Grant recipient: Postdoc Sascha Schiøtt, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources
PhD and postdoctoral stipends 2024
Ilulissat Icefjord is a unique marine environment, characterized by the encounters between ice, sea and climate. The fjord is not only a breathtaking sight, but also home to a wide range of species, such as ringed seals and Greenland halibut, which are of great importance to the local community, economy, and culture. But despite the fjord’s ecological and economic importance, there are still large gaps in our understanding of the fundamental processes that maintain its biodiversity.
A new research effort is now focusing on the bottom of the food chain: plankton. Sascha Schiøtt, researcher at Greenland Institute of Natural Resources (GINR), will now begin uncovering the role of plankton in the ecosystem of Ilulissat Icefjord with a postdoc grant from the Greenland Research Council. The project builds on her master’s and PhD projects.
Plankton as the foundation of the food chain
Phytoplankton and zooplankton play a central role in the marine ecosystem as the primary source of energy for many of the fjord’s species. Phytoplankton – microscopic plants – harness the sun’s energy to produce organic matter via photosynthesis, while zooplankton, which includes small animals such as microscopic crustaceans and fish larvae, feed on smaller plankton and themselves serve as food for larger organisms.
Ilulissat Icefjord’s climate and inaccessible ice cover have long made it difficult to collect research data from the area. To overcome these challenges, the project will use innovative methods, including the use of ringed seals and arctic char as “biological tools”.
“The fact that we cannot sail in Ilulissat Icefjord with Sanna or Tarajoq (GINR research vessels) poses some limitations that eDNA technology and other biological samples can compensate for,” says Sascha Schiøtt.
“The role of plankton can be difficult to understand when you can’t see them with the naked eye,” Sascha explains. “By analyzing plankton samples collected with special nets and examining the stomach contents of ringed seals and Arctic char, I can access zooplankton samples that would otherwise be difficult to collect.”
Climate change and future management
Ilulissat Icefjord is particularly vulnerable to climate change, which can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. Changes in sea temperature, ice cover and nutrient cycles can affect plankton productivity and thus the entire food chain.
“The project will map the connections between plankton and larger species, generating knowledge to support the institute’s advice on the sustainable management of marine resources. It can also contribute to a broader understanding of how climate change affects Arctic marine ecosystems,” says Sascha Schiøtt.
Collaboration with local fishermen and hunters
Collaboration with local fishermen and hunters, who possess deep knowledge of the Ilulissat Icefjord’s ecosystem and resources, is a central element of Sascha Schiøtt’s research.
“It’s their hunting and fishing grounds that I’m stepping on, so, of course, I’m collaborating with them”, explains Sascha.
Local actors contribute with unique knowledge about the rhythms of the ocean, wildlife behavior, and ice conditions. “They know the seasonal patterns of the areas and can often predict where to find certain species or changes in the environment. They help validate my results with their knowledge. It is this combination of knowledge that allows us to create a more nuanced understanding of the fjord,” says Sascha.
A foundation for future research
This research represents an important step towards uncovering the complex ecology of the Ilulissat Icefjord. By focusing on the role of plankton in the food chain, Sascha Schiøtt hopes that her project can contribute to a deeper understanding of how the fjord supports its rich life.
“The hidden world of plankton shows us that even the smallest organisms play a crucial role in maintaining this cohesive ecosystem,” concludes Sascha Schiøtt.
Contact
Sascha Schiøtt, postdoc at Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, tel: +299 361240, e-mail: sasc@natur.gl
Secretary Maliina Jensen, Greenland Research Council, tel.: +299 361200, e-mail: maje@nis.gl
Published 16 January 2025
