TRACing technology

BLE8

01.07.2021 –30.09.2024

BMWE9 01.09.2021 –31.08.2024

DynaDeep: Forschungsgruppe Spurenelemente und Metallisotope: Transformation und Fraktionierung DFG

NArrFix: Nitrogen Argon Measurements for the Quantification of Surface Water Nitrogen Fixation in the Baltic Sea DFG

OTC DaTA: Ocean Technology Campus Rostock: Digital Twin & analytics-embedding semantic visual analytics methods in multisensor data evaluation for functional assistance systems in an industrial context

OTC Stone: Ocean Technology Campus Rostock: Automatic localization and measurement of boulders in acoustic datasets based on neural networks

GESIFUS II: The Genetic Structure of Microbial Communities as a Signature of their Functional Stability

OTC-Genomics: Innovative analytical methods for environmental monitoring of aquatic habitats based on nucleic acid sequencing

Coastal Futures I+II: Ecosystem-supporting Coastal Adaptation Strategies for the German Baltic Sea Coast: Model Studies on the variability and changes of storm surges in the western Baltic Sea

BacDMS: Bacterial transformations of dimethylsulfoniopropionate in the Weddell Sea

MAPUCHE: AImpact of pelagic anoxia in the upwelling area off Concepción and in a pristine anoxic fjord, and the postglacial development of the Patagonian Fjord Region of Chile

PlumeBaSe: Tracing of ship plumes and impact to seawater

MGF-Ostsee II: Effects of bottom contact fishing exclusion in marine protected areas (Natura 2000) of the German EEZ in the Baltic Sea; Development scenarios of benthic communities and sediment functions

8 Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture

9 Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy

01.09.2021 –31.08.2025

01.10.2021 –30.09.2025

BMFTR 01.10.2021 –30.09.2024

BMFTR 01.10.2021 –30.09.2024

01.11.2021 –15.11.2025

BMFTR 01.11.2021 –31.01.2025

BMFTR/ DAM

01.12.2021 –30.11.2027

01.08.2022 –30.06.2025

BMFTR 01.08.2022 –31.10.2024

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Michael Naumann

01.09.2022 –31.05.2026

BMFTR/ DAM 01.03.2023 –28.02.2026

Detlef Schulz-Bull

Michael E. Böttcher

Oliver Schmale

Martin Kolbe

Svenja Papenmeier

Sara Beier

Matthias Labrenz

Markus Meier

Judith Piontek

Heide Schulz-Vogt

Helena Osterholz

Klaus Jürgens

PROJECT

EFFECTIVE: Enhancing social well-being and economic prosperity by reinforcing the eFFECTIVEness of protection and restoration management in Mediterranean MPAs

UBA-MoSEA: Model Simulations for an improved Eutrophication Assessment in the Baltic Sea

COP: Circular Ocean-bound Plastic

ICEstuaries: Exchange flow and mixing in ice-covered estuaries

TRANSEATION: Advancing ecosystem-based management through hybrid blue-grey infrastructures in marine and coastal areas

ElbeXtremeHydro: Extreme hydrodynamic events in the Elbe estuary: scenario studies as basis for ecosystem risk assessment

PrimePrevention: Prediction of marine biological hazards to prevent socio-economic impacts; Project: Monitoring, modelling and assessment of extreme weather events on marine biological hazards in the western Baltic Sea

E-POLIO: Emerging Pollutants and Microplastic Abundance in Surface Waters of Indian Ocean

RETAKE II: CO2-removal by alkalinity enhancement: Potential, benefits and risks: Subproject: Potential effects of benthic carbonate dissolution on the Baltic Sea ecosystem

Pockmarks: Quantitative morphologic analysis of pockmarks around Barkley Canyon (north-east Pacific): spatial and temporal evolution and formation mechanisms

SEADITO: Social-Ecological Analysis and Models for the Digital Twin Ocean

KomSO: Storage capacity for organic carbon in marine sediments of the German Baltic Sea

NAPOLY: Temporal and spatial distribution of microplastics in the deep North Atlantic (2000 m) in relation to environmental factors and concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs)

STATUS: STATUS of the functions of biogenic reefs in the Baltic Sea with a focus on carbon fixation

SUBNORDICA: Beyond submerged landscapes –defining human response to postglacial sea-level rise and climate change

EU – Horizon Europe

UBA

EU – Interreg South Baltic

DFG

EU – Horizon Europe

01.06.2023 –31.05.2027

01.08.2023 –31.12.2025

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Ibrahim Boubekri

Sarah Piehl

01.09.2023 –31.08.2026 Mirco Haseler

01.11.2023 –30.11.2026 Hans Burchard

01.01.2024 –30.06.2027

BMFTR/ DAM 01.01.2024 –31.12.2026

BMFTR/ DAM 01.01.2024 –31.12.2026

Ibrahim Boubekri

Hans Burchard

René Friedland

BMFTR 15.03.2024 –31.07.2026

BMFTR/ DAM 01.08.2024 –31.07.2027

DFG 01.08.2024 –30.04.2026

Joanna J. Waniek

Hagen Radtke

Jacob Geersen

EU – Horizon Europe 01.09.2024 –31.08.2027 Miriam von Thenen

BfN 15.09.2024 –14.11.2027

DFG 01.10.2024 –30.09.2027

BfN

EU – Horizon Europe, Part of ERC-Synergy Grant

01.10.2024 –30.09.2027

01.10.2024 –31.03.2030

Peter Feldens

Joanna J. Waniek

Michael L. Zettler

Jacob Geersen

PROJECT NAME

South Pacific: Orbital and millennial-scale upper ocean dynamics in the Pacific Southern Ocean since the MidPleistocene Transition (IODP 383)

CONMAR II: KCONcepts for conventional MArine Munition Remediation in the German North and Baltic Sea, project: Modelling the drift of explosive-type compounds (STV) in coastal oceans and investigating clearance strategies

DFG

01.11.2024 –31.10.2026

BMFTR/ DAM 01.12.2024 –31.10.2027

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Helge Arz

Ulf Gräwe

Research Area 3 – Emerging Technologies in Coastal Research

PROJECT NAME FUNDING AGENCY FUNDING PERIOD

CRASSOBIOM: The role of host-microbiome interactions in physiological performance of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas in extreme habitats

ECAS-BALTIC: Ecosystem-supporting Coastal Adaptation Strategies for the German Baltic Sea Coast: Model Studies on the variability and changes of storm surges in the western Baltic Sea

C-SCOPE: C-SCOPE: Analyse der CO2-uptake and dynamics under the impact of eutrophication by expanding the CO2 observation network in the Baltic Sea

TouMaLi: Marine litter and sustainable waste management in North-African coastal tourism regions

ASMASYS: BUnified ASsessment framework for proposed methods of MArine CDR and interim knowledge SYnthesiS

RETAKE I: CO2-removal by alkalinity enhancement: potential, benefits and risks, Subproject: Possible direct and indirect consequences of hypothetical near-bottom alkalinity enhancement in the Baltic Sea

CTD_II: Underway data: Development of a CTD-Framework

GEORGE: Next generation multiplatform Ocean observing technologies for research infrastructures

ATMO-SHIP: Shipborne measurement of CO2 and CH4 concentrations in the atmospheric boundary layer (ITMS Module Q&S II)

DFG

01.10.2020 –31.12.2024

BMFTR 01.11.2020 –29.02.2024

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Matthias Labrenz

Ulf Gräwe

BMFTR

01.01.2021 –31.12.2024

BMUKN10 01.05.2021 –31.12.2025

BMFTR/ DAM 01.08.2021 –31.07.2024

BMFTR/ DAM 01.08.2021 –31.07.2024

Henry Bittig

Gerald Schernewski

Gregor Rehder

Hagen Radtke

BMFTR/ DAM 01.01.2023 –31.12.2025

EU – Horizon Europe

01.01.2023 –30.06.2027

BMFTR 01.07.2024 –30.06.2027

10 Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety

Martin Kolbe

Henry Bittig

Gregor Rehder

PROJECT NAME

BALTWRECK: Preventing massive marine waters chemical pollution from the leaking wrecks and munition/ weapon dumps in the South Baltic

