{"dp_type": "Project", "free_text": "MARINE ECOSYSTEMS"}
[{"awards": "2448649 Brooks, Cassandra", "bounds_geometry": null, "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Marine protected areas (MPAs) are protected areas of seas, oceans, and estuaries. They need coordinated research and monitoring for informed management to fulfill their conservation potential. Coordination is challenging, however, often due to knowledge gaps caused by inadequate access to data and resources, compounded by insufficient communication between scientists and managers. This Research Coordinating Network (RCN) uses the world\u2019s largest MPA in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, as a model system to create an international interdisciplinary network supporting policy-relevant research and monitoring that could be implemented in other remote, large-scale international MPAs. The first 10-year review of the Ross Sea MPA in 2027 will present a critical opportunity to coordinate across science, policy, and other partner communities to ensure the 2027 review (and subsequent reviews) are well grounded in robust scientific data, analyses, and streamlined inputs into policy. Many Antarctic research, policy, and conservation groups exist, some are even already focused on the Ross Sea, but there is not yet a formalized framework for coordination. Hence, the need for an RCN which can formalize connections among policy, research, and other communities focused specifically on research and monitoring of the Ross Sea region MPA. The RCN also provides an example of how to bring together diverse interdisciplinary participants towards an effective, integrated science-policy collaboration. To fulfill their conservation potential and provide safeguards for biodiversity, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) need coordinated research and monitoring for informed management through effective evaluation of ecosystem dynamics. The Ross Sea MPA in Antarctica is the world\u2019s largest MPA and the only one on the high seas. The Research Coordination Network (RCN) will connect three key components: (i) policy engagement, (ii) community partner engagement, and (iii) integrated science. The science component comprises three themes: data science and cyberinfrastructure; biophysical modeling; and observations that include monitoring and process studies. Guided by clear research questions across the three components, the RCN will lead to new knowledge about the barriers to science-policy engagement and strategies to overcome them; strategies for effectively engaging diverse community partners; and science needed to better understand the Ross Sea ecosystem structure and function, including strategies for international coordination. The three science themes inform understanding of the ecosystem, and thus, the potential efficacy of the Ross Sea region MPA. Data science and cyberinfrastructure provide essential structures for coordinated research. Biophysical modeling is critical for evaluating ecosystem metrics and can be illustrative for understanding changes in ecosystem structure and function. Observations and process studies are needed for addressing knowledge gaps and informing cyberinfrastructure tools and biophysical modeling efforts. The science integration component will advance knowledge while also advancing transformative interdisciplinary collaboration across data science, modeling, and observations. The RCN will build new connections and collaborations among scientists, policymakers and community partners, internationally and across disciplines, while integrating science and policy in novel ways. The RCN will operate through regular engagement across the network communities, including meetings and targeted activities with specific products and outcomes. The RCN increases diversity, science diplomacy, knowledge exchange, and conservation and five early- to mid-career researchers have leading roles. The contributions from this RCN will facilitate significant advances in the ability to understand high latitude marine ecosystems and how these systems respond to competing stressors, including climate change and fishing. Further, lessons learned through the RCN could offer guidance on how other large-scale international MPAs are monitored and assessed. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": null, "geometry": null, "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "BENTHIC; Southern Ocean; Ross Sea; AQUATIC SCIENCES; COMMUNITY DYNAMICS; ECOSYSTEM FUNCTIONS; Antarctica", "locations": "Ross Sea; Southern Ocean; Antarctica", "north": null, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Brooks, Cassandra", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": null, "title": "RCN: Building a Coordinated Network for Research and Monitoring in Large-Scale International Marine Protected Areas: The Ross Sea Region as a Model System", "uid": "p0010503", "west": null}, {"awards": "2322117 Buckley, Bradley", "bounds_geometry": null, "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part 1: This project focuses on a group of ecologically important species of fishes which inhabit the frigid waters of Antarctica. They represent a key link in the polar food web as they are prey for penguins, seals and toothed whales. These fish have evolved in the constant, extreme cold for millions of years and therefore, are very sensitive to the increasing water temperatures associated with global warming. These studies will investigate the impacts of incremental heat exposure on the biology of these fishes by examining their ability to respond, or inability to respond, to elevated temperatures. The project will employ cutting-edge technology to examine responses at the cellular level that may help these environmentally sensitive fishes adapt to the challenges of global warming. The primary goal is to increase our collective understanding of how polar ecosystems are likely to be impacted in the coming decades. Part 2: The proposed research is designed to use an existing bank of frozen tissues from a species of cold-adapted Antarctic fish to investigate protein-level responses to heat stress. These samples were collected earlier in the PI\u0027s career during fieldwork at McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Four tissues (control as well as heat- stressed) will be analyzed via mass spectrometry to characterize their proteome, defined as the entire complement of proteins in a sample. This includes both identification and quantification of these proteins. The goal is to determine what mechanisms of response to elevated temperature are available to the extremely cold-adapted, stenothermic fishes of Antarctica. Follow-up analyses will use immunoblotting (Western blotting) with antibodies specific to a sub-set of proteins revealed to be heat-responsive in the proteomic analyses. As this is a Mid-Career Advancement Award, training and mentorship in proteomic analyses for the PI will be supported, with time spent at the partner institution, the University of California, Davis. Intellectual Merit While there has been an increase in the use of genomic technologies to probe gene expression profiles in Antarctic species, few studies exist looking at protein level changes during exposure to heat stress in these organisms. Therefore, the proposed studies would represent a large leap forward in our understanding of how these environmentally sensitive species can, or cannot, respond at the cellular level as the Earth continues to warm and water temperatures rise. As proteins do the \"work\" in the cell, it\u0027s vital to understand which proteins are present and in what quantity and how dynamic this \"proteome\" is during stress. The proposed studies would provide this information for thousands of proteins, using already existing samples. The findings would be entirely novel and would allow us a much better picture of how animals that evolved in the cold for millions of years are likely to respond to climate change. Broader Impacts The PI has established relationships with several regional K-12 institutions and will continue to provide outreach in the form of classroom visits and the creation of classroom curricula. The PI has an on-going collaboration with the Oregon Coast Aquarium (Newport, OR) to create novel teaching materials for grades 6-8. The Aquarium has partners in surrounding school districts and will help disseminate videos about marine biology and climate change. Modules concerning polar species will be created under this proposal. An interactive website will be created demonstrating the Antarctic food web. All of the proteomic analyses and libraries generated under this award will be made publicly available for use by any interested researcher. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": null, "geometry": null, "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "McMurdo Sound; Fish; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; WATER TEMPERATURE; Antarctic; FISH", "locations": "McMurdo Sound; Antarctic", "north": null, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Buckley, Bradley; Kueltz, Dietmar", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": null, "title": "MCA: Cellular Responses to Thermal Stress in Antarctic Fishes: Dynamic Re-structuring of the Proteome in Extreme Stenotherms", "uid": "p0010501", "west": null}, {"awards": "2029777 Matrai, Patricia", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Fri, 07 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "This award provides funding in support of participation by U.S. graduate students and early career researchers for the 2019 Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) and Gordon Research Conference (GRC) Polar Marine Science meetings to be held in Ventura, CA May 22-28, 2021. The 2021 GRC event is entitled \u201cIntegrating Ocean Physics and Biogeochemistry to Assess Polar Ecosystem Sensitivity to Rapid Change\u201d. Gordon conferences on this topic are held every two years and provide a key forum to discuss cutting-edge and cross-disciplinary marine research highlighted as an international priority topic. The conference plan is designed to provide powerful insights into the present and future states of polar marine ecosystems, including the local and regional aspects of ocean circulation, sea ice dynamics, biogeochemical fluxes, biodiversity, ecosystem health and human well-being. This event will bring together an interdisciplinary group of students and young researchers from many fields working in Polar regions. Exchanges of this type are essential for ensuring that U.S. scientists and engineers maintain international research leadership in in polar regions. Participants will have an opportunity to present their work in the form of oral presentations or posters while interacting with some of the most eminent researchers in the field. The GRS and GRC will address fundamental aspects, which are related to the grand environmental and sustainability challenges facing mankind. Specific emphasis will be given to defining the next generation challenges in polar region research. The unique format of the Gordon Research Conferences with invited talks, limited attendance, and ample time for interactions will provide early career scientists with ample opportunities for discussions and networking. Particular emphasis will be placed on encouraging student and post-doc participation from a broad range of institutions. The GRC-PPS will be widely advertised in the community and the participation and application for travel support by junior scientists will be strongly encouraged. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Il Ciocco, Italy; Arctic; AQUATIC SCIENCES; SEA ICE; Polar; Atmosphere; MARINE SEDIMENTS; Ecology; Sea Ice; Antarctic", "locations": "Il Ciocco, Italy; Arctic; Antarctic; Polar", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Matrai, Patricia; Babin, Marcel", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "2021 Polar Marine Science GRC and GRS", "uid": "p0010496", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "2042032 Huckstadt, Luis", "bounds_geometry": null, "dataset_titles": "Crabeater seal tracking data 2022-2023", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601861", "doi": "10.15784/601861", "keywords": "Antarctica; Cryosphere", "people": "Huckstadt, Luis", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Crabeater seal tracking data 2022-2023", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601861"}], "date_created": "Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part I: Non-technical description: The crabeater seal is the most important predator of Antarctic krill in the western Antarctic Peninsula oceanic waters after the disappearance of large whales due to human hunting 100 years ago. The crabeater seals are expected to consume large quantities of krill due to their high abundance (about 7 million individuals), large body size (about 700 pounds in body weight), high metabolism and a diet specializing in krill. This species depends on sea ice presence all year long, living, reproducing, and diving to feed from that environment, making this marine mammal species a good indicator, or sentinel, of how the Antarctic ecosystem responds to a changing climate. As sea ice has been decreasing in the northern Antarctic Peninsula, this project aims to understand if the species food availability has changed in the last decades in response to environmental changes. In particular, the proposed work will concentrate on known populations of crabeater seals in northern (i.e., warmer, sub-polar) and southern (i.e., colder, polar) Antarctic Peninsula, 450 miles apart, making measurements on the abundance, physiology, metabolic needs and movement of the crabeater populations in both locations. The data will be combined to build models that will quantify the existing differences between northern and southern populations, as well as predict their future change, and compare present-day measurements with those collected by the British Antarctic Survey in the mid-1900s. The project is a collaboration between an international and interdisciplinary team from the United States and United Kingdom, benefitting NSF goals to facilitate collaborative geoscience research projects involving these two countries as well as aligning directly with U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) to better understand the forces shaping the global environment, both human and natural, and their impacts on society. To further increase polar literacy and education, Principal Investigators will train at least 2 graduate students and several undergraduates across two US institutions, as well as one UK-based post-doctoral researcher. Part II: Technical description: Crabeater seals (Lobodon carcinophaga) are considered an excellent sentinel species through which to examine the effects of a changing climate on the extended Antarctic krill-dependent predator community and the structure of the entire ecosystem of the western Antarctic Peninsula. Over the last forty years, there have been significant changes in the temporal and spatial patterns of primary productivity, and shifts in the population dynamics of Antarctic krill, the dominant mid-trophic level species. The impact of such changes on year-round resident species of crabeater seals (the most important predator of Antarctic krill) is more difficult to understand as they are not associated with breeding colonies where their population fluctuations could be more readily observed. The proposed research is conceived under the premise that environmental change has accentuated the differences between the northern and southern western Antarctic Peninsula crabeater seal populations due to differential reductions in sea-ice and its possible effect on prey availability. To address this question, this research will combine measurements on animal movement, stable isotope analyses, whole-animal physiology, and novel survey technologies (small Unmanned Aircraft Systems, satellite imagery) to build models. The project is a collaboration between an international and interdisciplinary team from the United States and United Kingdom. These studies will be essential to detect past, and project future, changes in the ecology of this species in response to changes in sea ice when comparing present-day measurements with those collected by the British Antarctic Survey in the mid-1900s. To further increase polar literacy and education, Principal Investigators will train at least 2 graduate students and several undergraduates across two US institutions, as well as one UK-based post-doctoral researcher. Students involved with this project will gain invaluable research experience in the lab and will have a unique opportunity to participate in Antarctic fieldwork. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": null, "geometry": null, "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "ANIMAL ECOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Antarctica", "locations": "Antarctica", "north": null, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Huckstadt, Luis", "platforms": null, "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": null, "title": "NSFGEO-NERC Collaborative Research: Effects of a Changing Climate on the Habitat Utilization, Foraging Ecology and Distribution of Crabeater Seals", "uid": "p0010490", "west": null}, {"awards": "2332062 Kim, Heather", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-80 -59,-76.8 -59,-73.6 -59,-70.4 -59,-67.2 -59,-64 -59,-60.8 -59,-57.599999999999994 -59,-54.4 -59,-51.2 -59,-48 -59,-48 -60.6,-48 -62.2,-48 -63.8,-48 -65.4,-48 -67,-48 -68.6,-48 -70.2,-48 -71.8,-48 -73.4,-48 -75,-51.2 -75,-54.4 -75,-57.6 -75,-60.8 -75,-64 -75,-67.2 -75,-70.4 -75,-73.6 -75,-76.8 -75,-80 -75,-80 -73.4,-80 -71.8,-80 -70.2,-80 -68.6,-80 -67,-80 -65.4,-80 -63.8,-80 -62.2,-80 -60.6,-80 -59))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) is experiencing significant environmental changes, including warming temperatures, reduced sea ice, and glacier retreat. These changes could impact marine ecosystems and biological and chemical processes, particularly the biological pump, which is the process by which carbon is transported from the ocean surface to the deep sea, playing a crucial role in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. This project aims to understand how climate change affects the biological pump in the WAP region. Using a combination of advanced modeling techniques and data from long-term research programs, the project will investigate the processes governing the biological pump and its climate feedback. The findings will provide insights into the future dynamics of the WAP region and contribute to our understanding of climate change impacts on polar marine ecosystems. This research is important as it will enhance knowledge of how polar regions respond to climate change, which is vital for predicting global climate patterns and informing conservation efforts. Furthermore, the project supports the development of early-career researchers and promotes diversity in science through collaborations with educational programs and outreach to underrepresented communities. This project focuses on the WAP, a region undergoing rapid environmental changes. The goal is to investigate and quantify the factors controlling the biological pump and its feedback to climate change and variability. A novel hybrid modeling framework will be developed, integrating observational data from the Palmer Long-Term Ecological Research program and the Rothera Oceanographic and Biological Time-Series into a sophisticated one-dimensional mechanistic biogeochemical model. This framework will utilize Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning techniques for data assimilation and parameter optimization. By incorporating complementary datasets and optimizing model parameters, the project aims to reduce uncertainties in modeling biological pump processes. The study will also use climate scenarios from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 to assess the impacts of future climate conditions on the biological pump. Additionally, the project will examine the role of vertical mixing of dissolved organic matter in total export production, providing a comprehensive understanding of the WAP carbon cycle. The outcomes will improve temporal resolution and data assimilation, advancing the mechanistic understanding of the interplay between ocean dynamics and biogeochemical processes in the changing polar environment. The project will also leverage unique datasets and make the model framework and source codes publicly available, facilitating collaboration and benefiting the broader scientific community. Outreach efforts include engaging with educational programs and promoting diversity in Polar Science through collaborations with institutions serving underrepresented groups. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": -48.0, "geometry": "POINT(-64 -67)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "West Antarctic; BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES; PELAGIC; ECOSYSTEM FUNCTIONS", "locations": "West Antarctic", "north": -59.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Kim, Heather", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -75.0, "title": "Projecting the Biological Carbon Pump and Climate Feedback in the Rapidly Changing West Antarctic Peninsula: A Hybrid Modeling Study", "uid": "p0010474", "west": -80.0}, {"awards": "2233187 Stammerjohn, Sharon", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -70,-177 -70,-174 -70,-171 -70,-168 -70,-165 -70,-162 -70,-159 -70,-156 -70,-153 -70,-150 -70,-150 -71,-150 -72,-150 -73,-150 -74,-150 -75,-150 -76,-150 -77,-150 -78,-150 -79,-150 -80,-153 -80,-156 -80,-159 -80,-162 -80,-165 -80,-168 -80,-171 -80,-174 -80,-177 -80,180 -80,178 -80,176 -80,174 -80,172 -80,170 -80,168 -80,166 -80,164 -80,162 -80,160 -80,160 -79,160 -78,160 -77,160 -76,160 -75,160 -74,160 -73,160 -72,160 -71,160 -70,162 -70,164 -70,166 -70,168 -70,170 -70,172 -70,174 -70,176 -70,178 -70,-180 -70))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The Ross Sea Region Marine Protected Area (RSRMPA), one of the world\u2019s largest MPAs, encompasses one of the healthiest marine ecosystems remaining on this planet; however, it is exposed to increasing stress from ongoing climate change and fishing pressure. Numerous gaps in our understanding of the highly coupled nature of the Ross Sea marine ecosystem need to be addressed to support conservation efforts in the Ross Sea region, including informing the efficacy and management of the RSRMPA into the coming decades. The overarching goal of this research is to formulate an innovative and sustainable world-class research program aimed at better understanding, conserving, and managing the RSRMPA through the coordination of multi-faceted system-level approaches. There will be a coordinated effort to facilitate international collaboration; create education, outreach, and Diverse Equitable and Inclusive (DEI) opportunities; and increase conservation awareness. Coordinating Ross Sea marine ecosystem research will contribute to enhancing system-level global research, sustainable data networks, DEI, and climate equity. This program will also provide opportunity to develop similar frameworks for other large-scale, globally important systems. The trans-disciplinary aspiration can also serve to guide the NSF in sustaining or initiating new funding opportunities while addressing several of the 10 NSF BIG IDEAS and engaging multiple NSF Directorates. The project will help maintain NSF\u2019s mission of scientific leadership by networking the Antarctic community by providing science-based conservation plans to help mitigate environmental changes in this pristine region of the Southern Ocean. The researchers will convene a workshop to strategize the implementation of an internationally networked, world class program that is based on inter- and trans-disciplinary approaches (including bridging science, cyberinfrastructure, policy, management, and conservation), while also providing opportunities for STEM education, early career development, and core DEI principles. To effectively facilitate the prioritization of research related to the regional and global interconnectedness of the Ross Sea marine ecosystem, the workshop will involve leading experts in Ross Sea marine research and other researchers, stakeholders, and policy experts involved in the greater oceanographic, climate and ecosystem/food web modeling communities. The workshop will determine a long-term decadal plan comprising the following phases: (1) initial data synthesis and ecosystem/food web model development; (2) field observations and modeling, networked through an internationally coordinated Ross Sea Observing System; and (3) data synthesis and modeling, including a \u201csunset\u201d plan to support ongoing RSRMPA management and preservation of the Ross Sea marine ecosystem. Outcomes will include a workshop report detailing the long-term research plan, a peer-reviewed article, educational and outreach materials, and a list of proposed research topics for implementing a world class research program and Principal Investigators who will help coordinate the multiple efforts aimed at addressing major gaps in our knowledge of the Ross Sea system. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 160.0, "geometry": "POINT(-175 -75)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "ECOSYSTEM FUNCTIONS; PELAGIC; COASTAL; United States Of America", "locations": "United States Of America", "north": -70.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Integrated System Science", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Stammerjohn, Sharon; Brooks, Cassandra", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -80.0, "title": "Planning: Formulating and Sustaining a System-Level Understanding of a Large Marine Ecosystem in the Ross Sea Region Marine Protected Area to Better Conserve and Guide Policy", "uid": "p0010452", "west": -150.0}, {"awards": "2232891 Postlethwait, John", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -37,-144 -37,-108 -37,-72 -37,-36 -37,0 -37,36 -37,72 -37,108 -37,144 -37,180 -37,180 -42.3,180 -47.6,180 -52.9,180 -58.2,180 -63.5,180 -68.8,180 -74.1,180 -79.4,180 -84.69999999999999,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -84.7,-180 -79.4,-180 -74.1,-180 -68.8,-180 -63.5,-180 -58.2,-180 -52.9,-180 -47.6,-180 -42.300000000000004,-180 -37))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Antarctic animals face tremendous threats as Antarctic ice sheets melt and temperatures rise. About 34 million years ago, when Antarctica began to cool, most species of fish became locally extinct. A group called the notothenioids, however, survived due to the evolution of antifreeze. The group eventually split into over 120 species. Why did this group of Antarctic fishes evolve into so many species? One possible reason why a single population splits into two species relates to sex genes and sex chromosomes. Diverging species often have either different sex determining genes (genes that specify whether an individual\u2019s gonads become ovaries or testes) or have different sex chromosomes (chromosomes that differ between males and females within a species, like the human X and Y chromosomes). We know the sex chromosomes of only a few notothenioid species and know the genetic basis for sex determination in none of them. The aims of this research are to: 1) identify sex chromosomes in species representing every major group of Antarctic notothenioid fish; 2) discover possible sex determining genes in every major group of Antarctic notothenioid fish; and 3) find sex chromosomes and possible sex determining genes in two groups of temperate, warmer water, notothenioid fish. These warmer water fish include groups that never experienced the frigid Southern Ocean and groups that had ancestors inhabiting Antarctic oceans that later adjusted to warmer waters. This project will help explain the mechanisms that led to the division of a group of species threatened by climate change. This information is critical to conserve declining populations of Antarctic notothenioids, which are major food sources for other Antarctic species such as bird and seals. The project will offer a diverse group of undergraduates the opportunity to develop a permanent exhibit at the Eugene Science Center Museum. The exhibit will describe the Antarctic environment and explain its rapid climate change. It will also introduce the continent\u2019s bizarre fishes that live below the freezing point of water. The project will collaborate with the university\u2019s Science and Comics Initiative and students in the English Department\u2019s Comics Studies Minor to prepare short graphic novels explaining Antarctic biogeography, icefish specialties, and the science of this project as it develops. As Antarctica cooled, most species disappeared from the continent\u2019s waters, but cryonotothenioid fish radiated into a species flock. What facilitated this radiation? Coyne\u2019s \u201ctwo rules of speciation\u201d offer explanations for why species diverge: 1) the dysgenic sex in an interspecies hybrid is the one with two different sex chromosomes (i.e., in humans, it would be XY males and not XX females); and 2) \u201csex chromosomes play an outsized role in speciation\u201d. These ideas propel the project\u2019s main hypothesis: new sex chromosomes and new sex determination genes associate with cryonotothenioid speciation events. The main objective of the research is to identify notothenioid sex chromosomes and candidate sex-determination genes in many notothenioid species. The project\u2019s first aim is to identify Antarctic fish sex chromosomes, asking the question: Did new sex chromosomes accompany speciation events? Knowledge gaps include: which species have cryptic sex chromosomes; which have newly evolved sex chromosomes; and which are chromosomally XX/XY or ZZ/ZW. Methods involve population genomics (RAD-seq and Pool-seq) for more than 20 Antarctic cryonotothenioids. The prediction is frequent turnover of sex chromosomes. The project\u2019s second aim is to Identify candidate Antarctic cryonotothenioid sex-determination genes, asking the question: Did new sex-determination genes accompany Antarctic cryonotothenioid speciation events? A knowledge gap is the identity of sex determination genes in any notothenioid. Preliminary data show that three sex-linked loci are in or adjacent to three different candidate sex determination genes: 1) a duplicate of bmpr1ba in blackfin icefish; 2) a tandem duplicate of gsdf in South Georgia icefish; and 3) a transposed duplicate of gsdf in striped notothen. Methods involve annotating the genomic neighborhoods of cryonotothenioid sex linked loci for anomalies in candidate sex genes, sequencing sex chromosomes, and testing sex gene variants by CRISPR mutagenesis in zebrafish. The prediction is frequent turnover of sex determination genes. The project\u2019s third aim is to identify sex chromosomes and sex-determination genes in temperate notothenioids. Basally diverging temperate notothenioids (\u2018basals\u2019) lack identifiable sex chromosomes, consistent with temperature-cued sex determination, and one \u2018basal\u2019 species is a hermaphrodite. The constantly cold Southern Ocean rules out temperature, a common sex determination cue in many temperate fish, favoring genetic sex determination. Some cryonotothenioids re-invaded temperate waters (\u2018returnees\u2019). Knowledge gaps include whether basals and returnees have strong sex determination genes. Methods employ pool-seq. The prediction is that genetic sex determination is weak in basals and that returnees have the same, but weaker, sex-linked loci as their Antarctic sister clade. A permanent exhibit will be established at the Eugene Science Center Museum tentatively entitled: The Antarctic: its fishes and climate change. Thousands of visitors, especially school children will be exposed, to the science of Antarctic ecosystems and the impacts of climate change. The research team will collaborate with the university\u2019s Science and Comics Initiative to produce short graphic novels explaining Antarctic biogeography, icefish specialties, and this project. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Speciation; Southern Ocean; Dragonfish; Antarctica; Plunderfish; Fish; Notothenioid; FISH; Eleginopsioidea; Icefish; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Cryonotothenioid; Sub-Antarctic", "locations": "Antarctica; Southern Ocean; Sub-Antarctic", "north": -37.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Postlethwait, John; Desvignes, Thomas", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "ANT LIA: The Role of Sex Determination in the Radiation of Antarctic Notothenioid Fish", "uid": "p0010431", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "2142491 Young, Jodi", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Wed, 26 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Sea ice in Antarctic coastal waters shape ecosystems, both in the surface waters and at the bottom of the ocean, environments that depend on algae living in sea ice for their productivity. With high variability in sea ice formation and melt between years and as a response to climate change, it is of importance to obtain better understanding of the interaction of sea ice with algae, as well as provide better data for global climate models. This project will accomplish those goals by measuring phytoplankton growth and cellular properties in sea ice with experiments performed using an ice tank. Laboratory experiments will be based on previous observations in the Antarctic Peninsula coastal waters, providing realistic conditions to emulate. The scientific importance of the proposed work aligns with the National Science Foundation goals to understand the biological and chemical properties of sea ice bio-geo-chemistry and its feedbacks with seasonal sea ice dynamics and climate. The finding from this project will be of interest to a broad scientific community, including oceanographers, biologists, chemists, and ecosystem and ocean modelers. To address the scarcity of data on sea ice microbes that limits our ability to predict future Antarctic climate with accuracy, the principal investigator will develop an Antarctic Science Minor in order to train future scientists with an environmental perspective and prepare the future US workforce with a strong scientific background on Earth and Biological Sciences. There is a paucity of data to understand the processes underlying observed patters in sea ice quality and their interaction with the sea-ice microbial community. This project will provide a mechanistic understanding of primary production and physiology of sympagic algae over the seasonal cycle of formation and melt of Antarctic sea ice. Although sea ice is central to the Antarctic coastal ecosystems, little is known of how they affect, and are in turn affected, by sea-ice algae. This project concentrates on first-year sea ice, forming and melting each year, creating unique and very dynamic habitats. The study will be structured by 4 main objectives: 1) how different algal species adapt to the seasonal changes in sea ice conditions, 2) how different methods to measure primary production (carbon dioxide drawdown, oxygen production and variable fluorescence) relate in sea ice and differ from sea water measurements, 3) how sympagic algae influence the physical structure of sea ice, 4) how sympagic algae contribute to organic matter cycling during ice melt. Due to expected changes in sea ice due to climate change, this study is uniquely positioned to provide needed data on short-term and seasonal processes. Results from this study will be useful to refine models of algal production in Antarctic and Arctic ecosystems, data not available to date as sea ice and its biogeochemistry are often poorly represented in earth system models. This project will also provide education for graduate and undergraduate students as well as material to develop class curriculum for middle-school students. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "MARINE ECOSYSTEMS", "locations": null, "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Young, Jodi", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "CAREER: Experimentally Testing the Role of Sympagic Algae in Sea-ice Environments using a Laboratory Scale Ice-tank.", "uid": "p0010425", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "1643575 Kanatous, Shane; 1644256 Costa, Daniel; 1644004 Trumble, Stephen", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-66.534369 -52.962091,-65.3857434 -52.962091,-64.2371178 -52.962091,-63.0884922 -52.962091,-61.9398666 -52.962091,-60.791241 -52.962091,-59.6426154 -52.962091,-58.4939898 -52.962091,-57.3453642 -52.962091,-56.1967386 -52.962091,-55.048113 -52.962091,-55.048113 -54.530129,-55.048113 -56.098167000000004,-55.048113 -57.666205000000005,-55.048113 -59.234243,-55.048113 -60.802281,-55.048113 -62.370319,-55.048113 -63.938357,-55.048113 -65.506395,-55.048113 -67.074433,-55.048113 -68.642471,-56.1967386 -68.642471,-57.3453642 -68.642471,-58.4939898 -68.642471,-59.6426154 -68.642471,-60.791241 -68.642471,-61.9398666 -68.642471,-63.0884922 -68.642471,-64.2371178 -68.642471,-65.3857434 -68.642471,-66.534369 -68.642471,-66.534369 -67.074433,-66.534369 -65.506395,-66.534369 -63.938356999999996,-66.534369 -62.370319,-66.534369 -60.802281,-66.534369 -59.234243,-66.534369 -57.666205,-66.534369 -56.098167000000004,-66.534369 -54.530129,-66.534369 -52.962091))", "dataset_titles": "Data from: Whiskers provide time-series of toxic and essential trace elements, Se:Hg molar ratios, and stable isotope values of an apex Antarctic predator, the leopard seal; Leopard Seal Diving behavior data; Leopard Seal movement data", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601689", "doi": "10.15784/601689", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Body Mass; Diving Behavior; Leopard Seal; Movement Data; Seals", "people": "Costa, Daniel", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Leopard Seal movement data", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601689"}, {"dataset_uid": "200361", "doi": "https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.ksn02v75b", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "Dryad", "science_program": null, "title": "Data from: Whiskers provide time-series of toxic and essential trace elements, Se:Hg molar ratios, and stable isotope values of an apex Antarctic predator, the leopard seal", "url": "https://datadryad.org/stash/dataset/doi:10.5061%2Fdryad.ksn02v75b"}, {"dataset_uid": "601690", "doi": "10.15784/601690", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Body Mass; Diving Behavior; Leopard Seal; Seals", "people": "Costa, Daniel", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Leopard Seal Diving behavior data", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601690"}], "date_created": "Fri, 12 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "This research project is a multidisciplinary effort that brings together a diverse team of scientists from multiple institutions together to understand the foraging behavior and physiology of leopard seals and their role in the Southern Ocean food web. The project will examine the physiology and behavior of leopard seals to in an effort to determine their ability to respond to potential changes in their habitat and foraging areas. Using satellite tracking devices the team will examine the movement and diving behavior of leopard seals and couple this information with measurements of their physiological capacity. The project will determine whether leopard seals- who feed on diverse range of prey- are built differently than their deep diving relatives the Weddell and elephant seal who feed on fish and squid. The team will also determine whether leopard seals are operating at or near their physiological capability to determine how much, if any, ?reserve capacity? they might have to forage and live in changing environments. A better understanding of their home ranges, movement patterns, and general behavior will also be informative to help in managing human-leopard seal interactions. The highly visual nature of the data and analysis for this project lends itself to public and educational display and outreach, particularly as they relate to the changing Antarctic habitats. The project will use the research results to educate the public on the unique physiological and ecological adaptations to extreme environments seen in diving marine mammals, including adaptations to exercise under low oxygen conditions and energy utilization, which affect and dictate the lifestyle of these exceptional organisms. The results of the project will also contribute to the broader understanding that may enhance the aims of managing marine living resources. The leopard seal is an apex predator in the Antarctic ecosystem. This project seeks to better understand the ability of the leopard seal to cope with a changing environment. The project will first examine the foraging behavior and habitat utilization of leopard seals using satellite telemetry. Specifically, satellite telemetry tags will be used to obtain dive profiles and movement data for individuals across multiple years. Diet and trophic level positions across multiple temporal scales will then be determined from physiological samples (e.g., blood, vibrissae, blubber fatty acids, stable isotopes, fecal matter). Oceanographic data will be integrated with these measures to develop habitat models that will be used to assess habitat type, habitat utilization, habitat preference, and home range areas for individual animals. Diet composition for individual seals will be evaluated to determine whether specific animals are generalists or specialists. Second, the team will investigate the physiological adaptations that allow leopard seals to be apex predators and determine to what extent leopard seals are working at or near their physiological limit. Diving behavior and physiology of leopard seals will be evaluated (for instance the aerobic dive limit for individual animals and skeletal muscle adaptations will be determined for diving under hypoxic conditions). Data from time-depth recorders will be used to determine foraging strategies for individual seals, and these diving characteristics will be related to physiological variables (e.g., blood volume, muscle oxygen stores) to better understand the link between foraging behavior and physiology. The team will compare myoglobin storage in swimming muscles associated with both forelimb and hind limb propulsion and the use of anaerobic versus aerobic metabolic systems while foraging.", "east": -55.048113, "geometry": "POINT(-60.791241 -60.802281)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Antarctic Peninsula; Diving Behavior; MAMMALS; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Movement Patterns; Leopard Seal", "locations": "Antarctic Peninsula", "north": -52.962091, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Costa, Daniel; Trumble, Stephen J; Kanatous, Shane", "platforms": null, "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "Dryad; USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -68.642471, "title": "Collaborative Research: Foraging Ecology and Physiology of the Leopard Seal", "uid": "p0010419", "west": -66.534369}, {"awards": "2135184 Arrigo, Kevin; 2135186 Baumberger, Tamara; 2135185 Resing, Joseph", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((155 -61,156.5 -61,158 -61,159.5 -61,161 -61,162.5 -61,164 -61,165.5 -61,167 -61,168.5 -61,170 -61,170 -61.2,170 -61.4,170 -61.6,170 -61.8,170 -62,170 -62.2,170 -62.4,170 -62.6,170 -62.8,170 -63,168.5 -63,167 -63,165.5 -63,164 -63,162.5 -63,161 -63,159.5 -63,158 -63,156.5 -63,155 -63,155 -62.8,155 -62.6,155 -62.4,155 -62.2,155 -62,155 -61.8,155 -61.6,155 -61.4,155 -61.2,155 -61))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Fri, 30 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Phytoplankton blooms throughout the world\u2019s oceans support critical marine ecosystems and help remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Traditionally, it has been assumed that phytoplankton blooms in the Southern Ocean are stimulated by iron from either nearby land or sea-ice. However, recent work demonstrates that hydrothermal vents may be an additional iron source for phytoplankton blooms. This enhancement of phytoplankton productivity by different iron sources supports rich marine ecosystems and leads to the sequestration of carbon in the deep ocean. Our proposed work will uncover the importance of hydrothermal activity in stimulating a large phytoplankton bloom along the southern boundary of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current just north of the Ross Sea. It will also lead towards a better understanding of the overall impact of hydrothermal activity on the carbon cycle in the Southern Ocean, which appears to trigger local hotspots of biological activity which are a potential sink for atmospheric CO2. This project will encourage the participation of underrepresented groups in ocean sciences, as well as providing educational opportunities for high school and undergraduate students, through three different programs. Stanford University\u2019s Summer Undergraduate Research in Geoscience and Engineering (SURGE) program provides undergraduates from different US universities and diverse cultural backgrounds the opportunity to spend a summer doing a research project at Stanford. The Stanford Earth Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SESUR) is for Stanford undergraduates who want to learn more about environmental science by performing original research. Finally, Stanford\u2019s School of Earth, Energy, and Environmental Sciences High School Internship Program enables young scientists to serve as mentors, prepares high school students for college, and serves to strengthen the partnership between Stanford and local schools. Students present their results at the Fall AGU meeting as part of the AGU Bright STaRS program. This project will form the basis of at least two PhD dissertations. The Stanford student will participate in Stanford\u2019s Woods Institute Rising Environmental Leaders Program (RELP), a year-round program that helps graduate students hone their leadership and communication skills to maximize the impact of their research. The graduate student will also participate in Stanford\u2019s Grant Writing Academy where they will receive training in developing and articulating research strategies to tackle important scientific questions. This interdisciplinary program combines satellite and ship-based measurements of a large poorly understood phytoplankton bloom (the AAR bloom) in the northwestern Ross Sea sector of the Southern Ocean with a detailed modeling study of the physical processes linking deep dissolved iron (DFe) reservoirs to the surface phytoplankton bloom. Prior to the cruise, we will implement a numerical model (CROCO) for our study region so that we can better understand the circulation, plumes, turbulence, fronts, and eddy field around the AAR bloom and how they transport and mix hydrothermally produced DFe vertically. Post cruise, observations of the vertical distribution of 3He (combined with DMn and DFe), will be used as initial conditions for a passive tracer