The findings, which utilize data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), reveal how marine species have adapted to changing ocean temperatures and ice cover, with implications for biodiversity and ecosystem management in Arctic waters.
The study analyzed occurrence records from 1850 to 2020, identifying a poleward movement of invertebrate marine species, with the most pronounced shifts occurring after 1980. This movement is largely attributed to increased Atlantic Water inflow and reduced ice cover, influencing both benthic and pelagic marine species.
Several invertebrate taxa, particularly those previously concentrated in warmer southern zones, have moved northward, and some species have emerged as potential indicators for monitoring ecosystem changes, crucial for understanding the broader ecological impacts of climate shifts.
The study underscores the importance of long-term data in understanding and predicting changes in marine biodiversity. These insights are vital for developing adaptive management strategies and conservation measures, ensuring the sustainability of marine resources in the face of ongoing climate change.
Andreas Altenburger, leader of the UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic Marine Biodiversity says "This study highlights the dynamic nature of marine ecosystems and the resilience of species to environmental changes. By documenting these shifts, we can better prepare for the future, ensuring that conservation and management strategies are informed by robust scientific data."
- Nathalie Calvet, lead author of the study adds "The Barents Sea is a barometer for climate change. These findings not only document significant ecological shifts but also help us predict how marine life might continue to respond to global warming and ocean acidification."
Frontiers | Shifting invertebrate distributions in the Barents Sea since pre-1900 (frontiersin.org)
For further information, please contact:
Andreas Altenburger
Andreas.altenburger@uit.no