HABBAL: BiodivGesundheit2: Assessment of the effect of novel Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) species in the Baltic Sea

O

2-MCA: The Effect of the Medieval Climate Anomaly on Hypoxia in the Baltic Sea: A Coupled Benthic-Pelagic Modeling Approach

OTC-DaTA2Model-E: Ocean Technology Campus Rostock: Living Probabilistic Twins

OTC-Genomics II: Ocean Technology Campus Rostock: Method development for environmental monitoring of aquatic habitats using eDNA

CREATE II: Concepts for Reducing the Effects of Anthropogenic pressures and uses on marine Ecosystems and on Biodiversity: creation of a Baltic Sea bioarchive

FINO II: Operation of the FINO database, oceanographic measures at the FINO2 platform

Transfer projects

EU – Interreg South Baltic

01.07.2024 –30.06.2027

BMFTR 01.08.2024 –31.07.2027

DFG 01.09.2024 –31.08.2027

BMFTR 01.10.2024 –30.09.2027

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Ralf Prien

Ingrid Sassenhagen

Jurjen Rooze

Ralf Prien

BMFTR 01.11.2024 –31.10.2027 Matthias Labrenz

BMFTR/ DAM 01.12.2024 –30.11.2027

BSH

01.12.2024 –30.11.2026

PROJECT NAME FUNDING AGENCY FUNDING PERIOD

OTC-Gender: Ocean Technology Campus Rostock: Promotion of gender equality in underwater professions

OTC Ocean Talents: Ocean Technology Campus Rostock: Talent promotion along different educational pathways

OTC-PromOcean: Ocean Technology Campus Rostock: Diversity, recruiting skilled workers and promoting young talent in ocean technology

BMFTR 01.10.2021 –30.09.2024

BMFTR 01.10.2021 –30.09.2024

BMFTR 01.10.2024 –30.09.2027

Matthias Labrenz

Franz Jendersie

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR AT THE IOW

Oliver Zielinski

Regine Labrenz

Regine Labrenz

SEA CRUISES

CRUISE NO. MISSION

EMB356 BLMP + Long-term monitoring 06.02. – 21.02.2024 Baltic Sea Mohrholz Physics

EMB335 MARNET 26.02. – 01.03.2024 Western Baltic Sea Mars Instrumentation

EMB336 Geo-Praktikum 12.03. – 15.03.2024 Western Baltic Sea Arz Geology

EMB337 BLMP + Long-term monitoring 19.03. – 03.04.2024 Baltic Sea Kuss Chemistry

M200 MnION 22.03. – 09.04.2024 Baltic Sea Mohrholz Physics

EMB338 MARNET 06.04. – 10.04.2024 Western Baltic Sea Mars Instrumentation

EMB339 OTC-Stone 13.04. – 22.04.2024 Western Baltic Sea Papenmeier Geology

EMB340 BLMP + Long-term monitoring

EMB341 MARNET

– 15.05.2024 Baltic Sea Naumann Physics

– 01.06.2024

Baltic Sea Mars Instrumentation

EMB342 MFG II 10.06. – 17.10.2024 German EEZ Gogina Biology

EMB343 LEGRA24 21.06. – 02.07.2024 German EEZ Romoth Biology

EMB344 MARNET 04.07. – 09.07.2024 Western Baltic Sea Mars Instrumentation

EMB345 MFG II TE 16.07. – 03.08.2024 German EEZ Jürgens Biology

SO305/2 E-POLIO 16.07. – 05.08.2024 Indian Ocean Waniek Chemistry

EMB346 BLMP + Long-term monitoring 06.08. – 20.08.2024 Baltic Sea Dutz Geology

EMB347 Plume 24.08. – 31.08.2024 South western Baltic Sea, Kattegat Osterholz Chemistry

EMB351 MARNET 01.11. – 05.11.2024 Western Baltic Sea Mars Instrumentation

EMB353 BLMP + Long-term monitoring 07.11. – 22.11.2024 Baltic Sea Kube Biology

EMB354 PaleoScapes 26.11. – 03.12.2024 Western Baltic Sea Geersen Geology

EMB355 MARNET 09.12. – 14.12.2024 Western Baltic Sea Mars Instrumentation research vessels: EMB – Elisabeth Mann Borgese | SO – Sonne | M – Meteor BLMP – Federal and State Measurement Programme

PUBLICATIONS 2024

Articles in Peer-Reviewed Journals

Ahmerkamp, S., C. O. Pacherres, M. Mosshammer, M. Godefroid, M. Wind-Hansen, M. Kuypers, L. Behrendt, K. Koren and M. Kühl (2024). Novel Approach for Lifetime-Proportional Luminescence Imaging Using Frame Straddling. ACS Sensors 9: 5531 – 5540, doi: 10.1021/acssensors.4c01828

Andrews, A. H., J. P. Eveson, C. Welte, K. Okamoto, K. Satoh, K. Krusic-Golub, B. C. Lougheed, J. I. Macdonald, F. Roupsard and J. H. Farley (2024). Age validation of yellowfin and bigeye tuna using post-peak bomb radiocarbon dating confirms long lifespans in the western and central Pacific Ocean. ICES J. Mar. Sci. 81: 1137 – 1149, doi: 10.1093/icesjms/fsae074

Anschütz, A.-A., M. Maselli, C. Traboni, A. R. Boon and W. Stolte (2024). Importance of integrating mixoplankton into marine ecosystem policy and management – Examples from the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. Integr. Environ. Assess. Manag. 20: 1366 – 1383, doi: 10.1002/ieam.4914

Banerjee, T., P. Scholz, S. Danilov, K. Klingbeil and D. Sidorenko (2024). Split-explicit external mode solver in the finite volume sea ice–ocean model FESOM2. Geosci. Model Dev. 17: 7051 – 7065, doi: 10.5194/gmd-17-7051-2024

Banerjee, T., S. Danilov, K. Klingbeil and J.M. Campin (2024). Discrete variance decay analysis of spurious mixing. Ocean Model. 192: 102460, doi: 10.1016/j.ocemod.2024.102460

Bellon, G., H. Middel, C. Chicco and J. N. Rempel (2024). Changes in cetacean occurrence in Faxaflói Bay, Iceland, as observed from whale watching vessels. NAMMCO Scientific Publications 13, doi: 10.7557/3.7386

Bergman, I., E. S. Lindström and I. Sassenhagen (2024). Ciliate Grazing on the bloom-forming microalga Gonyostomum semen. Microb. Ecol. 87: 33, doi: 10.1007/s00248-024-02344-9

Bick, A. and M. L. Zettler (2024). Description of three new species of Amphitritides Augener, 1922 (Terebellida, Annelida) from the coast of Namibia (South West Africa). Zootaxa 5446: 42 – 64, doi: 10.11646/zootaxa.5446.1.2

Bittig, H. C., E. Jacobs, T. Neumann and G. Rehder (2024). A regional pCO2 climatology of the Baltic Sea from in situ pCO2 observations and a model-based extrapolation approach. Earth Syst. Sci. Data 16: 753 – 773, doi: 10.5194/essd-16-753-2024

Bordbar, M. H., A. Nasrolahi, M. Lorenz, S. Moghaddam and H. Burchard (2024). The Persian Gulf and Oman Sea: Climate variability and trends inferred from satellite observations. Estuar. Coast. Shelf Sci. 296: 108588, doi: 10.1016/j.ecss.2023.108588

Botterell, Z. L. R., F. Ribeiro, D. AlarcónRuales, E. Alfaro, J. Alfaro-Shigueto, N. Allan, N. Becerra, L. Braunholtz, S. Cardenas-Diaz, D. de Veer, G. Escobar-Sanchez, M. V. Gabela-Flores, B. J. Godley, I. Grønneberg, J. A. Howard, D. Honorato-Zimmer, J. S. Jones, C. Lewis, J. C. Mangel, M. Martin, J. P. M. Pérez, S. E. Nelms, C. Ortiz-Alvarez, A. Porter, M. Thiel and T. S. Galloway (2024). Plastic pollution transcends marine protected area boundaries in the eastern tropical and south-eastern Pacific. Mar. Poll. Bull. 201: 116271, doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116271

