EQO stands at the forefront of biotechnology, specializing in the revolutionary fields of environmental RNA (eRNA) and environmental DNA (eDNA) to revolutionize the diagnosis and rejuvenation of global aquatic ecosystems, ultimately ensuring the health of water bodies worldwide.
Understanding the Distinction:
In our pursuit of environmental health, EQO employs both eRNA and eDNA, two formidable tools in the realm of environmental sciences. eDNA, a resilient molecule, acts as an archival repository containing the complete genetic information of a species, serving as a historical record of its past or present presence in a given environment. In contrast, the more delicate eRNA provides a fleeting yet dynamic glimpse into the active cellular processes of organisms, akin to observing a culinary recipe in the process of creation.
Harnessing Molecular Insights:
By leveraging the unique strengths of eRNA and eDNA, EQO delivers real-time snapshots and comprehensive archives of aquatic ecosystems. This approach enables us to provide actionable insights and informed decision-making tools for those responsible for the stewardship of these environments. Much like a skilled detective piecing together the intricate puzzle of aquatic health, our technologies empower environmental professionals to monitor, diagnose, and address issues promptly and effectively.
Real-time Snapshots:
The utilization of eRNA allows us to capture the current state of cellular activities within aquatic ecosystems. It's akin to witnessing the vibrant choreography of life as it unfolds, offering invaluable insights into the dynamic processes occurring within water bodies in real time.
Comprehensive Archives:
On the other hand, eDNA serves as the timeless librarian, holding the genetic history of species within an environment. This comprehensive archive allows us to trace the footprints of various organisms throughout time, providing an invaluable historical perspective on the biodiversity and ecological health of aquatic ecosystems.
Actionable Insights for Environmental Stewardship:
By integrating these molecular insights, EQO transforms complex biological data into actionable information. Whether it's monitoring the presence of endangered species, assessing the impact of pollution, or tracking the spread of invasive species, our technologies empower decision-makers to implement effective strategies for the preservation and restoration of aquatic ecosystems.
In essence, EQO's commitment to harnessing biotechnology, coupled with the nuanced understanding of eRNA and eDNA, positions us as pioneers in the quest for sustainable aquatic environments globally.
In the vast and enigmatic water columns of the Northwest Passage and Arctic Ocean, our expedition is dedicated to an intricate examination of sea ice throughout its entire route. The objective is to autonomously characterize the multifaceted aspects of sea ice, encompassing both its physical and biological properties. This meticulous analysis includes the measurement of key factors such as thickness, extent, snow cover, and light penetration, all while closely scrutinizing the presence of fauna and algae growth within this frozen ecosystem.
The amalgamation of our observations and measurements within each domain serves a cohesive purpose: to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship and current state of climate change and its impacts on marine life in the Canadian Arctic, extending from coast to coast. To achieve this ambitious goal, Expedition Audacity (EA) employs a sophisticated array of sensor systems seamlessly integrated into remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
EA's strategic focus on sea ice thickness and extent involves the utilization of a diverse set of sensors. These include ice-penetrating radar, thermal imaging, sonar, light intensity sensors, and cameras. This sensor suite enables precise estimations of sea ice characteristics, encompassing thickness, permeability (indicative of the melting phase), temperature, light penetration, and the presence of ice algae. The data obtained through these advanced methods facilitates a comprehensive monitoring of sea ice properties, providing valuable insights into its latitudinal, seasonal, and spatial dynamics along the expedition's carefully planned transect.
This ambitious and comprehensive sea ice monitoring initiative stands as a pivotal endeavor in advancing our comprehension of the profound repercussions of climate change on Arctic ice cover. The wealth of data collected by EA contributes not only significant insights into the ongoing environmental transformations within the region but also sheds light on the broader implications of climate change for the intricate Arctic landscape. As stewards of scientific exploration, our commitment is unwavering in unraveling the complex dynamics that govern the delicate balance of the Arctic environment.