in the model, and tracer dispersal will be assessed to better quantify the role of the various turbulent processes in upwelling DFe-rich waters to the upper ocean. The satellite-based component of the program will characterize the broader sampling region before, during, and after our cruise. During the cruise, our automated software system at Stanford University will download and process images of sea ice concentration, Chl-a concentration, sea surface temperature (SST), and sea surface height (SSH) and send them electronically to the ship. Operationally, our goal is to use all available satellite data and preliminary model results to target shipboard sampling both geographically and temporally to optimize sampling of the AAR bloom. We will use available BGC-Argo float data to help characterize the AAR bloom. In collaboration with SOCCOM, we will deploy additional BGC-Argo floats (if available) during our transit through the study area to allow us to better characterize the bloom. The centerpiece of our program will be a 40-day process study cruise in austral summer. The cruise will consist of an initial \u201cradiator\u201d pattern of hydrographic surveys/sections along the AAR followed by CTDs to selected submarine volcanoes. When/if eddies are identified, they will be sampled either during or after the initial surveys. The radiator pattern, or parts thereof, will be repeated 2-3 times. Hydrographic survey stations will include vertical profiles of temperature, salinity, oxygen, oxidation-reduction potential, light scatter, and PAR (400-700 nm). Samples will be collected for trace metals, ligands, 3He, and total suspended matter. Where intense hydrothermal activity is identified, samples for pH and total CO2 will also be collected to characterize the hydrothermal system. Water samples will be collected for characterization of macronutrients, and phytoplankton physiology, abundance, species composition, and size. During transits, we will continuously measure atmospheric conditions, current speed and direction, and surface SST, salinity, pCO2, and fluorescence from the ship\u2019s systems to provide detailed maps of these parameters. The ship will be used as a platform for conducting phytoplankton DFe bioassay experiments at key stations throughout the study region both inside and outside the bloom. We will also perform detailed comparisons of algal taxonomic composition, physiology, and size structure inside and outside the bloom to determine the potential importance of each community on local biogeochemistry. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 170.0, "geometry": "POINT(162.5 -62)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES; Antarctica; TRACE ELEMENTS; Hydrothermal Vent; Phytoplankton; Primary Production", "locations": "Antarctica", "north": -61.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Arrigo, Kevin; Thomas, Leif N; Baumberger, Tamara; Resing, Joseph", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -63.0, "title": "Collaborative Research: Understanding the Massive Phytoplankton Blooms over the Australian-Antarctic Ridge", "uid": "p0010381", "west": 155.0}, {"awards": "2146068 Kienle, Sarah", "bounds_geometry": null, "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Mon, 12 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The leopard seal (Hydrurga leptonyx) is an enigmatic apex predator in the rapidly changing Southern Ocean. As top predators, leopard seals play a disproportionately large role in ecosystem functioning and act as sentinel species that can track habitat changes. How leopard seals respond to a warming environment depends on their adaptive capacity, that is a species\u2019 ability to cope with environmental change. However, leopard seals are one of the least studied apex predators on Earth, hindering our ability to predict how the species is responding to polar environmental changes. Investigating the adaptability of Antarctic biota in a changing system aligns with NSF\u2019s Strategic Vision for Investments in Antarctic and Southern Ocean Research. This research, which is tightly integrated with educational and outreach activities, will increase diversity in STEM and Antarctic science by recruiting students from historically underrepresented groups in STEM and providing training, mentoring, and educational opportunities at an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution and a Historically Black Colleges and Universities campus. This project will improve STEM education and science literacy via museum collaborations, creation of informational videos and original artwork depicting the research. The proposal supports data and sample reuse in polar research and long-term reuse of scientific data, thereby maximizing NSF\u2019s investment in previous field research and reducing operational costs. The researchers will investigate leopard seals adaptive capacity to the warming Southern Ocean by quantifying their ability to move (dispersal ability), adapt (genetic diversity), and change (plasticity). Aim 1 of the research will determine leopard seals\u2019 dispersal ability by assessing their distribution and movement patterns. Aim 2 will quantify genetic diversity by analyzing genetic variability and population structure and Aim 3 will examine phenotypic plasticity by evaluating changes in their ecological niche and physiological responses. The international, multidisciplinary team will analyze existing data (e.g., photographs, census data, life history data, tissue samples, body morphometrics) collected from leopard seals across the Southern Ocean over the last decade. Additionally, land- and ship-based field efforts will generate comparable data from unsampled regions in the Southern Ocean. The research project will analyze these historical and contemporary datasets to evaluate the adaptive capacity of leopard seals against the rapidly warming Southern Ocean. This research is significant because changes in the distribution, genetic diversity, and ecophysiology of leopard seals can dramatically restructure polar and subpolar communities. Further, the research will expand understanding of leopard seals\u2019 ecological role, likely characterizing the species as flexible polar and subpolar predators throughout the Southern Hemisphere. The findings of this research will be relevant for use in ecosystem-based management decisions\u2014including the design of Marine Protected Areas\u2014 across three continents. This study will highlight intrinsic traits that determine species\u2019 adaptive capacity, as well as showcase the dynamic links between polar and subpolar ecosystems. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": null, "geometry": null, "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "FIELD SURVEYS; SPECIES/POPULATION INTERACTIONS; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; MAMMALS; Southern Ocean", "locations": "Southern Ocean", "north": null, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Kienle, Sarah; Trumble, Stephen J; Bonin, Carolina", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD SURVEYS", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": null, "title": "Move, Adapt, or Change: Examining the Adaptive Capacity of a Southern Ocean Apex Predator, the Leopard Seal", "uid": "p0010375", "west": null}, {"awards": "2132641 Bik, Holly", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -62,180 -64,180 -66,180 -68,180 -70,180 -72,180 -74,180 -76,180 -78,180 -80,144 -80,108 -80,72 -80,36 -80,0 -80,-36 -80,-72 -80,-108 -80,-144 -80,-180 -80,-180 -78,-180 -76,-180 -74,-180 -72,-180 -70,-180 -68,-180 -66,-180 -64,-180 -62,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Tue, 30 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Non-technical Abstract: The long isolation and unique biodiversity of the Southern Ocean represents an important case study region for understanding the evolution and ecology of populations. This study uses modern -omics approaches to evaluate the biodiversity, evolution, and ecology of Antarctic marine nematodes and their host-associated microbiomes from a variety of habitats collected at different depths. The results are producing an important baseline dataset of Antarctic meiofaunal diversity. All genomic resources generated in this project will be publicly accessible as open-source datasets with the potential for long-term scientific reuse. This project supports diverse researchers from underrepresented backgrounds and produces a suite of Antarctic-focused digital public outreach products. Technical Abstract: Nematode worms are abundant and ubiquitous in marine sediment habitats worldwide, performing key functions such as nutrient cycling and sediment stability. However, study of this phylum suffers from a perpetual and severe taxonomic deficit, with less than 5,000 formally described marine species. Fauna from the Southern Ocean are especially poorly studied due to limited sampling and the general inaccessibility of the Antarctic benthos. This study is providing the first large-scale molecular-based investigation from marine nematodes in the Eastern Antarctic continental shelf, providing an important comparative dataset for the existing body of historical (morphological) taxonomic studies. This project uses a combination of classical taxonomy (microscopy) and modern -omics tools to achieve three overarching aims: 1) determine if molecular data supports high biodiversity and endemism of benthic meiofauna in Antarctic benthic ecosystems; 2) determine the proportion of marine nematode species that have a deep-sea versus shallow-water evolutionary origin on the Antarctic shelf, and assess patterns of cryptic speciation in the Southern Ocean; and 3) determine the most important drivers of the host-associated microbiome in Antarctic marine nematodes. This project is designed to rapidly advance knowledge of the evolutionary origins of Antarctic meiofauna, provide insight on population-level patterns within key indicator genera, and elucidate the potential ecological and environmental factors which may influence microbiome patterns. Broader Impacts activities include an intensive cruise- and land-based outreach program focusing on social media engagement and digital outreach products, raising awareness of Antarctic marine ecosystems and understudied microbial-animal relationships. The diverse research team includes female scientists, first-generation college students, and Latinx trainees. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "East Antarctica; BENTHIC", "locations": "East Antarctica", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Bik, Holly", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -80.0, "title": "ANT LIA: Do Molecular Data Support High Endemism and Divergent Evolution of Antarctic Marine Nematodes and their Host-associated Microbiomes?", "uid": "p0010372", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "1744885 Moline, Mark", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-64.643 -64.703149,-64.5388975 -64.703149,-64.43479500000001 -64.703149,-64.3306925 -64.703149,-64.22659 -64.703149,-64.1224875 -64.703149,-64.018385 -64.703149,-63.9142825 -64.703149,-63.81018 -64.703149,-63.706077500000006 -64.703149,-63.601975 -64.703149,-63.601975 -64.7258003,-63.601975 -64.7484516,-63.601975 -64.77110289999999,-63.601975 -64.7937542,-63.601975 -64.8164055,-63.601975 -64.8390568,-63.601975 -64.86170809999999,-63.601975 -64.8843594,-63.601975 -64.9070107,-63.601975 -64.929662,-63.706077500000006 -64.929662,-63.81018 -64.929662,-63.9142825 -64.929662,-64.018385 -64.929662,-64.1224875 -64.929662,-64.22659 -64.929662,-64.3306925 -64.929662,-64.43479500000001 -64.929662,-64.5388975 -64.929662,-64.643 -64.929662,-64.643 -64.9070107,-64.643 -64.8843594,-64.643 -64.86170809999999,-64.643 -64.8390568,-64.643 -64.8164055,-64.643 -64.7937542,-64.643 -64.77110289999999,-64.643 -64.7484516,-64.643 -64.7258003,-64.643 -64.703149))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Mon, 18 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "This research project will use specially designed autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to investigate interactions between Adelie and Gentoo penguins (the predators) and their primary food source, Antarctic krill (prey). While it has long been known that penguins feed on krill, details about how they search for food and target individual prey items is less well understood. Krill aggregate in large swarms, and the size or the depth of these swarms may influence the feeding behavior of penguins. Similarly, penguin feeding behaviors may differ based on characteristics of the environment, krill swarms, and the presence of other prey and predator species. This project will use specialized smart AUVs to simultaneously collect high-resolution observations of penguins, their prey, and environmental conditions. Data will shed light on strategies used by penguins prove foraging success during the critical summer chick-rearing period. This will improve predictions of how penguin populations may respond to changing environmental conditions in the rapidly warming Western Antarctic Peninsula region. Greater understanding of how individual behaviors shape food web structure can also inform conservation and management efforts in other marine ecosystems. This project has a robust public education and outreach plan linked with the Birch and Monterey Bay Aquariums. Previous studies have shown that sub-mesoscale variability (1-10 km) in Antarctic krill densities and structure impact the foraging behavior of air-breathing predators. However, there is little understanding of how krill aggregation characteristics are linked to abundance on fine spatial scales, how these patterns are influenced by the habitat, or how prey characteristics influences the foraging behavior of predators. These data gaps remain because it is extremely challenging to collect detailed data on predators and prey simultaneously at the scale of an individual krill patch and single foraging event. Building on previously successful efforts, this project will integrate echosounders into autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), so that oceanographic variables and multi-frequency acoustic scattering from both prey and penguins can be collected simultaneously. This will allow for quantification of the environment at the scale of individual foraging events made by penguins during the critical 50+ day chick-rearing period. Work will be centered near Palmer Station, where long-term studies have provided significant insight into predator and prey population trends. The new data to be collected by this project will test hypotheses about how penguin prey selection and foraging behaviors are influenced by physical and biological features of their ocean habitat at extremely fine scale. By addressing the dynamic relationship between individual penguins, their prey, and habitat at the scale of individual foraging events, this study will begin to reveal the important processes regulating resource availability and identify what makes this region a profitable foraging habitat and breeding location. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": -63.601975, "geometry": "POINT(-64.1224875 -64.8164055)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "COASTAL; COMMUNITY DYNAMICS; ECOSYSTEM FUNCTIONS; SPECIES/POPULATION INTERACTIONS; Palmer Station; MICROALGAE; PENGUINS; ANIMALS/INVERTEBRATES", "locations": "Palmer Station", "north": -64.703149, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Integrated System Science", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Moline, Mark; Benoit-Bird, Kelly; Cimino, Megan", "platforms": null, "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -64.929662, "title": "Collaborative Research: Linking Predator Behavior and Resource Distributions: Penguin-directed Exploration of an Ecological Hotspot", "uid": "p0010347", "west": -64.643}, {"awards": "0003956 Burns, Jennifer; 9981683 Costa, Daniel", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-70 -65,-69.5 -65,-69 -65,-68.5 -65,-68 -65,-67.5 -65,-67 -65,-66.5 -65,-66 -65,-65.5 -65,-65 -65,-65 -65.5,-65 -66,-65 -66.5,-65 -67,-65 -67.5,-65 -68,-65 -68.5,-65 -69,-65 -69.5,-65 -70,-65.5 -70,-66 -70,-66.5 -70,-67 -70,-67.5 -70,-68 -70,-68.5 -70,-69 -70,-69.5 -70,-70 -70,-70 -69.5,-70 -69,-70 -68.5,-70 -68,-70 -67.5,-70 -67,-70 -66.5,-70 -66,-70 -65.5,-70 -65))", "dataset_titles": "Crabeater seal oxygen stores", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601583", "doi": "10.15784/601583", "keywords": "Antarctica; Crabeater Seal; GLOBEC; Hemoglobin; LMG0104; LMG0106; LMG0204; LMG0205; Marguerite Bay; Myoglobin; Oxygen Stores; Seals", "people": "Burns, Jennifer", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Crabeater seal oxygen stores", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601583"}], "date_created": "Wed, 29 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "This collaborative study between the University of California, Santa Cruz, Duke University, the University of South Florida, the University of Alaska-Anchorage, and the University of California, San Diego will examine the identification of biological and physical features associated with the abundance and distribution of individual Antarctic predators; the identification and characterization of biological \u0027hot spots\u0027 within the Western Antarctic Peninsula; and the development of temporally and spatially explicit models of krill consumption within the WAP by vertebrate predators. It is one of several data synthesis and modeling components that use the data obtained in the course of the field work of the Southern Ocean Global Ocean Ecosystems Dynamics (SO GLOBEC) experiment.\u003cbr/\u003eSO-Globec is a multidisciplinary effort focused on understanding the physical and biological factors that influence growth, reproduction, recruitment and survival of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba). The program uses a multi-trophic level approach that includes the predators and competitors of Antarctic krill, represented by other zooplankton, fish, penguins, seals, and cetaceans. It is currently in a synthesis and modeling phase. This collaborative project is concerned with understanding how predators utilize \u0027hot spots\u0027, i.e. locally intense areas of biological productivity, and how \u0027hot spots\u0027 might temporally and spatially structure krill predation rates, and will be integrated with other synthesis and modeling studies that deal with the hydrography primary production, and krill dynamics.", "east": -65.0, "geometry": "POINT(-67.5 -67.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Marguerite Bay; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS", "locations": "Marguerite Bay", "north": -65.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Burns, Jennifer; Costa, Daniel", "platforms": null, "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -70.0, "title": "Foraging Ecology of Crabeater Seals (Lobodon Carcinophagus)", "uid": "p0010345", "west": -70.0}, {"awards": "1543367 Shubin, Neil", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((158.3 -77.5,158.54000000000002 -77.5,158.78 -77.5,159.02 -77.5,159.26 -77.5,159.5 -77.5,159.74 -77.5,159.98 -77.5,160.22 -77.5,160.45999999999998 -77.5,160.7 -77.5,160.7 -77.605,160.7 -77.71,160.7 -77.815,160.7 -77.92,160.7 -78.025,160.7 -78.13,160.7 -78.235,160.7 -78.34,160.7 -78.445,160.7 -78.55,160.45999999999998 -78.55,160.22 -78.55,159.98 -78.55,159.74 -78.55,159.5 -78.55,159.26 -78.55,159.02 -78.55,158.78 -78.55,158.54000000000002 -78.55,158.3 -78.55,158.3 -78.445,158.3 -78.34,158.3 -78.235,158.3 -78.13,158.3 -78.025,158.3 -77.92,158.3 -77.815,158.3 -77.71,158.3 -77.605,158.3 -77.5))", "dataset_titles": "Vertebrate Fossils from the Aztec Siltstone (Mid-Late Devonian); Vertebrate Fossils from the Aztec Siltstone (Mid-Late Devonian) 2 (2018-2019)", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601580", "doi": "10.15784/601580", "keywords": "Acanthodii; Antarctica; Chondrichthyes; Early Vertebrates; Osteolepiformes; Paleontology; Placodermi; Transantarctic Mountains; Vertebrate Evolution", "people": "Daeschler, Ted", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Vertebrate Fossils from the Aztec Siltstone (Mid-Late Devonian)", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601580"}, {"dataset_uid": "601584", "doi": "10.15784/601584", "keywords": "Acanthodii; Antarctica; Chondrichthyes; Early Vertebrates; Osteolepiformes; Paleontology; Placodermi; Transantarctic Mountains; Vertebrate Evolution", "people": "Daeschler, Ted", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Vertebrate Fossils from the Aztec Siltstone (Mid-Late Devonian) 2 (2018-2019)", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601584"}], "date_created": "Fri, 17 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "This research will provide new insights into the relationships and history of sharks, fish and limbed animals. Understanding these relationships forms the backbone for both basic and applied science because fish often serve as models of human traits and diseases. Some of the main lines of evidence for these relationships come from fossils in rocks over 380 million years old that were originally deposited as ancient rivers and streams. Because rocks of this type and age are abundantly exposed along a number of the dry valleys and mountains of Antarctica, the investigation of these areas holds exceptional promise for discoveries that can have a broad impact. The fieldwork will involve geological mapping and assessment of the rocks with detailed reconnaissance for the fossils that they may hold. Fossil discoveries form the backbone for public communication of the methods and results of scientific research-- these studies will be used as vehicles for training of students at multiple levels as well as communication of science to the broader non-science citizen base. The discovery, description, and analysis of Middle to Late Devonian (390-355 Million years ago) vertebrates and depositional environments provide important data on the emergence of novel anatomical structures, faunas, and habitats during a critical interval in the history of life and earth. Biological innovation during this time includes the early evolution of freshwater fish, the origins of major groups of vertebrates (e.g., sharks, lobe and ray-finned fish, tetrapods), and the expansion and elaboration of non-marine ecosystems. Accordingly, expanding our knowledge of vertebrate diversity during the Middle and Late Devonian will provide new evidence on the relationships of the major groups of vertebrates, the assembly of novelties that ultimately enabled tetrapods to invade land, the origin and early evolution of sharks and their relatives, and the assembly and expansion of non-marine ecosystems generally. The Aztec Siltstone of Antarctica Middle-Late Devonian; Givetian-Frasnian Stages) has exceptional potential to produce new paleontological evidence of these events and to illuminate the temporal, ecological, and geographic context in which they occurred. It is essentially fossiliferous throughout its known exposure range, something that is rare for Middle-Late Devonian non-marine rocks anywhere in the world. In addition, fine-grained meandering stream deposits are abundantly exposed in the Aztec Siltstone and are recognized as an important locus for the discovery of well-preserved Devonian fish, including stem tetrapods and their relatives. Given the exceedingly fossiliferous nature of the Aztec Siltstone, the large number of taxa known only from partial material, and the amount of promising exposure yet to be worked, a dedicated reconnaissance, collection, and research effort is designed to recover important