Böttner, C., C. J. Stevenson, R. Englert, M. Schönke, B. T. Pandolpho, J. Geersen, P. Feldens and S. Krastel (2024). Extreme erosion and bulking in a giant submarine gravity flow. Sci. Adv. 10: eadp2584, doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adp2584

Böttner, C., J. J. L. Hoffmann, D. Unverricht, M. Schmidt, T. Spiegel, J. Geersen, T. H. Müller, J. Karstens, K. J. Andresen, L. Sander, J. Schneider von Deimling and C. Schmidt (2024). The Enigmatic Pockmarks of the Sandy Southeastern North Sea. Geochem., Geophys., Geosyst. 25: e2024GC011837, doi: 10.1029/2024GC011837

Boukheloua, R., I. Mukherjee, H. Park, K. Šimek, V. Kasalický, M. Ngochera, H.-P. Grossart, A. Picazo-Mozo, A. Camacho, P. J. Cabello-Yeves, F. Rodriguez-Valera, C. Callieri, A.-S. Andrei, J. Pernthaler, T. Posch, A. Alfreider, R. Sommaruga, M. W. Hahn, B. Sonntag, P. Lopez-Garcia, D. Moreira, L. Jardillier, C. Lepère, C. Biderre-Petit, A. Bednarska, M. Ślusarczyk, V. R. Tóth, H. L. Banciu, K. Kormas, S. Orlic, D. Šantić, G. Muyzer, D. P. R. Herlemann, H. Tammert, S. Bertilsson, S. Langenheder, T. Zechmeister, N. Salmaso, N. Storelli, C. Capelli, F. Lepori, V. Lanta, H. Henriques Vieira, F. Kostanjšek, K. Kabeláčová, M.-C. Chiriac, M. Haber, T. Shabarova, C. Fernandes, P. Rychtecký, P. Znachor, T. Szőke-Nagy, P. Layoun, H. L. Wong, V. S. Kavagutti, P.-A. Bulzu, M. M. Salcher, K. Piwosz and R. Ghai (2024). Global freshwater distribution of Telonemia protists. ISME J. 18: wrae177, doi: 10.1093/ismejo/wrae177

Breznikar, A., D. L. Pönisch, M. Lorenz, G. Jurasinski, G. Rehder and M. Voss (2024). Rewetting effects on nitrogen cycling and nutrient export from coastal peatlands to the Baltic Sea. Biogeochemistry 167: 967 – 987, doi: 10.1007/s10533-024-01149-9

Brink, A. M., A. Kremp and E. Gorokhova (2024). Quantitative real-time PCR assays for species-specific detection and quantification of Baltic Sea spring bloom dinoflagellates. Front. Microbiol. 15, doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1421101

Bruhns, T., C. Sánchez-Girón Barba, L. König, S. Timm, K. Fisch and I. M. Sokolova (2024). Combined effects of organic and mineral UV-filters on the lugworm Arenicola marina. Chemosphere 358: 142184, doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142184

Burchard, H., M. Alford, M. Chouksey, G. Dematteis, C. Eden, I. Giddy, K. Klingbeil, A. Le Boyer, D. Olbers, J. Pietrzak, F. Pollmann, AS OF 31 JULY 2025

Bange, H. W., P. Mongwe, J. D. Shutler, D. L. Arévalo-Martínez, D. Bianchi, S. K. Lauvset, C. Liu, C. R. Löscher, H. Martins, J. A. Rosentreter, O. Schmale, T. Steinhoff, R. C. Upstill-Goddard, R. Wanninkhof, S. T. Wilson and H. Xie (2024). Advances in understanding of air-sea exchange and cycling of greenhouse gases in the upper ocean. Elem. Sci. Anth. 12: 1, doi: 10.1525/elementa.2023.00044

K. Polzin, F. Roquet, P. S. Saez, S. Swart, L. Umlauf, G. Voet and B. Wynne-Cattanach (2024). Linking ocean mixing and overturning circulation. Bull. Amer. Meteorol. Soc. 105: E1265 – E1274, doi: 10.1175/BAMS-D-24-0082.1

Cabral, A., G. M. S. Reithmaier, Y. Y. Y. Yau, L. C. Cotovicz Jr., J. Barreira, B. Viana, J. Hayden, S. Bouillon, N. Brandini, V. Hatje, C. E. de Rezende, A. L. Fonseca and I. R. Santos (2024). Large Porewater – Derived Carbon Outwelling Across Mangrove Seascapes Revealed by Radium Isotpes. Journal of Geophysical Research – Oceans 129: e2024JC021319, doi: 10.1029/2024JC021319

Cabral, A., Y. Y. Y. Yau, G. M. S. Reithmaier, L. C. Cotovicz, J. Barreira, G. Broström, B. Viana, A. L. Fonseca and I. R. Santos (2024). Tidally driven porewater exchange and diel cycles control CO2 fluxes in mangroves on local and global scales. Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 374: 121-135, doi: 10.1016/j.gca.2024.04.020

Cahill, B., E. Chrysagi, R. Vortmeyer-Kley and U. Gräwe (2024). Deconstructing co-occurring marine heatwave and phytoplankton bloom events in the Arkona Sea in 2018. Front. Mar. Sci. 11: 1323271, doi: 10.3389/fmars.2024.1323271

Chang, Y., X. Li, Y. P. Wang, K. Klingbeil, W. Li, F. Zhang and H. Burchard (2024). Salinity mixing in a tidal multi-branched estuary with huge and variable runoff. J. Hydrol. 634: 131094, doi: 10.1016/j.jhydrol.2024.131094

Chielle, R. S. A., R. V. Marins, M. S. Cavalcante and L. C. Cotovicz Jr. (2024). Seasonal and spatial variability of CO2 emissions in a large tropical mangrove-dominated delta. Limnol. Oceanogr.: online, doi: 10.1002/lno.12471

Chielle, R., T. Meziane, C. E. Rezende, L. C. Cotovicz Jr., G. Abril and R. V. Marins (2024). Fatty acids and stable isotopes distribution in the mangrove dominated Parnaíba River Delta. Estuar. Coast. Shelf Sci. 308: 108934, doi: 10.1016/j.ecss.2024.108934

Choisnard, N., J. Umbricht, M. Araujo, M. E. Böttcher, C. Burmeister, I. Liskow, I. Schmiedinger and M. Voss (2024). Nitrogen assimilation and nitrification in surface waters of the Amazon and Pará estuaries. J. Geophys. Res. Oceans 129: e2024JC021004, doi: 10.1029/2024JC021004

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Moll, D., H. Asmus, A. Blöcker, U. Böttcher, J. Conradt, L. Färber, N. Funk, S. Funk, G. Helene, H.-H. Hinrichsen, P. Kotterba, U. Krumme, F. Madiraca, H. E. M. Meier, S. Meyer, T. Moritz, S. A. Otto, M. Parr, G. Pinto, P. Polte, M.-C. Riekhof, V. Sarrazin, M. Scotti, R. Voss, H. Winkler and C. Möllmann (2024). A climate vulnerability assessment of the fish community in the Western Baltic Sea. Sci. Rep. 14: 16184, doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-67029-2

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Moros, M., A. T. Kotilainen, I. Snowball, T. Neumann, K. Perner, H. E. M. Meier, S. Papenmeier, H. Kolling, T. Leipe, J. S. Sinninghe Damsté and R. Schneider (2024). Giant saltwater inflow in AD 1951 triggered Baltic Sea hypoxia. Boreas 53: 125 – 138, doi: 10.1111/bor.12643

Mredul, M. M. H., E. P. Sokolov, H. Kong and I. M. Sokolova (2024). Spawning acts as a metabolic stressor enhanced by hypoxia and independent of sex in a broadcast marine spawner. Sci. Total Environ. 909: 168419, doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168419