The global outlook for polar bears is grim, with a faint chance of a small subpopulation surviving in the extreme Arctic. This hinges on ongoing global temperature trends. Professor Peter Molnar from the University of Toronto Scarborough told The New York Times that even with moderate emissions reduction aligned with the Paris Climate Accord, there's a significant risk of losing polar bear populations, especially in the southernmost regions. This bleak fate is closely linked to the ongoing loss of sea ice, a crucial part of their habitat.
As global temperatures rise, the challenges faced by polar bears become more evident. Their survival relies on sea ice for vital activities like hunting, resting, and breeding. Southernmost populations, in particular, are on the frontline as diminishing sea ice deprives them of essential hunting grounds and disrupts their natural behaviors.
While emissions reduction is crucial for climate change mitigation, it may not suffice to reverse short-term sea ice loss. This underscores the urgent need for broader conservation efforts to protect polar bear habitats. As these creatures confront an uncertain future, proactive measures to ensure their existence become imperative. This is a call to action not just for species conservation but also for preserving the delicate ecological balance of the Arctic, a region serving as a barometer for broader climate change consequences.
Join us on a journey into the extraordinary realms of exploration as each team member takes the helm of their own unique research project. These individual scientific odysseys promise to unravel mysteries, ignite curiosity, and contribute groundbreaking insights. Brace yourself for a thrilling expedition into the uncharted territories of knowledge, where innovation meets discovery in every researcher's quest. Welcome to a world of intellectual wonders – welcome to our Individual Research Projects!
Molecular sample Optimization of RNA from the Environment
Embarking on the pioneering endeavor known as Project MORE (Molecular sample Optimization of RNA from the Environment), Expedition Audacity is poised to redefine the landscape of marine genomic sampling protocols. The project's multifaceted objectives are aimed at advancing our understanding of marine ecosystems through the strategic utilization of the state-of-the-art Calypso instrument.
The first objective involves the development of a standardized protocol for the collection of marine genomic samples, meticulously measuring sample volumes at different depths and assessing collection times. The intricacies of sample volume to proximity relationships are scrutinized, unraveling the nuanced dynamics of abundance concerning species observed at varying distances from the target.
Moving forward, the project shifts its focus to establishing the sensitivity of molecular sampling in the marine environment. This entails a comprehensive exploration of the relationship between sample volume and environmental RNA (eRNA) and DNA (eDNA) sensitivity. The project seeks to determine the number of microbial and non-microbial sequences, as well as the subsequent relationship between sample volume and read counts.
A significant aspect of Project MORE involves a comparative analysis between the Calypso's capabilities and traditional in situ marine photo transect survey methods. By performing phototransects and video transects at reef sites through SCUBA diving and underwater imagery, Expedition Audacity aims to analyze benthic and water column species. This comprehensive evaluation extends to estimating marine species biodiversity and abundance from transects, creating a nexus between traditional and molecular results.
The project also aspires to optimize the standardized protocol for shipboard collections, delving into the intricate relationship between sample volume and distance, as well as evaluating the efficacy of different survey methods. A critical exploration includes assessing whether qPCR eRNA+eDNA data can provide accurate estimates of abundance, offering a glimpse into the potential of molecular techniques for marine species assessment.
In an optional yet forward-thinking trajectory, Project MORE explores advanced identification methods, including human and AI-driven approaches, providing a glimpse into the future of marine genomic research. With the potential to revolutionize our understanding of marine ecosystems, Project MORE stands as an ambitious and cutting-edge scientific pursuit, promising to unlock unprecedented insights into the complexities of the world beneath the waves.
Shark Tales: Love, beauty and cultural connection of humans and sharks in South American coastal communities.
Embark on a captivating journey into the depths of human-shark connections within the coastal communities of South America. This research, born out of the urgent need to understand and conserve threatened shark species, delves into the intricate tapestry of cultural, emotional, and artistic relations with these enigmatic creatures. In an era where negative portrayals hinder conservation efforts, the study raises profound questions about whether love and beauty can be the transformative keys to reshape perceptions and catalyze a paradigm shift.
