DIAMOND- Sea Ice Leads Dynamics in the Arctic and their impact on primary production

Global warming is changing the Arctic, especially the sea ice, which affects the marine ecosystems that depend on it. Sea ice algae and phytoplankton (primary producers that capture CO2 and transform it to organic carbon) are important microorganisms in the Arctic food web, initiating a spring bloom each year that fuels the entire ecosystem and participates in carbon cycling. But as sea ice changes, these algae face new challenges, such as changes in the availability of light due to different sea ice cover and different nutrient supply with changes in ocean’s energy systems. Sea ice leads—narrow bands of open water between ice floes—are particularly affected by these changes. However, studying these small, short-lived areas is challenging, and we lack direct measurements of oceanographic conditions in leads. The DIAMOND project aims to fill this gap by combining in situ traditional measurements and new technologies, such as unmanned surface and remotely operated vehicles, to sample and study open water in leads and nearby ice areas. The project will also use satellites and modelling to better understand the changing Arctic ecosystem. Ultimately, DIAMOND will help estimate how much leads contribute to the Arctic’s primary production and ecosystem.

RCN early career grant 352217