Oggerin, M., T. Viver, J. Brüwer, D. Voß, M. Garcia-Llorca, O. Zielinski, L. H. Orellana and B. M. Fuchs (2024). Niche differentiation within bacterial key-taxa in stratified surface waters in the Southern Pacific Gyre. ISME J. 18: wrae155, doi: 10.1093/ismejo/wrae155

Ostrander, C. M., Y. Shu, S. G. Nielsen, O. Dellwig, J. Blusztajn, H. N. Schulz-Vogt, V. Hübner and C. M. Hansel (2024). Anthropogenic forcing of the Baltic Sea thallium cycle. Environ. Sci. Technol. 58: 8510 – 8517, doi: 10.1021/acs.est.4c01487

Ownsworth, E., M. Moros, J. Lloyd, O. Bennike, J. B. Jensen, T. Blanz and D. Selby (2024). Multi-proxy palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of the Skagerrak from the Lateglacial to Middle Holocene. Boreas 53: 360 – 375, doi: 10.1111/bor.12652

Pagli, B., M. Duphil, S. Jullien, C. Dutheil, A. Peltier and C. Menkes (2024). Wave climate around New Caledonia. Clim. Dyn. 62: 88658887, doi: 10.1007/s00382-024-07365-1

Pham, A. H., N. Choisnard, A. FernándezCarrera, A. Subramaniam, E. K. Strope, E. J. Carpenter, M. Voss and J. P. Montoya (2024). Planktonic habitats in the Amazon plume region of the Western Tropical North Atlantic. Front. Mar. Sci. 11: 1287497, doi: 10.3389/fmars.2024.1287497

Pham, D. N., A. Ruhl, K. Fisch, S. El Toum, S. Heise and I. M. Sokolova (2024). Effects of contamination and warming on ragworms Hediste diversicolor: A laboratory experiment with Oder estuary sediments. Estuar. Coast. Shelf Sci. 299: 108702, doi: 10.1016/j.ecss.2024.108702

Piontek, J., C. Hassenrück, B. Zäncker and K. Jürgens (2024). Environmental control and metabolic strategies of organic-matter-responsive bacterioplankton in the Weddell Sea (Antarctica). Environ. Microbiol. 26: e16675, doi: 10.1111/1462-2920.16675

Piret, L., S. Bertrand, C. Moffat, P. Feldens, S. Papenmeier and H. W. Arz (2024). Recent ice-contact delta formation in front of Pio XI glacier controls sedimentary processes in Eyre Fjord, Patagonia. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms 49: 5054 – 5068, doi: 10.1002/esp.6012

Premaratne, K. M., R. Chandrajith, N. P. Ratnayake, S.-L. Li, K. Gayantha and J. Routh (2024). North Atlantic forcing of Indian Winter Monsoon intensification: Evidence from Holocene sediments from the tropical Indian Ocean Island of Sri Lanka. Holocene 34: 274 – 282, doi: 10.1177/09596836231211875

Rain-Franco, A., H. Peter, G. Pavan de Moraes and S. Beier (2024). The cost of adaptability: resource availability constrains functional stability under pulsed disturbances. mSphere 9: e00727, doi: 10.1128/msphere.00727-23

Receveur, A., C. Menkes, M. Lengaigne, A. Ariza, A. Bertrand, C. Dutheil, S. Cravatte, V. Allain, L. Barbin, A. Lebourges-Dhaussy, P. Lehodey and S. Nicol (2024). A rare oasis effect for forage fauna in oceanic eddies at the global scale. Nat. Commun. 15: 4834, doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-49113-3

Reckhardt, A., R. Meyer, S. L. Seibert, J. Greskowiak, M. Roberts, S. Brick, G. Abarike,

K. Amoako, H. Waska, K. Schwalfenberg, I. Schmiedinger, O. Wurl, M. E. Böttcher, G. Massmann and K. Pahnke (2024). Spatial and temporal dynamics of groundwater biogeochemistry in the deep subsurface of a high-energy beach. Mar. Chem. 267: 104461, doi: 10.1016/j.marchem.2024.104461

Reese, L., U. Gräwe, K. Klingbeil, X. Li, M. Lorenz and H. Burchard (2024). Local mixing determines spatial structure of diahaline exchange flow in a mesotidal estuary: A study of extreme runoff conditions. J. Phys. Oceanogr. 54: 3 – 27, doi: 10.1175/JPO-D-23-0052.1

Reineccius, J. and J. J. Waniek (2024). Critical reassessment of microplastic abundances in the marine environment. Sci. Total Environ. 954: 176449, doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176449

Reineccius, J., M. Heck and J. J. Waniek (2024). Microplastic Particles and Fibers in Seasonal Ice of the Northern Baltic Sea. Toxics 12: 542, doi: 10.3390/toxics12080542

Rengefors, K., N. Annenkova, J. Wallenius, M. Svensson, A. Kremp and D. Ahrén (2024). Population genomic analyses reveal that salinity and geographic isolation drive diversification in a free-living protist. Sci. Rep. 14: 4986, doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-55362-5

Riedinger, D. J., V. Fernández-Juárez, L. F. Delgado, T. Sperlea, C. Hassenrück, D. P. R. Herlemann, C. Pansch, M. Kataržytė, F. Bruck, A. Ahrens, M. Rakowski, K. Piwosz, A. Stevenson, T. B. H. Reusch, G. Gyraitė, D. Schulz-Bull, H. Benterbusch-Brockmöller, S. Kube, S. Dupke, A. F. Andersson, L. Riemann and M. Labrenz (2024). Control of Vibrio vulnificus proliferation in the Baltic Sea through eutrophication and algal bloom management. Commun. Earth Environ. 5: 246, doi: 10.1038/s43247-024-01410-x

Rita, D., A. Borrell, D. Wodarg, G. Víkingsson, R. García-Vernet, A. Aguilar and N. Loick-Wilde (2024). Amino acid-specific nitrogen stable isotope analysis reveals the trophic behavior of Icelandic fin whales in winter and suggests variable feeding strategies. Mar. Mamm. Sci. 40: e13097, doi: 10.1111/mms.13097

Robbe, E., L. B. Abdallah, L. El Fels, N. E. H. Chaher, M. Haseler, F. Mhiri and G. Scher-

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Robbe, E., L. Rogge, J. Lesutienė, M. Bučas and G. Schernewski (2024). Assessment of Ecosystem Services Provided by Macrophytes in Southern Baltic and Southern Mediterranean Coastal Lagoons. Environ. Manage. 74: 206 – 229, doi: 10.1007/s00267-024-01955-9

Rodrigues, J. V., L. C. Cotovicz Jr., N. Beloto, M. R. Gmach and L. E. A. Bezerra (2024). Historical land use changes lead to massive loss of soil carbon stocks in a recovering, semiarid mangrove. Mar. Poll. Bull. 208: 116980, doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116980

Rodríguez-Marconi, S., B. Krock, U. Tillmann, A. Tillmann, D. Voss, O. Zielinski, M. Vásquez and N. Trefault (2024). Diversity of eukaryote plankton and phycotoxins along the West Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland) coast. Front. Mar. Sci. 11: 1443389, doi: 10.3389/fmars.2024.1443389

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Romahn, J., D. Baranski, A. Schmidt, J. Kaiser, H. W. Arz, L. S. Epp, A. Kremp and M. Bálint (2024). Glimpse of past dynamics: A new set of phytoplankton primers for sedaDNA. Environ. DNA 6: e577, doi: 10.1002/edn3.577

Rooze, J., M. A. Zeller, M. Gogina, P. Roeser, J. Kallmeyer, M. Schönke, H. Radtke and M. E. Böttcher (2024). Bottom-trawling signals lost in sediment: A combined biogeochemical and modeling approach to early diagenesis in a perturbed coastal area of the southern Baltic Sea. Sci. Total Environ. 906: 167551, doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167551

Rostami, M., L. Severino, S. Petri and S. Hariri (2024). Dynamics of localized extreme heatwaves in the mid‐latitude atmosphere: A conceptual examination. Atmos. Sci. Lett. 25: e1188, doi: 10.1002/asl.1188