Rejecting the notion that sharks are mere mindless monsters, the research aims to uncover the individualities of these oceanic beings and explore the personal narratives that define their interactions with humans. It advocates for treating sharks as distinct entities, acknowledging that personal stories are crucial in shaping attitudes toward them. Love, beauty, folklore, and art emerge as pivotal elements that contribute to a holistic understanding of sharks beyond scientific data.
The research's objectives encompass a comprehensive exploration of local sentiments and personal interactions, delving into cultural history, folklore, and artistic expressions related to sharks within South American coastal communities. A key focus is to map knowledge holders—those who possess a deep understanding of sharks from scientific, local, and expert perspectives.
The methodology employs a transdisciplinary human-shark approach, integrating grounded theory and mixed methods. Field visits, lasting 4-5 days at each location where the ship is anchored, will facilitate data collection through surveys, interviews, and the collection of visual and auditory data related to art and cultural expressions. Purposeful and snowball sampling methods will be utilized to ensure diverse perspectives are captured.
As the expedition unfolds, the aim is not only to amass valuable knowledge but also to curate an exhibition. This exhibition will serve as a powerful medium to showcase the deep, multifaceted relations between humans and sharks. By bringing the artwork to the general population and the global community, the research seeks to bridge gaps in understanding and foster appreciation for the profound connection between humans and sharks. Through the lens of love, beauty, and cultural narratives, the study aspires to ignite a shift in perception, emphasizing the role of these elements in marine conservation and promoting a harmonious coexistence with these remarkable marine creatures.
Exploring the Abyss: Unveiling the Secrets of Deep Ocean Sharks along the South American Coastline with Expedition Audacity
Embark on an extraordinary odyssey into the enigmatic depths of the South American coastline with Expedition Audacity, where the mysteries of the deep-sea sharks unfold in a captivating research project. In a realm where these elusive creatures roam, this initiative takes a pioneering step to unveil the hidden behaviors and habitats of deep ocean sharks, pushing the boundaries of marine knowledge and exploring uncharted territories. The project harnesses the power of cutting-edge Remote Control Vehicles (ROVs), equipped with state-of-the-art technology, to delve into the heart of the ocean and bring forth unprecedented insights into the lives of these ancient and mysterious beings.
The objectives of this groundbreaking project are as diverse as the ocean itself. From identifying the potential presence of larger deep-sea sharks to documenting their behaviors in their natural habitat, the research weaves a tapestry of knowledge by intertwining geographical and environmental factors. The ROVs, armed with advanced tools including a 4K camera, Fluorometer, Radiometer, CTD, Sonar, Laser scaler, and Grabber, become the eyes and ears of this journey, plunging into the depths to unravel the secrets that lie beneath.
The research method unfolds through meticulous dives, an anticipated total of approximately 100, along the South American coastline. Guided by opportunistic and purposive sampling, the ROVs reach depths of 800-900 meters, identifying safe locations for observation and collecting crucial environmental data. As the second ROV, equipped with a 4K camera and feeder, descends to await encounters with deep-sea sharks, a symphony of data is collected. This includes environmental conditions, geographical features, and the mesmerizing behaviors of these elusive inhabitants.
Driven by collaboration with esteemed scientists like Dr. Andrej A. GAJIĆ, Head Scientist at National Geographic and Discovery Inc., the project aims not only to uncover scientific data but to weave a comprehensive narrative. The 4K camera captures the essence of deep-sea life, offering visuals that transcend the realm of science into the realms of wonder and awe. This ambitious endeavor promises to unravel the mysteries of deep-sea sharks and contribute to climate-smart conservation efforts in the region, fostering a deeper understanding of these ancient denizens and their crucial role in the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem. As Expedition Audacity navigates the depths, it carries with it the spirit of exploration, discovery, and a commitment to unveiling the beauty and importance of these underwater realms.
Whale Cultures Unveiled: A Multisite Exploration of Interspecies Relationships Across Oceans
Embarking on a journey of intellectual discovery, Iro unveils the intricacies of interspecies relationships through her groundbreaking project, "Whale Cultures Unveiled." This multisite comparative research endeavor is not just a scientific exploration; it is a narrative woven with threads of cultural richness, diverse locations, and the enthralling tales of marine beings.
