Climate Change Reshapes Plankton Communities in the Baltic Sea | DNA Metabarcoding Reveals Complex Ecosystem Dynamics

In this episode of SciBud, join Rowan as we explore a groundbreaking study revealing the impacts of climate change on the often-overlooked plankton communities in the Baltic Sea. Discover how researchers at the Tvärminne Zoological Station employed innovative techniques, such as DNA metabarcoding and traditional microscopy, to uncover the intricate relationships between warming temperatures and salinity changes on these crucial marine organisms. Delve into the complexities of how these environmental stressors may reshape marine food webs, favoring fast-growing taxa at the expense of biodiversity. As we dissect the research's strengths and limitations, we’ll highlight the importance of combining modern and traditional scientific methods to better understand and protect our aquatic ecosystems amidst the unfolding challenges of climate change. Tune in and spark your curiosity about the hidden undercurrents of science! Link to episode page with article citation: www.scibud.media/podcast/season/2025/episode/166