Ruvalcaba Baroni, I., E. Almroth-Rosell, L. Axell, S. T. Fredriksson, J. Hieronymus, M. Hieronymus, S.-E. Brunnabend, M. Gröger, I. Kuznetsov, F. Fransner, R. Hordoir, S. Falahat and L. Arneborg (2024). Validation of the coupled physical-biogeochemical ocean model NEMO-SCOBI for the North Sea-Baltic Sea system. Biogeosciences 21: 2087 – 2132, doi: 10.5194/bg-21-2087-2024

Sabbaghzadeh, B., G. Uher and R. Upstill-Goddard (2024). “Dynamics of chromophoric dissolved organic matter in the Atlantic Ocean: unravelling province-dependent relationships, optical complexity, and environmental influences”. Front. Mar. Sci. 11: 1432133, doi: 10.3389/fmars.2024.1432133

Saez, P. S., C. Eden and M. Chouksey (2024). Evolution of internal gravity waves in a mesoscale eddy simulated using a novel model. J. Phys. Oceanogr. 54: 985 – 1002, doi: 10.1175/JPO-D-23-0095.1

Safonova, K., H. E. M. Meier and M. Gröger (2024). Summer heatwaves on the Baltic Sea seabed contribute to oxygen deficiency in shallow areas. Commun. Earth Environ. 5: 106, doi: 10.1038/s43247-02401268-z

Saghravani, S. R., M. E. Böttcher, W. L. Hong, K. Kuliński, A. Lepland, A. Sen and B. Szymczycha (2024). Distributions of in situ parameters, dissolved (in)organic carbon, and nutrients in the water column and pore waters of Arctic fjords (western Spitsbergen) during a melting season. Earth Syst. Sci. Data 16: 3419 – 3431, doi: 10.5194/essd-16-3419-2024

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Schaub, I., R. Friedland and M. L. Zettler (2024). Good-Moderate boundary setting for the environmental status assessment of the macrozoobenthos communities with the Benthic Quality Index (BQI) in the south-western Baltic Sea. Mar. Poll. Bull. 201: 116150, doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116150

Schernewski, G., G. Escobar Sánchez, S. Felsing, M. Gatel Rebours, M. Haseler, R. Hauk, X. Lange and S. Piehl (2024). Emission, transport and retention of floating marine macro-litter (plastics): The Role of Baltic harbor and sailing festivals. Sustainability 16: 1220, doi: 10.3390/su16031220

Schernewski, G., M. Jekat, F. Kösters, T. Neumann, S. Steffen and M. von Thenen (2024). Ecosystem Services Supporting Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): Assessments of Navigation Waterways Deepening Based on Data, Experts, and a 3D Ecosystem Model. Land 13: 1653, doi: 10.3390/land13101653

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Schmidt, A., J. Romahn, E. Andren, A. Kremp, J. Kaiser, H. W. Arz, O. Dellwig, M. Balint and L. S. Epp (2024). Decoding the Baltic Sea’s past and present: A simple molecular index for ecosystem assessment. Ecol. Indic. 166: 112494, doi: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2024.112494

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Skogen, M. D., J. M. Aarflot, L. M. GarcíaGarcía, R. Ji, M. Ruiz-Villarreal, E. Almroth-Rosell, A. Belgrano, D. Benkort, U. Daewel, M. Edman, R. Friedland, S. Gao, M. Hill-Cruz, S. S. Hjøllo, M. Huret, J. B. Kellner, S. van Leeuwen, A. Lopez de Gamiz-Zearra, M. Maar, E. A. Mousing, M. A. Peck, A. Pastor Rollan, S. F. Sailley, S. Saraiva, C. Speakman, T. Troost and V. Ç. Yumruktepe (2024). Bridging the gap:

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Smrzka, D., J. Zwicker, H. N. Schulz-Vogt, C. T. S. Little, M. Rieder, P. Meister, S. Gier and J. Peckmann (2024). Fossilized giant sulfide-oxidizing bacteria from the Devonian Hollard Mound seep deposit, Morocco. Geobiology 22: e12581, doi: 10.1111/gbi.12581

Socrate, J., E. Verón and G. García (2024). Contributions to the planning of argentine maritime spaces: The Northern Patagonian socioecological system as a case study. Mar. Policy 168: 106322, doi: 10.1016/j.marpol.2024.106322

Socrate, J., E. Verón and M. Chaparro (2024). Public perception of offshore hydrocarbon activities in the North Argentine Basin: a study in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. J. Coast. Conserv. 28: 77, doi: 10.1007/s11852-024-01078-7

Speidel, L. G., R. Carvalho da Silva, M. Beck, O. Dellwig, J. Wollschläger, T. Dittmar and M. Seidel (2024). Rivers and tidal flats as sources of dissolved organic matter and trace metals in the German Bight (North Sea). Biogeochemistry 167: 225 – 250, doi: 10.1007/s10533-024-01117-3

Steinkopf, M., U. Krumme, D. Schulz-Bull, D. Wodarg and N. Loick-Wilde (2024). Trophic lengthening triggered by filamentous, N2-fixing cyanobacteria disrupts pelagic but not benthic food webs in a large estuarine ecosystem. Ecol. Evol. 14: e11048, doi: 10.1002/ece3.11048

Svennevig, K., M. J. Owen, M. Citterio, T. Nielsen, S. Rosing, J. Harff, R. Endler, M. Morlighem and E. Rignot (2024). Holocene gigascale rock avalanches in Vaigat strait, West Greenland—Implications for geohazard. Geology 52: 147 – 152, doi: 10.1130/g51234.1

Taenzer, L., W. Pardis, S. D. Wankel, M. Kolbe, M. Voss, H. N. Schulz-Vogt, C. Burmeister, D. S. Hardisty and C. M. Hansel (2024). Subsurface Superoxide Spans the Baltic Sea. J. Geophys. Res. Oceans 129: e2024JC021438, doi: 10.1029/2024JC021438

Tagg, A. S., T. Sperlea, C. Hassenrück, B. Kreikemeyer, D. Fischer and M. Labrenz

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Umbricht, J., A. Filella, A. Klett, A. Vogts, M. Benavides and M. Voss (2024). Uptake of dissolved inorganic nitrogen and N2 fixation by Crocosphaera watsonii under climate change scenarios. Front. Mar. Sci. 11, doi: 10.3389/fmars.2024.1388214

Umbricht, J., C. Burmeister, J. W. Dippner, I. Liskow, J. P. Montoya, A. Subramaniam and M. Voss (2024). Nitrate uptake and primary production along the Amazon River plume continuum. J. Geophys. Res. Biogeosciences 129: e2023JG007662, doi: 10.1029/2023JG007662

Vajedsamiei, J., N. Warlo, H. E. M. Meier and F. Melzner (2024). Predicting key ectotherm population mortality in response to dynamic marine heatwaves: A Bayesian-enhanced Thermal Tolerance Landscape approach. Functional Ecology 38: 1875 – 1887, doi: 10.1111/1365-2435.14620

Väli, G., H. E. M. Meier, T. Liblik, H. Radtke, K. Klingbeil, U. Gräwe and U. Lips (2024). Submesoscale processes in the surface layer of the central Baltic Sea: A high-resolution modelling study. Oceanologia 66: 78 – 90, doi: 10.1016/j.oceano.2023.11.002

Vanharanta, M., M. Santoro, C. Villena-Alemany, J. Piiparinen, K. Piwosz, H.-P. Grossart, M. Labrenz and K. Spilling (2024). Microbial remineralization processes during post-spring-bloom with excess phosphate available in the northern Baltic Sea. FEMS Microbiol. Ecol.: online, fiae103, doi: 10.1093/femsec/fiae103

Vedenin, A. A., I. Kröncke, A. J. Beck, A. Bodenbinder, E. Chrysagi, U. Gräwe, M. Kampmeier and J. Greinert (2024). Spatial structure and biodiversity of macrofauna around marine munition dumpsites - A case study from the Baltic Sea. Mar. Poll. Bull. 198: 115865, doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115865