Iro's quest is nothing short of a cultural odyssey, seeking to decipher the nuanced dynamics between local populations and whales across the vast expanse of our oceans. The project intricately weaves together historical narratives of whaling with the contemporary tapestry of marine tourism, whale watching, and research activities. It is a symphony of human and cetacean cultures, a dance of traditions and evolving relationships.
At its core, Iro's research is an artistic portrayal of the kaleidoscopic variations in seemingly similar practices. It peels back the layers of cultural norms and customs, illustrating the adaptability and fluidity inherent in these connections. The study's significance reverberates beyond academic realms, resonating with the urgency for a culturally sensitive and location-dependent approach to conservation and ecotourism. It beckons us to rethink our conservation discourse, recognizing that each locale is a unique chapter in the story of marine life.
The research unfolds like a captivating drama, spotlighting regions like the Sea of Cortez, Central American Coast, and the Galapagos Islands in a comparative ballet. It is within these varied settings that the intricate choreography of whale watching practices takes center stage. Through this comparative analysis, Iro unveils insights that are not just informative but transformative, shaping the future of responsible whale watching.
Adding a touch of mystique to the narrative, Iro employs cutting-edge methods to track individual whales across these diverse locations. Using techniques like photo identification, hydrophone data, and platforms like HappyWhale, the study becomes a voyage into the personal stories of these majestic beings. It is a revelation of migratory patterns, personal encounters, and the unique experiences of whales as they navigate the seas.
In essence, Iro's research is more than a scientific contribution; it is a cultural revelation. It is a testament to the profound interplay between human and cetacean societies, between tradition and evolution. As the narrative unfolds, it beckons us to adopt nuanced and adaptable approaches in our collective endeavors to conserve marine life and foster sustainable coexistence. It is an odyssey of discovery, inviting us to embrace the harmonies between human cultures and the awe-inspiring cultures of the ocean's gentle giants.
Culinary Crossroads: Exploring Tradition, Cuisine, and Sustainability in Multifaceted Narratives
In this research endeavor, our aim is to delve into the intricate intersections of cuisine, culture, and sustainability. Across the various locations we visit, the primary focus will be on traditional cuisine and its profound connections to cultural elements such as tradition, gender, folklore, and stages of life. We seek to unravel the role of food as medicine and examine how traditional relationships with food intertwine with the contemporary narrative of sustainability.
Within the realm of ocean conservation, we intend to explore fishing and cuisine as integral parts of the relationship between people, animals, and nature. This exploration includes an analysis of how these relationships can be juxtaposed with modern mass production, overfishing, and other contemporary challenges. A significant aspect of our inquiry involves understanding how people perceive and relate to marine animals as sources of nutrition and prey.
The overarching theme remains the relationality between humans and non-human entities, and we aspire to conduct a multisite comparative analysis across the diverse locations we visit.
Alternatively, we contemplate narrowing our focus to cetaceans and marine life. This would involve exploring, in the different places across the continent, how people perceive and relate to these animals. We aim to understand why certain animals are viewed as sources of food while others are not and how these relationships are embedded within local cultures.
The research will also integrate a filming aspect, capturing the essence of this exploration. Having individuals on board who can share their culinary expertise, teach chefs, and engage in communal dining experiences further enhances the immersive nature of our investigation. Through these interactions, we aim to showcase the rich tapestry of relationships between people, their culinary practices, and the marine world.
Phytoplankton Dynamics: Unraveling Climate Impacts from the Bottom Up
How do shifts in the relative abundances of phytoplankton species correlate with both biotic and abiotic factors? In terms of biotic factors, what is the impact of variations in ice phytoplankton abundance on pelagic phytoplankton? On the abiotic front, how are environmental changes such as alterations in light levels, salinity, temperature, and nutrient availability influencing these phytoplankton dynamics?
