Aurelia Koch » Germany

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Succession of macroalgae at artificial reefs in Vejle Fjord, Denmark

Macroalgae are some of the world´s most important primary producers. Generating more than half of the world´s oxygen, the protection of marine flora is more important than ever in the face of a changing climate. Warming temperatures in the oceans threaten marine species globally. Therefore, the protection of marine ecosystems is crucial to combat and mitigate effects of climate change. Furthermore, a change in environmental conditions and the globalization of commerce lead to an increase in invasive species. My project focuses on the identification of macroalgae at artificial reefs in Vejle Fjord, Denmark. I am identifying different species of algae from the implementation of the reefs up to this year, looking for the change in size and species as well as determining the natural succession and potentially invasive species. Additionally, I am trying to detect possible correlation of anthropogenic and environmental influences by considering several environmental parameters, such as nutrient load, temperature, and salinity. My work takes place in the lab for marine algae at the University of Coimbra (UC) working with the team of Professor Leonel Pereira. As I now have completed most of my research in the lab, I am working a lot from home or different cafés in Coimbra writing and analysing my data.