Veeningen, R., A. Fall, M. E. Böttcher, P. Eichhubl, K. Decker and B. Grasemann (2024). Deformation and fluid flow history of a fractured basement hydrocarbon reservoir below the Sab’atayn Basin, Habban Field, Yemen. Mar. Pet. Geol. 169, doi: doi. org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2024.107082

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Tagg, A. S. and M. Labrenz (2024). Impacts of Climate Change on Microbial Communities in the Baltic Sea. Oxford Research

Encyclopedia of Climate Science, doi: 10.1093/acrefore/9780190228620.013.892

Zettler, M. L. (2024). Bericht über das 42. Kartierungstreffen der Arbeitsgruppe Malakologie Mecklenburg-Vorpommern vom 3. bis 5. Mai 2024 in Kamminke (Landkreis Vorpommern-Greifswald). Mitt. Dtsch. Malakozool. Ges. 111: 63-71, http://www.dmg. mollusca.de/images/mitteilungen_dmg/ mitteilungen111/mitt_dmg_111_063071_zettler.pdf

Individual Contributions to Edited Journals

Böttcher, M. E., U. Mallast, G. Massmann, N. Moosdorf, M. Müller-Petke and H. Waska (2024). Coastal-Groundwater Interfaces (Submarine Groundwater Discharge). In: Ecohydrological Interfaces. Ed. by S. Krause, D. M. Hannah and N. B. Grimm. 1st ed. Newark: John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated: 123 – 147, 978-1-119-48966-5

Brandt, P., M. H. Bordbar, P. Coelho, R. A. I. Koungue, M. Körner, T. Lamont, J. F. Lübbecke, V. Mohrholz, A. Prigent, M. Roch, M. Schmidt, A. K. van der Plas and J. Veitch (2024). Physical drivers of southwest African coastal upwelling and its response to climate variability and change. In: Sustainability of Southern African Ecosystems under Global Change: Science for Management and Policy Interventions. Ed. by G. P. von Maltitz, G. F. Midgley, J. Veitch, C. Brümmer, R. P. Rötter, F. A. Viehberg and M. Veste. Cham: Springer International Publishing: 221 – 257, 978-3-031-10948-5, doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-10948-5_9

Gogina, M., I. Kröncke, D. Marx and M. L. Zettler (2024). Status und Trends der biologischen Vielfalt an Küsten und in Küstengewässern. Zoobenthos. In: Faktencheck Artenvielfalt: Bestandsaufnahme und Perspektiven für den Erhalt der biologischen Vielfalt in Deutschland. Ed. by C. Wirth, H. Bruelheide, N. Farwig, J. M. Marx and J. Settele. München: oekom 681 – 684, 978-3-98726-095-7, doi: 10.14512/9783987263361

ICES, J. Beermann, S. Birchenough, M. Blomqvist, R. Boschen-Rose, L. Buhl Mortensen, J. Craeymeersch, J. Dannheim, S. Degraer, N. Desroy, A. Donnay, E. Farrell, L. Guérin, S. Glorius, L. Healy, H. Hillewaert,

M. Gogina, Y. Griffiths, W. Hunter, U. Janas, C. Labrune, P. Magni, H. Nygård, E. Oug, S. Parra, H. Reiss, H. C. Trannum, J. Vanaverbeke, G. Van Hoey, J. Warzocha, A. Wrede and M. L. Zettler (2024). Benthos Ecology Working Group (BEWG; outputs from 2023 meeting) (BEWG). In: ICES Scientific Reports. Ed. by J. Craeymeersch and P. Magni. International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) – Conseil International pour l’Exploration de la Mer (CIEM) 06: 26, doi: 10.17895/ices.pub.27257232.v1

Oschlies, A., N. Mengis, G. Rehder, E. Schill, H. Thomas, K. Wallmann and M. Zimmer (2024). Mögliche Beiträge geologischer und mariner Kohlenstoffspeicher zur Dekarbonisierung. In: Klimawandel in Deutschland: Entwicklung, Folgen, Risiken und Perspektiven. Ed. by G. P. Brasseur, D. Jacob and S. Schuck-Zöller. Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer Berlin Heidelberg: 449 – 458, doi: 10.1007/978-3-662-66696-8_35

Zielinski, O. (2024). Geleitwort. In: Regenerative Zukünfte und künstliche Intelligenz. Ed. by K. Gondlach, B. Brinkmann, M. Brinkmann and J. Plath. Wiesbaden: Springer 1: XIII-XV, 978-3-658-43585-1, doi: 10.1007/978-3-658-43586-8

Monographs

Kremp, A., J. Dutz and M. L. Zettler (2024). Biological assessment of the Baltic Sea 2021. Rostock: Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde. 89 S. (Meereswissenschaftliche Berichte = Marine Science Reports; 124), doi: 10.12754/msr-2024-0124

Marx, D., K. Romoth, S. Papenmeier, J. Valerius, S. Eisenbarth and K. Heinicke (2024). Die Biotope des Meeresbodens im Naturschutzgebiet “Kadetrinne”. Bonn: Bundesamt für Naturschutz. (BfN-Schriften; 690), doi: 10.19217/skr690

Matthäus, W. (2024). Die Forschungsschiffe und autonomen Messsysteme des Instituts für Meereskunde Warnemünde – ihre Geschichte und ihr Verbleib. Rostock: Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde. 111 S. (Meereswissenschaftliche Berichte = Marine Science Reports; 126), doi: 10.12754/msr-2024-0126

Naumann, M., U. Gräwe, L. Umlauf, H. Burchard, V. Mohrholz, J. Kuss, M. Kanwischer, H. Osterholz, S. Feistel, I. Hand, J. J. Waniek and D. E. Schulz-Bull (2024). Hydrograph-

ic-hydrochemical asse2ssment of the Baltic Sea 2022. Warnemünde: Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research. (Meereswissenschaftliche Berichte), doi: 10.12754/msr-2024-0127

Naumann, M., U. Gräwe, V. Mohrholz, J. Kuss, M. Kanwischer, H. Osterholz, S. Feistel, I. Hand and J. J. Waniek (2024). Hydrographic-hydrochemical assessment of the Baltic Sea 2023. Warnemünde: Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research. (Meereswissenschaftliche Berichte), doi: 10.12754/msr-2024-128.

Tagg, A. and M. Labrenz (2024). The Microplastic Pollution Problem and the sea. “Mum, can we play in the sand?” A child-centric microbiology education framework. 12 S., http://www.imili-eah. com/api/profile/upload/2024/02/22/

The%20microplastic%20pollution%20problem_20240222101604A314.pdf

Thonicke, K., E. Rahner, A. Arneth, A. Bonn, N. Borchard, A. Chaudhary, M. Darbi, T. Dutta, U. Eberle, N. Eisenhauer, N. Farwig, C. G. Flocco, J. Freitag, P. Grobe, R. Grosch, H. P. Grossart, A. Grosse, K. Grützmacher, N. Hagemann, B. Hansjürgens, A. Hartman Scholz, C. Hassenrück, C. Häuser, T. Hickler, F. Hölker, U. Jacob, S. Jähnig, K. Jürgens, S. Kramer-Schadt, C. Kretsch, C. Krug, J. P. Lindner, L. Loft, C. Mann, B. Matzdorf, M. Mehring, R. Meier, K. Meusemann, D. Müller, M. Nieberg, J. Overmann, R. S. Peters, L. Pörtner, P. Pradhan, A. Prochnow, V. Rduch, C. Reyer, C. Roos, C. Scherber, N. Scheunemann, S. Schroer, A. Schuck, G. B. Sioen, S. Sommer, N. Sommerwerk, F. Tanneberger, K. Tockner, H. van der Voort, T. Veenstra, P. Verburg, M. Voss, B. Warner, W. Wende and K. Wesche (2024). 10 Must-Knows aus der Biodiversitätsforschung 2024. Potsdam: Leibniz-Forschungsnetzwerk Biodiversität. 72 S. doi: 10.5281/zenodo.10794361

