Scientists Urge Modernization of Plankton Ecosystem Models

Creating new scientific models of plankton is critical to understanding the scale of global climate change, a new scientific study has argued. The study suggests that current models used to simulate the influence of plankton on ocean ecosystems are based on out-of-date concepts.

The landmark study led by Plymouth Marine Laboratory’s Professor Kevin Flynn and including the University of Exeter recognizes the crucial role plankton plays in powering the planet by feeding marine life. Simulating their impact through up-to-date modeling is essential to predict the future of our planet.

Professor Flynn highlighted the significance of plankton, stating that they are mainly microscopic organisms that support the base of the food chain in the ocean and inland waters. The researchers argue that plankton models need updating to reflect contemporary knowledge about plankton physiology, diversity, and ecosystem functioning.

Using simulation tools built on outdated concepts to understand complex and rapidly changing ecosystems poses a real problem for science, policy, and society. It is crucial that models accurately describe the ecophysiology of these organisms, according to Professor Flynn.

The study warns of serious consequences, from underestimating biodiversity shifts to missing key drivers of marine productivity and carbon cycling. Using oversimplified models risks producing misleading results and providing a false sense of confidence in projecting into the future.

According to the source: Oceanographic Magazine.