Naomi is embarking on a comprehensive survey targeting both ice phytoplankton and pelagic phytoplankton, aiming to collect intricate data on the presence and abundance of various species. Simultaneously, she seeks to amass environmental data at each sampling site, focusing on key parameters such as light levels, salinity, temperature, and nutrient concentrations in the water and ice. This two-pronged approach serves dual purposes: firstly, to make substantial contributions to global biodiversity counts, with particular emphasis on the dynamic and remote locations accessible during the upcoming expedition. Secondly, the collected data will be harnessed to gain profound insights into how climate change is intricately influencing the ecology of Arctic ecosystems from the foundational level.
The observed shifts in phytoplankton species compositions and distributions, attributed to ocean warming and ice melt, underscore the need to unravel these changes comprehensively. Understanding these shifts is a critical step toward anticipating the broader impacts on marine ecosystems. The acquired information is poised to become a crucial asset, providing nuanced insights into the potential alterations our oceans might undergo in the coming years. Furthermore, these findings are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping conservation policies, ensuring their informed and effective implementation.
The unique access to fast-changing and remote locations during the expedition adds a distinctive dimension to the study, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of biodiversity dynamics in challenging environments. Naomi's research endeavors not only contribute to the ongoing global efforts in biodiversity assessment but also hold the promise of unraveling the complex interplay between environmental shifts and marine life in Arctic ecosystems. This bottom-up approach is crucial for deciphering the intricate mechanisms at play and for fostering a more profound comprehension of the impacts of climate change on our oceans. Ultimately, this research aligns with the broader goal of informed conservation practices, providing a blueprint for addressing the challenges posed by climate change in vulnerable and remote ecosystems.
eDNA Monitoring: Unleashing Swift and Open-Access Insights into Biodiversity Dynamic
Is it feasible to develop an efficient approach for the swift generation of valuable open-access eDNA data?
The daunting challenge of biodiversity loss looms large over our planet, posing a significant threat to the intricate web of life that sustains us all. The preservation of biological diversity is paramount for ensuring the health and resilience of ecosystems, which in turn directly impacts the well-being of our global community. In this context, eDNA monitoring emerges as a groundbreaking and scalable method for expeditiously conducting functional biodiversity assessments, offering a powerful tool to predict and proactively address adverse changes.
Biodiversity loss, driven by various anthropogenic activities, has far-reaching consequences, affecting ecosystems and the services they provide. As species disappear or decline, the intricate balance of ecosystems becomes disrupted, leading to cascading effects that touch every corner of the planet. Addressing this crisis necessitates innovative and efficient methods to monitor and assess biodiversity trends in real-time.
Enter environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring—a transformative approach that allows for the detection and analysis of genetic material shed by organisms into their environment. This technique provides a non-intrusive and highly sensitive means of assessing the presence and diversity of species within a given ecosystem. The beauty of eDNA lies in its ability to capture a snapshot of biodiversity without direct contact with the organisms, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional survey methods.
The potential of eDNA monitoring extends beyond the mere documentation of species presence. It opens the door to a rapid and scalable functional biodiversity assessment, enabling scientists and conservationists to gain insights into the health and dynamics of ecosystems. By analyzing the genetic material present in environmental samples—ranging from soil and water to air—researchers can piece together a comprehensive understanding of the biodiversity within a particular habitat.
One of the key advantages of eDNA monitoring is its adaptability to various environments and taxa. Whether assessing terrestrial, freshwater, or marine ecosystems, and regardless of the targeted organisms—be they plants, animals, or microorganisms—eDNA offers a versatile tool for researchers to swiftly and comprehensively survey biodiversity.
Moreover, the open-access nature of eDNA data adds an additional layer of significance. By making the generated data freely available, researchers and conservationists can collaborate globally, pooling resources and insights to create a collective understanding of biodiversity patterns and trends. This democratization of data not only accelerates the pace of scientific discovery but also empowers diverse stakeholders to contribute to conservation efforts.