Zettler, M. L., A. Kremp and J. Dutz (2024). Biological assessment of the Baltic Sea 2022. Rostock: Leibniz-Institut für Ostseeforschung Warnemünde. 86 S. (Meereswissenschaftliche Berichte = Marine Science Reports; 125), doi: 10.12754/msr-2024-0125

Working and Discussion Papers

Ahola, M., L. Bergström, M. Blomqvist, D. Boedeker, F. Börgel, I. Carlén, T. Carlund, J. Carstensen, J. P. A. Christensen, J. De La Cueva, M. Futter, E. Gaget, O. Glibko, M. Gröger, V. Dierschke, C. Dieterich, M. Frederiksen, A. Galatius, B. Gustafsson, C. Frauen, A. Halkka, C. Halling, N. Heibeck, J. Holfort, M. Huss, K. Hyytiäinen, K. Jürgens, M. Jüssi, M. Kallasvuo, M. Kankainen, B. Karlson, A. M. Karlsson, M. Karlsson, A. Kiessling, E. Kjellström, A. Kontautas, D. Krause-Jensen, A. Kremp, K. Kuliński, S. Kuningas, J. Käyhkö, J. Laht, A. Laine, M. Labrenz, G. Lange, A. Lappalainen, T. Laurila, M. Lehtiniemi, K.-O. Lerche, U. Lips, G. Martin, M. McCrackin, H. E. M. Meier, N. Mustamäki, B. Müller-Karulis, R. Naddafi, L. Niskanen, A. Nyström Sandman, J. Olsson, O. Outinen, D. Pavón-Jordán, J. Pålsson, M. Rantanen, A. Razinkovas-Baziukas, G. Rehder, J. H. Reißmann, M. Reutgård, S. Ross, A. Rutgersson, J. Saarinen, L. Saks, O. Savchuk, G. Schernewski, J. Schumacher, M. Sofiev, K. Spich, G. Srėbalienė, S. Suikkanen, J. Särkkä, M. Viitasalo, J. Vielma, J. Virtasalo, I. Wallin, R. Weisse, J. Wikner, W. Zhang, E. Zorita and Ö. Östman (2024). Climate Change in the Baltic Sea 2024 Fact Sheet. HELCOM Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission - Helsinki Commission. https://helcom. fi/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/BalticSea-Climate-Change-Fact-Sheet_2024.pdf

Auge, T., S. Feistel, F. J. Ekaputra, M. Klettke, S. Jürgensmann, E. Michels and L. Waltersdorfer (2024). Towards an Integrated Provenance Framework: A Scenario for Marine Data. 2024 IEEE European Symposium on Security and Privacy Workshops, Vienna, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers: 597-601

Bathmann, U., P. Braun and I. Meinke (2024). Abschlussbericht des KüNO III Dachprojektes – Koordination und Transfer (CoTrans).

Björner, M., F. Furkert, A. Hermann, R. Wagner, S. Neubert and M. Naumann (2024). Evaluation of Low-Cost Hydrographic Sensors for Increased Monitoring Density in Coastal Oceans. 2024 IEEE Sensors Applications Symposium (SAS), Naples, Italy: 1 – 5 doi: 10.1109/SAS60918.2024.10636439

Estelmann, A. and R. D. Prien (2024). Cryptophane A-Based Methane Sensing in the Aqueous and Gas Phase. OCEANS 2024 –

Halifax, Halifax, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers: 01-08 doi: 10.1109/OCEANS55160.2024.10754500

Feistel, R. (2024). Thermodynamics of Water in the “Steam Engine” Climate. Gibbs Award Lecture, 18th International Conference on the Properties of Water and Steam, 24 June 2024, Boulder, USA doi: 10.13140/RG.2.2.22056.75522

Gebbe, R., K. Kesy, D. Hallier, A. Brauer, S. Bertilsson, M. Labrenz and M. M. Bengtsson (2024). The ecology of potentially pathogenic Vibrio spp. in a seagrass meadow ecosystem. bioRxiv: 2024.06.15.599152, doi: 10.1101/2024.06.15.599152

Kreuzburg, M., C. Baatz, L. Bednarz, M. Böttcher, C. Merk, T. Morganti, L. Tank, W. B. Yao, H. Wehnert and G. Rehder (2024). Unified ASsessment framework for proposed methods of MArine CDR and interim knowledge SYnthesiS (ASMASYS). Rostock: 1 – 38 S. doi: 10.3289/CDRmare.37

Krüger, F., D. Waltemath, R. Ludwig, M. Schröder, U. Henny-Krahmer, S. Spors, S. Scheel, R. Schneider, J. Novak, S. Schmidt, S. Schick, K. Yordanova, S. Al-Suadi, M. Becker, H. Beelich, D. Bläsing, C. Brock, I. Bruder, K. Budde-Sagert, C. Cap, H. Dieckmann, A. Dorhoi, M. Dörr, A. Eggert, T. Fennel, H. Fischer, W. Flügge, L.-A. Garbe, P. Gröber, K.M. Henkel, R. Henkel, K. Hoff, F. Jansen, S. Jürgensmann, H. Jürß, R. Kammerer, D. Kaunaite, L. Kennes, M. Kerntopf, J. Kiesendahl, S. Klinger, U. Kragl, S. Kroll, K. Kubisch, R. Köhling, K. Labahn, H. Lebert, M. Manzke, J. Matela, P. Mattern, F. Meinel, J. Michael, H. Murua Escobar, M. Premke-Kraus, I. Rusch, C. Schmidt, C. Schmidt, F. Schmitt, S. Schnell, D. Schwerdt, J. Sender, A. Stahl, M. Stanke, G. Szepannek, A. Theise, M.-A. Weber, F. Winkelmann, C. Winterhalter, J. Wodke, F. Woitzel, N. Wrage-Mönnig and O. Zielinski (2024). Bedarfsermittlung für die FDM-Landesinitiative in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern: Ergebnisse des Vernetzungstreffens Forschungsdatenmanagement vom 04.12.2023. Zenodo. doi: 10.5281/zenodo.10798387

Lindmark, M., F. Maioli, S. C. Anderson, M. Gogina, V. Bartolino, M. Sköld, M. Ohlsson, A. Eklöf and M. Casini (2024). Quantifying competition between two demersal fish species from spatiotemporal stomach content data. bioRxiv, doi: 10.1101/2024.04.22.590538

Löschke, S., M. Kreuzburg, G. Rehder, M. Böttcher, L. Tank, C. Baatz and ASMASYSKonsortium (2024). CDRmare Insights: Neuer Leitfaden: Marine CO2-Entnahmemethoden und -projekte einheitlich und wissensbasiert bewerten. 1 – 8 S. doi: 10.3289/CDRmare.40

Markfort, G., H. Schröder and O. Zielinski (2024). Digitalization and Augmentation of ROV Operations. OCEANS 2024 – Halifax, Halifax, IEEE: 1-5 doi: 10.1109/ OCEANS55160.2024.10754227

Meier, M. and K. Kulinski (2024). Scientific cooperation under changing geopolitics. Baltic Rim Economies 4/2024 – Germany. https://www.centrumbalticum.org/en/ publications/baltic_rim_economies/baltic_rim_economies_4_2024_-_germany/ markus_meier_karol_kulinski_scientific_ cooperation_under_changing_geopolitics

Prien, R. D. and M. Floth-Peterson (2024). Oxygen Optode Profiles – A Closer Look on Facts and Artefacts. OCEANS 2024 – Halifax, Halifax, NS, Canada, IEEE: 1-6

Rodiouchkina, K., S. Goderis, O. Karatekin, P. Claeys, M. E. Böttcher, F. Vanhaecke, C. Senel, I. Rodushkin, O. Temel, J. Vellekoop and P. Kaskes (2024). Reduced contribution of sulfur to the mass extinction associated with the Chicxulub impact event. EarthArXiv Preprints, doi: 10.31223/X5M99H

