GEOMAR  Research  Marine Biogeochemistry  Biological Oceanography  Biogeochemical Processes

KOSMOS mesocosms: 7,000 to 60,000 litres

The KOSMOS mesocosms: depending on the study the individual units contain between 7,000 and 60,000 litres of water including the microorganisms living in them.
Photo: Michael Sswat, GEOMAR

Two of 12 mesocosms in use on Helgoland

Two of the 12 'small' mesocosms during a study on Helgoland, Germany, in 2023.
Photo: Michael Sswat, GEOMAR

Transparent mesocosm bags for natural light and ambient temperature

The mesocosm bags are made of transparent film in order to maintain the natural light conditions and the same water temperature as the surroundings.
Photo: Michael Sswat, GEOMAR

Regular sampling in mesocosms with water samplers and plankton nets

The mesocosms are sampled at regular intervals with water scoops and plankton nets.
Photo: Michael Sswat, GEOMAR

At the lower end of the mesocosms: funnel-shaped sediment trap for sinking particles

The lower end of the mesocosms ends in a funnel, the sediment trap, in which sinking particles can be collected and pumped out.
Photo: Michael Sswat, GEOMAR

Wave pump in the Atlantic to investigate CO₂ removal by artificial upwelling

Using a wave pump in the Atlantic to study artificial upwelling, a possible method of CO2 removal in the ocean.
Photo: Michael Sswat, GEOMAR

Biogeochemical Processes

Our questions:

  1. Does marine plankton react to environmental changes in the ocean?

  2. What effects does this have on ecosystems?

  3. How does this change biogeochemical cycles?

Our goals:

  • Understanding biological processes at the organism level

  • Assessment of the evolutionary adaptation potential

  • Explaining the consequences of ecological changes for biogeochemical cycles

Ocean Acidification

Alkalinity Enhancement

Artificial Upwelling

KOSMOS

Mesocosms

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