Biodiversity

Marine biodiversity encompasses the diversity of life in the oceans and seas, from tiny microorganisms to large marine mammals. It includes the genetic diversity within species, the diversity of species themselves and the diversity of habitats, such as coral reefs, deep-sea trenches and mangroves. This biodiversity is crucial for the functioning of ecosystems, oxygen production and climate regulation. It also provides livelihoods for millions of people, for example through fishing and tourism. The threats to marine biodiversity are numerous, including overfishing, pollution, climate change and habitat loss. The protection and sustainable use of marine biodiversity is therefore crucial to ensure the health of the oceans and the quality of life on Earth.

Typical questions are:

• What will the future of biodiversity be like in a changing world?
• What is the role of deep-sea communities in regulating biochemical fluxes on the sea floor?
• Will the ecological services provided by the ocean remain under a warmer climate?