Saghravani, S. R., M. E. Böttcher, W. L. Hong, K. Kuliński, A. Lepland, A. Sen and B. Szymczycha (2024). Distributions of in situ parameters, dissolved (in)organic carbon, and nutrients in the water column and pore waters of Arctic fjords (western Spitsbergen) during a melting season. Earth Syst. Sci. Data Discuss. 2024: 3419-3431, doi: 10.5194/essd-16-3419-2024

Spilling, K., M. Vanharanta, M. Santoro, C. Villena-Alemany, M. Labrenz, H.-P. Grossart and K. Piwosz (2024). Effects of excess phosphate on a coastal plankton community. bioRxiv: 2024.02.05.576994, doi: 10.1101/2024.02.05.576994

Vanharanta, M., M. Santoro, C. Villena-Alemany, J. Piiparinen, K. Piwosz, H.-P. Grossart, M. Labrenz and K. Spilling (2024). Microbial remineralization processes during post-spring-bloom excess phosphate in the northern Baltic Sea. bioRxiv: 2024.02.02.577174, doi: 10.1101/2024.02.02.577174

COMMITTEES OF IOW

AS OF 31 DECEMBER 2024

Board of Govenors

Woldemar Venohr (Chair)

Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Head of department 3

Dr. Zage Kaculewski (Deputy Chair)

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), Head of department 724

Peter Grönwoldt

Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), Department 724

Holger Wandsleb

Ministry for Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs Western Pomerania, Head of department 340

Prof. Helge Heegewaldt

President of the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency

Prof. Dr. Elizabeth Prommer

Rector of the University of Rostock

Prof. Dr. Katja Fennel

(Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board)

Dalhousie University, Kanada

Sabine Müller

Managing Director Innomar Technology Rostock

Scientific Advisory Board

Prof. Dr. Katja Fennel (Chair) Dalhousie University, Kanada

Prof. Dr. Heinz Wilkes (Deputy Chair) University of Oldenburg, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment

Prof. Dr. Katarina Abrahamsson University of Gothenborg, Schweden

Prof. Dr. Gerhard Herndl University Wien, Österreich

Prof. Dr. Christian Hübscher University Hamburg, Marine Seismics and Hydroakustics, Germany

Prof. Dr. Jack Middelburg University of Utrecht, Netherlands

Dr. Uta Passow Memorial University of Newfoundland, Kanada

Prof. Dr. Niels Peter Revsbech Aarhus University, Denmark

Prof. Dr. Anna Rutgersson Uppsala University, Sweden

Scientific Council

PERMANENT MEMBERS

Prof. Dr. Helge W. Arz Head of department Marine Geology

Prof. Dr. Michael E. Böttcher Deputy Head of department Marine Geology

Prof. Dr. Klaus Jürgens Deputy Head of department Biological Oceanography

Prof. Dr. Markus Meier Head of department Physical Oceanography and Instrumentation

Dr. Volker Mohrholz

Deputy Head of department Physical Oceanography and Instrumentation

Prof. Dr. Gregor Rehder Head of department Marine Chemistry

Prof. Dr. Heide Schulz-Vogt Head of department Biological Oceanography

Prof. Dr. Joanna Waniek Deputy Head of department Marine Chemistry

ELECTED MEMBER OF THE DEPARTMENTS

Dr. Henry Bittig (Spokesperson) Department Marine Chemistry

Dr. Florian Börgel Department Physical Oceanography und Instrumentation

Dr. Jacob Geersen Department Marine Geology

Dr. Isabell Klawonn Department Biological Oceanography

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS

Doctorates 2024

Noémie Joseph dit Choisnard

Aspects of the N-cycle of the Amazon River plume. University of Rostock

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Maren Voß

Gabriela Dangl

Microbial community dynamics and nitrous oxide production in the Benguela Upwelling System. University of Rostock

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Klaus Jürgens

Sophie Kache

Bentho-pelagic transport of methanotrophs at methane gas seep sites.

University of Rostock

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Maren Voß

Lev Naumov

Hypoxia in various coastal seas: Modelling and comparison.

University of Rostock

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Markus Meier

David Riedinger

Predictors of Vibrio vulnificus occurence: A machine learning approach.

University of Rostock

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Matthias Labrenz

Esther Robbe

Ecosystem service assessments of the coastal zone: Case studies and management implications. University of Klaipeda

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Gerald Schernewski

Jacqueline Umbricht

Nitrogen assimilation and phytoplankton communities in changing environments.

University of Rostock

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Maren Voß

Anna Katharina Wittenborn

A comprehensive study for the application of proxies based on glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers in the Baltic Sea.

University of Greifswald

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Helge Arz

Mo Zhou

Analysis and tracking chlorinated hydrocarbons: PCB, DDT and HCB in Baltic Sea sediments.

University of Rostock

Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Joanna Waniek

ORGANISATIONAL CHART

AS OF 31. DECEMBER 2024

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Woldemar Venohr (Ministry of Science, Culture, Federal and European Affairs of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania) (Chair)

Dr Zage Kaculevski (Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space) (Deputy)

SCIENTIFIC COUNCIL

Dr. Henry Bittig (Spokesperson) DIRECTOR

Prof. Dr. Oliver Zielinski

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Prof. Dr. Heide Schulz Vogt

ADMINISTRATION

Beatrix Blabusch

Finance/Human Resources/ Facility Management

SCIENCE MANAGEMENT

Dr. Matthias Premke-Kraus Communications/Library

SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD

Prof. Dr. Katja Fennel (Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Kanada)

COASTAL SEAS & SOCIETY

Prof. Dr. Gerald Schernewski

Miriam von Thenen (Deputy)

OFFICERS AND REPRESENTATIVES

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

OFFICER

Dr. Marion Kanwischer

Dr. Svenja Papenmeier (Deputy)

STAFF COUNCIL

Christian Burmeister

OMBUDSPERSON

Dr. Peter Holtermann

Prof. Dr. Maren Voß

DIVERSITY OFFICER

Hendrikje Wehnert

WORK SAFETY

Una Reck

DEPARTMENTS

BIOLOGICAL OCEANOGRAPHY

Prof. Dr. Heide Schulz-Vogt

Prof. Dr. Klaus Jürgens (Deputy)

RESEARCH AREAS

MARINE GEOLOGY

Prof. Dr. Helge Arz

Prof. Dr. Michael Böttcher (Deputy)

PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY & INSTRUMENTATION

Prof. Dr. Markus Meier

Dr. Volker Mohrholz (Deputy)

RA 1: KEY PROCESSES ACROSS SCALES AND BOUNDARIES

RA 2: COASTAL SEAS IN TRANSITION

RA 3: EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN COASTAL RESEARCH

CENTRAL SERVICES

ANALYTICS GROUP

Dr. Marion Kanwischer

Una Reck

NANOSIMS Dr. Angela Vogts

IT & DATAMANAGEMENT

Dr. Steffen Bock

MARINE CHEMISTRY

Prof. Dr. Gregor Rehder

Prof. Dr. Joanna Waniek (Deputy)

IMPRINT

PUBLISHER

Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW)

Seestraße 15

18119 Rostock info@leibniz-iow.de www.leibniz-iow.de

EDITOR

Dr. Matthias Premke-Kraus, Hendrikje Wehnert

TRANSLATION

Elisabeth Harris

This publication was created using AI-based tools, including text generation and research tools. The editorial team was responsible for the editorial content and final quality control.

The publication is available for download on the IOW website: https://www.iow.de/annualreports.html

DESIGN

JAKOTA Design Group GmbH

IMAGE CREDITS (UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED)

Prien, IOW: pp. 2/3, 58

Schmale, IOW: p. 4

Holtermann, IOW: p. 6

saitec: p.6

Nietz, IOW: p.7

Raeke, DWD: p.7

Meeske: p. 8

Premke-Kraus, IOW: p. 38, 46

WERK3: p. 41

Cwierz, IOW: p. 48

Giovanazzi, Leibniz-Gemeinschaft: p. 55

Wehnert, IOW: pp. 64/65

IOW: p. 87, 89

Gohlke: Cover

As of December 2025

LEIBNIZ INSTITUTE FOR BALTIC SEA RESEARCH WARNEMÜNDE (IOW)

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