North Sea heat wave triggered deep underwater plankton bloom hidden from satellites
Researchers found that a June 2023 marine heat wave in the North Sea caused a significant increase in phytoplankton beneath the surface that satellites missed.
Satellite observations showed limited surface changes
Space-based instruments detected only a short rise in plant life near the top of the water column. This view from orbit failed to capture the full extent of the biological activity occurring below.
Autonomous glider revealed deeper ecosystem shifts
Scientists used an unmanned vehicle to track conditions in the northwestern North Sea during the extreme warming event. The device recorded a much stronger and longer lasting increase in microscopic organisms at depth compared to surface readings.
Study results published in scientific journal
The team from the U.K.'s National Oceanography Centre shared their findings with the public through a recent publication. Their work highlights how major changes in marine environments can happen under the ocean without being seen from space.
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