Action #3: Extreme events affecting phytoplankton – AQUACOSM collaboration III

Objectives: The Action identifies the extreme events in the CRETAN PSS area. It studies the improved ways to analyse the effects of extreme events on phytoplankton communities with existing systems, via multiple sensors, multiple platforms, and mesocosms. In parallel, improved calibration practices for sensors used in oligotrophic conditions are examined. A joint mesocosm experiment is planned with AQUACOSM-plus, aiming to provide support in the continuous monitoring of phytoplankton responses in mesocosms. The Action improves regional synergies between experimental and observational marine communities studying the same ecological questions.

Action Lead and other Partners (with contact persons): SYKE (Seppälä, Ylöstalo), HCMR (Frangoulis), CNRSMIO (Thyssen), NIVA (King, Marty).

JS3 Platforms included: Poseidon Calibration Lab (PCL). Non-JERICO-S3 platforms: HCMR mesocosm, HCMR underwater biotechnological park (UBPC).

Other data sources and external partners for implementation: Meteo, atmospheric data from nearby meteo, and atmospheric stations (e.g. Finokalia).

Overall timetable of action:

Dec 2020 to Dec 2021: Collection of field data. 

Jan to April 2021: Analysis of field data to identify relationships to extreme events.

May 2022: Optimal sensors used in a mesocosm experiment with participation of HCMR, CNRS-MIO, SYKE, NIVA, and other partners from AQUACOSM-plus.

Description of action: Key PPS features: Collaboration element between RIs JERICO-S3 – AQUACOSM-plus to address common themes, establish long-term cooperation with co-design actions and priorities set.

Based on the outcome of various tests of sensors (see Action #5), a set of phytoplankton and carbonate JERICO-S3 tested sensors will be used during a mesocosm experiment simulating an extreme event. Planning of this activity will be made jointly with other PSSs having similar activities (GoF PSS, NW-MED PSS) and Task 2.2.

In parallel, analyse field data to spot relationships with various extreme events. Communicate the outcome of analysis (parameters to monitor) to AQUACOSM-plus.

Best practices used or developed: exchange of procedures, practices, methodologies with AQUACOSM-plus.

Data flows: in situ data handled by CMEMS INS TAC. Mesocosm data flow following principles set by AQUACOSM-plus.

Data QC routines: QC procedures comply with CMEMS INS TAC. Mesocosm data QC follow principles set by AQUACOSM-plus

Data management issues: joint data management with AQUACOSM-plus during mesocosm experiments.

Expected results: improved calibration of sensors, improved monitoring of mesocosms, feasibility, and comparability of methods under oligotrophic conditions.

Users of results: Scientists, industry

Dissemination of results: During the mesocosm experiment presentations between AQUACOSM-plus and JERICO-S3 participants. In addition, dissemination in AQUACOSM-plus meetings, jointly with GoF PSS and NW-MED PSS. Via tweets and JERICO-S3, AQUACOSM-plus websites.

Links: Strong between PSS-link and link to AQUACOSM-RI community are evident. Additional link to between RI-collaboration in WP2, T2.2, showing how the collaboration within the region and between regions may be arranged.