The quest to address biodiversity loss requires innovative and efficient tools, and eDNA monitoring stands at the forefront of these efforts. Its ability to rapidly generate valuable open-access data transforms the landscape of biodiversity research, offering a scalable approach that can inform predictions and interventions to safeguard the intricate tapestry of life on Earth. As we confront the challenges of the Anthropocene, the continued development and application of eDNA technologies hold great promise for preserving the biodiversity upon which our shared future depends.
Patagonian Kelp Chronicles: Mapping, Conservation, and Climate Insights
In the vast expanse of the southern coastlines of South America, dense kelp beds, akin to marine forests, flourish. The primary inquiry at hand is the identification of keystone kelp species in Patagonia and the examination of how their distribution evolves across latitudinal gradients.
Given the considerable length of our expedition, a unique opportunity presents itself to systematically map Patagonia's marine forests along latitudinal lines. In Argentina, the utilization of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) becomes imperative to monitor the extent of Undaria pinnatifida, a highly invasive subtidal kelp that is progressively colonizing extensive stretches of the Atlantic Patagonian coast. Simultaneously, drones will be deployed in Patagonia to construct high-resolution geospatial maps of intertidal Macrocystis pyrifera, the dominant structural kelp in Pacific Patagonian marine forests. The examination of kelp species across latitudinal gradients, though challenging due to immense distances, is essential for a nuanced understanding of ecological diversity in response to variables such as temperature, light, tidal cycles, and competition.
This project's significance lies in its potential to establish a repository of baseline data pertaining to kelp geography. The data, with a commitment to public accessibility, can be offered to institutions in Chile and Argentina, fostering collaborative efforts before extending to North America. By discerning the current range and abundance of native and invasive algae, we pave the way for future scientific investigations, bolstering climate and conservation research.
Kelp, integral to the protection of sandy beaches and the provision of sanctuary for fish from predators, plays a vital role in marine ecosystems. Their capacity to sequester carbon and offer habitat to diverse marine life renders them as crucial to the oceans as trees are to terrestrial environments. The imperative to understand the current state of kelp in Patagonia arises from the urgency to gauge potential disappearance, given the alarming rate of depletion in other regions globally. Establishing this baseline is pivotal, allowing subsequent scientific, conservation, and policy initiatives to formulate informed and evidence-based conclusions.
Drawing an analogy to decision-making, akin to evaluating the sale of Trump Tower without knowledge of recent skyscraper sales, values, or buyers, underscores the importance of assessing kelp conservation without a baseline. In Patagonia, wild kelp not only sustain a commercially viable blue economy but also face challenges from invasive algae along the Atlantic coast. The conservation of these ecosystems is imperative for the health of our oceans and the well-being of communities reliant on them.
Exploring Arctic Zooplankton Dynamics: Unveiling Interconnections with Phytoplankton and Environmental Factors
How does the abundance of smaller zooplankton correlate with the availability of phytoplankton and key abiotic factors like salinity and sea water temperature?
The Arctic waters remain largely unexplored, presenting a remarkable opportunity for this expedition to delve into the intricacies of Arctic zooplankton abundance. The research not only aims to deepen our understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing zooplankton populations in the Arctic but also strives to compile an extensive dataset detailing plankton biodiversity and abundance in this region. Unraveling the mechanisms influencing zooplankton abundance holds the potential to elucidate their responses to climate change. One hypothesis suggests that the melting of sea ice allows more light to penetrate the water column, potentially keeping zooplankton at deeper depths for extended periods (1).
Employing innovative methods, the expedition introduces a novel sampling technique: the planktoscope (2). This device captures images of water samples and employs recognition algorithms to identify organisms present. Leveraging the open-source database EcoTaxa, the plankton collected can be classified up to the highest taxonomic levels. This method streamlines the analysis of samples and, notably, enables sampling at specific depths. Consequently, it offers a heightened understanding of the vertical distribution of phyto- and zooplankton across the water column, shedding light on their potential correlation with salinity and temperature at specific depths. Through these advancements in sampling technology, the research endeavors to unravel the complex relationships between zooplankton, phytoplankton, and key environmental factors, contributing valuable insights to our comprehension of Arctic marine ecosystems.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.