Biodiversity, function and health of marine ecosystems

We perform long-term biogeochemical and biodiversity monitoring and assess the effects of climate change on coastal ecosystems.

We characterize seawater warming, acidification and microbial biodiversity in the Mediterranean Sea and provide projections for the Catalan Coast.

We study the photo- and biodegradation of chemical compounds, from sunscreens and plastic to natural organic carbon, and we are developing sensors to analyze fluorescent dissolved organic matter released by plastic in seawater.

We develop scientific knowledge (criteria and indicators of multiple pressures in coastal and offshore waters) to define the state of the marine environment, a significant challenge in the implementation of the Water Framework Directive and Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

We assess marine microbial biodiversity from DNA-sequence information of viruses, prokaryotes and protists.

We identify enzymatic capabilities involved in the degradation of plastics or petroleum-derived compounds.

We measure the expression in the environment of key genes related to biogeochemistry or bioremediation.

We develop monitoring programs for harmful algal blooms and provide practical guidance for accurate and reliable plankton diversity estimates by implementing and maintaining diverse time series stations to obtain long-term ecosystem and biodiversity data.

We develop gene-based technologies to improve production of targeted microorganisms for various purposes, such as sewage treatment, biomass production, biostimulants and bioremediation.

We can help the microalgae production industry to optimize growth conditions, prevent pests and disease outbreaks and to increase productivity.

We identify new genomic-editing systems using marine metagenomics.

We develope advanced early warning systems in the coastal marine environment to detect or predict ecosystem disturbances, based on changes in water quality, productivity and biodiversity, as well as the presence of sentinel organisms and toxic substances.

We identify genes in marine sponges

We develop specific jellyfish cultures to be used for scientific and industrial research projects, including obtention and extraction of substances for use in biomedical, food and cosmetic research.

Additionally, we look for genes that have antibiotic or nutritionally valuable properties, such as omega-3 production, anti-inflammatory and lesion treatments, and potential new materials.