new fossil material and embed it in a stratigraphic and sedimentological context. The first major objective of this study is the recovery, preparation, and description of Middle-Late Devonian fossil taxa. Ensuing investigation of the phylogenetic affinities, taphonomic occurrence, and stratigraphic position of fossil assemblages will allow both local and global comparisons of biotic diversity. These analyses will inform: 1) higher level phylogenetic hypotheses of jawed vertebrates, 2) biostratigraphic and biogeographic analysis of the distribution of the Middle-Late Devonian fish, and 3) paleobiological investigation of the elaboration of terrestrial and freshwater habitats. The broader impacts are derived from the utility of paleontology and Antarctic expeditionary science as educational tools with powerful narratives. Specific goals include affiliations with local urban secondary schools (using established relationships for broadening participation) and collegiate and graduate training. Wider dissemination of knowledge to the general public is a direct product of ongoing interactions with national and international media (print, television, internet).", "east": 160.7, "geometry": "POINT(159.5 -78.025)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Amd/Us; AMD; FIELD INVESTIGATION; Transantarctic Mountains; USA/NSF; MACROFOSSILS; Fossils; USAP-DC", "locations": "Transantarctic Mountains", "north": -77.5, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Earth Sciences", "paleo_time": "PHANEROZOIC \u003e PALEOZOIC \u003e DEVONIAN", "persons": "Shubin, Neil; Daeschler, Edward B", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.55, "title": "Middle-Late Devonian Vertebrates of Antarctica", "uid": "p0010340", "west": 158.3}, {"awards": "1947558 Leckie, Robert; 1947657 Dodd, Justin; 1947646 Shevenell, Amelia", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -72.5,-177.6 -72.5,-175.2 -72.5,-172.8 -72.5,-170.4 -72.5,-168 -72.5,-165.6 -72.5,-163.2 -72.5,-160.8 -72.5,-158.4 -72.5,-156 -72.5,-156 -73.15,-156 -73.8,-156 -74.45,-156 -75.1,-156 -75.75,-156 -76.4,-156 -77.05,-156 -77.7,-156 -78.35,-156 -79,-158.4 -79,-160.8 -79,-163.2 -79,-165.6 -79,-168 -79,-170.4 -79,-172.8 -79,-175.2 -79,-177.6 -79,180 -79,178.4 -79,176.8 -79,175.2 -79,173.6 -79,172 -79,170.4 -79,168.8 -79,167.2 -79,165.6 -79,164 -79,164 -78.35,164 -77.7,164 -77.05,164 -76.4,164 -75.75,164 -75.1,164 -74.45,164 -73.8,164 -73.15,164 -72.5,165.6 -72.5,167.2 -72.5,168.8 -72.5,170.4 -72.5,172 -72.5,173.6 -72.5,175.2 -72.5,176.8 -72.5,178.4 -72.5,-180 -72.5))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Wed, 08 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Nontechnical abstract Presently, Antarctica\u2019s glaciers are melting as Earth\u2019s atmosphere and the Southern Ocean warm. Not much is known about how Antarctica\u2019s ice sheets might respond to ongoing and future warming, but such knowledge is important because Antarctica\u2019s ice sheets might raise global sea levels significantly with continued melting. Over time, mud accumulates on the sea floor around Antarctica that is composed of the skeletons and debris of microscopic marine organisms and sediment from the adjacent continent. As this mud is deposited, it creates a record of past environmental and ecological changes, including ocean depth, glacier advance and retreat, ocean temperature, ocean circulation, marine ecosystems, ocean chemistry, and continental weathering. Scientists interested in understanding how Antarctica\u2019s glaciers and ice sheets might respond to ongoing warming can use a variety of physical, biological, and chemical analyses of these mud archives to determine how long ago the mud was deposited and how the ice sheets, oceans, and marine ecosystems responded during intervals in the past when Earth\u2019s climate was warmer. In this project, researchers from the University of South Florida, University of Massachusetts, and Northern Illinois University will reconstruct the depth, ocean temperature, weathering and nutrient input, and marine ecosystems in the central Ross Sea from ~17 to 13 million years ago, when the warm Miocene Climate Optimum transitioned to a cooler interval with more extensive ice sheets. Record will be generated from new sediments recovered during the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 374 and legacy sequences recovered in the 1970\u2019s during the Deep Sea Drilling Program. Results will be integrated into ice sheet and climate models to improve the accuracy of predictions. The research provides experience for three graduate students and seven undergraduate students via a multi-institutional REU program focused on increasing diversity in Antarctic Earth Sciences. Technical Abstract Deep-sea sediments reveal that the Miocene Climatic Optimum (MCO) was the warmest climate interval of the last ~20 Ma, was associated with global carbon cycle changes and ice growth, and immediately preceded the Middle Miocene Climate Transition (MMCT; ~14 Ma), one of three major intervals of Antarctic ice expansion and global cooling. Ice-proximal studies are required to assess: where and when ice grew, ice sheet extent, continental shelf geometry, high-latitude heat and moisture supply, oceanic and/or atmospheric temperature influence on ice dynamics, regional sea ice extent, meltwater input, and regions of bottom water formation. Existing studies indicate that ice expanded beyond the Transantarctic Mountains and onto the prograding Ross Sea continental shelf multiple times between ~17 and 13.5 Ma. However, these records are either too ice-proximal/terrestrial to adequately assess ocean-ice interactions or under-studied. To address this data gap, this work will: 1) generate micropaleontologic and geochemical records of oceanic and atmospheric temperature, water depth, ocean circulation, and paleoproductivity from existing Ross Sea marine sedimentary sequences, and 2) use these proxy records to test the hypothesis that dynamic glacial expansion in the Ross Sea sector during the MCO was driven by heat and moisture transport to the high latitudes during an interval of enhanced climate sensitivity. Downcore geochemical and micropaleontologic studies will focus on an expanded (120 m/my) early to middle Miocene (~17-16 Ma) diatom-bearing/rich mudstone/diatomite unit from IODP Site U1521, drilled on the Ross Sea continental shelf. A hiatus (~16-14.6 Ma) suggests ice expansion during the MCO, followed by diamictite to mudstone unit indicative of slight retreat (14.6 -14 Ma) immediately preceding the MMCT. Data from Site U1521 will be integrated with foraminiferal geochemical and micropaleontologic data from DSDP Leg 28 (1972/73) and RISP J-9 (1978-79) to develop a MCO to late Miocene regional view of ocean-ice sheet interactions using legacy core material previously processed for foraminifera. This integrated record will: 1) document the timing and extent of glacial advances and retreats across the prograding Ross Sea shelf during the middle and late Miocene, 2) provide orbital-scale paleotemperature reconstructions (TEX86, Mg/Ca, \u03b418O, MBT/CBT) to establish atmosphere-ocean-ice interactions during an extreme high-latitude warm interval, and 3) provide orbital-scale nutrient/paleoproductivity, ocean circulation, and paleoenvironmental data required to assess climate feedbacks associated with Miocene Antarctic ice sheet and global climate system development. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": -156.0, "geometry": "POINT(-176 -75.75)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Amd/Us; LABORATORY; AMD; PALEOCLIMATE RECONSTRUCTIONS; Ross Sea; USAP-DC; USA/NSF", "locations": "Ross Sea", "north": -72.5, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Earth Sciences; Antarctic Earth Sciences; Antarctic Earth Sciences", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Shevenell, Amelia", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e PHYSICAL MODELS \u003e LABORATORY", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -79.0, "title": "Collaborative Proposal: Miocene Climate Extremes: A Ross Sea Perspective from IODP Expedition 374 and DSDP Leg 28 Marine Sediments", "uid": "p0010335", "west": 164.0}, {"awards": "2055455 Duhaime, Melissa", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Fri, 03 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part 1: Non-technical description: It is well known that the Southern Ocean plays an important role in global carbon cycling and also receives a disproportionately large influence of climate change. The role of marine viruses on ocean productivity is largely understudied, especially in this global region. This team proposes to use combination of genomics, flow cytometry, and network modeling to test the hypothesis that viral biogeography, infection networks, and viral impacts on microbial metabolism can explain variations in net community production (NCP) and carbon cycling in the Southern Ocean. The project includes the training of a postdoctoral scholar, graduate students and undergraduate students. It also includes the development of a new Polar Sci ReachOut program in partnership with the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History especially targeted to middle-school students and teachers and the general public. The team will also produce a Science for Tomorrow (SFT) program for use in middle schools in metro-Detroit communities and lead a summer Research Experience for Teachers (RET) fellows. Part 2: Technical description: The study will leverage hundreds of existing samples collected for microbes and viruses from the Antarctic Circumpolar Expedition (ACE). These samples provide the first contiguous survey of viral diversity and microbial communities around Antarctica. Viral networks are being studied in the context of biogeochemical data to model community networks and predict net community production (NCP), which will provide a way to evaluate the role of viruses in Southern Ocean carbon cycling. Using cutting edge molecular and flow cytometry approaches, this project addresses the following questions: 1) How/why are Southern Ocean viral populations distributed across environmental gradients? 2a) Do viruses interfere with \"keystone\" metabolic pathways and biogeochemical processes of microbial communities in the Southern Ocean? 2b) Does nutrient availability or other environmental variables drive changes in virus-microbe infection networks in the Southern Ocean? Results will be used to develop and evaluate generative models of NCP predictions that incorporate the importance of viral traits and virus-host interactions. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Southern Ocean; Amd/Us; AMD; FIELD INVESTIGATION; USA/NSF; AQUATIC SCIENCES; BACTERIA/ARCHAEA; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; VIRUSES; USAP-DC", "locations": "Southern Ocean", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Duhaime, Melissa; Zaman, Luis", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "ANT LIA - Viral Ecogenomics of the Southern Ocean: Unifying Omics and Ecological Networks to Advance our Understanding of Antarctic Microbial Ecosystem Function", "uid": "p0010333", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "2141555 Brooks, Cassandra", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -71.5,-177.1 -71.5,-174.2 -71.5,-171.3 -71.5,-168.4 -71.5,-165.5 -71.5,-162.6 -71.5,-159.7 -71.5,-156.8 -71.5,-153.9 -71.5,-151 -71.5,-151 -72.25,-151 -73,-151 -73.75,-151 -74.5,-151 -75.25,-151 -76,-151 -76.75,-151 -77.5,-151 -78.25,-151 -79,-153.9 -79,-156.8 -79,-159.7 -79,-162.6 -79,-165.5 -79,-168.4 -79,-171.3 -79,-174.2 -79,-177.1 -79,180 -79,178.1 -79,176.2 -79,174.3 -79,172.4 -79,170.5 -79,168.6 -79,166.7 -79,164.8 -79,162.9 -79,161 -79,161 -78.25,161 -77.5,161 -76.75,161 -76,161 -75.25,161 -74.5,161 -73.75,161 -73,161 -72.25,161 -71.5,162.9 -71.5,164.8 -71.5,166.7 -71.5,168.6 -71.5,170.5 -71.5,172.4 -71.5,174.3 -71.5,176.2 -71.5,178.1 -71.5,-180 -71.5))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Fri, 27 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The Ross Sea, Antarctica, is one of the last large intact marine ecosystems left in the world, yet is facing increasing pressure from commercial fisheries and environmental change. It is the most productive stretch of the Southern Ocean, supporting an array of marine life, including Antarctic toothfish \u2013 the region\u2019s top fish predator. While a commercial fishery for toothfish continues to grow in the Ross Sea, fundamental knowledge gaps remain regarding toothfish ecology and the impacts of toothfish fishing on the broader Ross Sea ecosystem. Recognizing the global value of the Ross Sea, a large (\u003e2 million km2) marine protected area was adopted by the multi-national Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources in 2016. This research will fill a critical gap in the knowledge of Antarctic toothfish and deepen understanding of biological-physical interactions for fish ecology, while contributing to knowledge of impacts of fishing and environmental change on the Ross Sea system. This work will further provide innovative tools for studying connectivity among geographically distinct fish populations and for synthesizing and assessing the efficacy of a large-scale marine protected area. In developing an integrated research and education program in engaged scholarship, this project seeks to train the next generation of scholars to engage across the science-policy-public interface, engage with Southern Ocean stakeholders throughout the research process, and to deepen the public\u2019s appreciation of the Antarctic. A major research priority among Ross Sea scientists is to better understand the life history of the Antarctic toothfish and test the efficacy of the Ross Sea Marine Protected Area (MPA) in protecting against the impacts of overfishing and climate change. Like growth rings of a tree, fish ear bones, called otoliths, develop annual layers of calcium carbonate that incorporates elements from their environment. Otoliths offer information on the fish\u2019s growth and the surrounding ocean conditions. Hypothesizing that much of the Antarctic toothfish life cycle is structured by ocean circulation, this research employs a multi-disciplinary approach combining age and growth work with otolith chemistry testing, while also utilizing GIS mapping. The project will measure life history parameters as well as trace elements and stable isotopes in otoliths in three distinct sets collected over the last four decades in the Ross Sea. The information will be used to quantify the transport pathways Antarctic toothfish use across their life history, and across time, in the Ross Sea. The project will assess if toothfish populations from the Ross Sea are connected more widely across the Antarctic. By comparing life history and otolith chemistry data across time, the researchers will assess change in life history parameters and spatial dynamics and seek to infer if these changes are driven by fishing or climate change. Spatially mapping of these data will allow an assessment of the efficacy of the Ross Sea MPA in protecting toothfish and where further protections might be needed. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": -151.0, "geometry": "POINT(-175 -75.25)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Amd/Us; USA/NSF; FIELD INVESTIGATION; USAP-DC; AMD; FISHERIES; Ross Sea", "locations": "Ross Sea", "north": -71.5, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Brooks, Cassandra", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -79.0, "title": "CAREER: Using Otolith Chemistry to Reveal the Life History of Antarctic Toothfish in the Ross Sea, Antarctica: Testing Fisheries and Climate Change Impacts on a Top Fish Predator", "uid": "p0010329", "west": 161.0}, {"awards": "2053726 Hofmann, Gretchen", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((163 -77,163.4 -77,163.8 -77,164.2 -77,164.6 -77,165 -77,165.4 -77,165.8 -77,166.2 -77,166.6 -77,167 -77,167 -77.1,167 -77.2,167 -77.3,167 -77.4,167 -77.5,167 -77.6,167 -77.7,167 -77.8,167 -77.9,167 -78,166.6 -78,166.2 -78,165.8 -78,165.4 -78,165 -78,164.6 -78,164.2 -78,163.8 -78,163.4 -78,163 -78,163 -77.9,163 -77.8,163 -77.7,163 -77.6,163 -77.5,163 -77.4,163 -77.3,163 -77.2,163 -77.1,163 -77))", "dataset_titles": "Analyses combining ATAC-seq, RRBS, and RNA-seq data for purple urchins", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "200288", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "GitHub", "science_program": null, "title": "Analyses combining ATAC-seq, RRBS, and RNA-seq data for purple urchins", "url": "https://github.com/snbogan/Sp_RRBS_ATAC"}], "date_created": "Thu, 14 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part 1: Non-technical description: With support from the Office of Polar Programs, this project will evaluate how an important part of the food web in the coastal ocean of Antarctica will respond to climate change. The focal study organism in the plankton is a shelled mollusk, the Antarctic pteropod, Limacina helicina antarctica, an Southern Ocean organism that this known to respond to climate driven changes in ocean acidification and ocean warming. Ocean acidification, the lowering of ocean pH via the absorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide in the surface of the ocean, is a change in the ocean that is expected to cross deleterious thresholds of pH within decades. This study will improve understanding of how pteropods will respond, which will provide insight into predicting the resilience of the Antarctic marine ecosystem during future changes, one of the planet\u2019s last marine wildernesses. The project will use tools of molecular biology to examine specifically how gene expression is modulated in the pteropods, and further, how the changes and regulation of genes act to resist the stress of low pH and high temperature. In addition, this project supports the training of Ph.D. graduate students and advances the goal of inclusive excellence in STEM and in marine sciences, in particular. The students involved in this project are from groups traditionally under-represented in marine science including first-generation college students. Overall, the project contributes to the development of the U.S. work force and contributes to diversity and inclusive excellence in the geosciences. Part 2: Technical description: The overarching goal of this project is to investigate the molecular response of the Antarctic thecosome pteropod, Limacina helicina antarctica to ocean acidification (OA) and ocean warming. The project will investigate changes in the epigenome of juvenile L. h. antarctica, by assessing the dynamics of DNA methylation in response to three scenarios of environmental conditions that were simulated in laboratory mesocosm CO2 experiments: (1) present-day pCO2 conditions for summer and winter, (2) future ocean acidification expected within 10-15 years, and (3) a multiple stressor experiment to investigate synergistic interaction of OA and high temperature stress. Recent lab-based mesocosm experiment research showed significant changes in the dynamics of global DNA methylation in the pteropod genome, along with variation in gene expression in response to abiotic changes. Thus, it is clear that juvenile L. h. antarctica are capable of mounting a substantial epigenetic response to ocean acidification. However, it is not known how DNA methylation, as an epigenetic process, is modulating changes in the transcriptome. In order to address this gap in the epigenetic knowledge regarding pteropods, the project will use next-generation sequencing approaches (e.g., RNA sequencing and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing) to integrate changes in methylation status with changes in gene expression in juvenile pteropods. Overall, this investigation is an important step in exploring environmental transcriptomics and phenotypic plasticity of an ecologically important member of Southern Ocean macrozoooplankton in response to anthropogenic climate change. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 167.0, "geometry": "POINT(165 -77.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "USAP-DC; McMurdo Sound; Amd/Us; FIELD INVESTIGATION; USA/NSF; AMD; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; ANIMALS/INVERTEBRATES", "locations": "McMurdo Sound", "north": -77.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Hofmann, Gretchen", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repo": "GitHub", "repositories": "GitHub", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "The Role of the Epigenetic Mechanism, DNA Methylation, in the Tolerance and Resistance of Antarctic Pteropods to Ocean Acidification and Warming", "uid": "p0010313", "west": 163.0}, {"awards": "1916665 Mahon, Andrew; 1916661 Halanych, Kenneth; 2225144 Halanych, Kenneth", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-72 -61,-69.8 -61,-67.6 -61,-65.4 -61,-63.2 -61,-61 -61,-58.8 -61,-56.6 -61,-54.4 -61,-52.2 -61,-50 -61,-50 -61.8,-50 -62.6,-50 -63.4,-50 -64.2,-50 -65,-50 -65.8,-50 -66.6,-50 -67.4,-50 -68.2,-50 -69,-52.2 -69,-54.4 -69,-56.6 -69,-58.8 -69,-61 -69,-63.2 -69,-65.4 -69,-67.6 -69,-69.8 -69,-72 -69,-72 -68.2,-72 -67.4,-72 -66.6,-72 -65.8,-72 -65,-72 -64.2,-72 -63.4,-72 -62.6,-72 -61.8,-72 -61))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Wed, 22 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Antarctica is among the most rapidly warming places on the planet, and some reports suggest the Antarctic environment is approaching, or possibly beyond, the tipping point for ice shelf collapse. The loss of ice around Antarctica is dramatically changing habitat availability for marine fauna, particularly benthic marine invertebrate species. Building on past studies, this research will provide insights into how changing climate impacts species distribution and community structure. Geological data suggests that during periods when ice extent was much reduced relative to modern levels, marine seaways connected the Ross and Weddell Seas on either side of Antarctica. However, most theories about the origins of current marine invertebrate distribution patterns fail to consider this transantarctic connection. This research will use molecular genomic tools to probe the DNA of Antarctic marine invertebrates and explore alternative hypotheses about factors that may have shaped current patterns of animal biodiversity in the Southern Ocean. Research will inform predictions about how species distributions may change as Antarctic ice sheets continue to deteriorate and provide critical information on how organisms adjust their ranges in response to environmental change. This work includes several specific outreach activities including presentations in K-8 classrooms, several short-format videos on Antarctic genomics and field work, and two 3-day workshops on bioinformatics approaches. A minimum of 4 graduate students, a postdoc and several undergraduates will also be trained during this project. The overarching goal of this research is to understand environmental factors that have shaped patterns of present-day diversity in Antarctic benthic marine invertebrates. Evidence from sediment cores and modeling suggests ice shelf collapses have occurred multiple times in the last few million years. During these periods, transantarctic seaways connected the Ross and Weddell Seas. This research will assess whether the presence of transantarctic waterways helps explain observed similarities between the Ross and Weddell Seas benthic marine invertebrate fauna better than other current hypotheses (e.g., dispersal by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, or expansion from common glacial refugia). Seven Antarctic benthic invertebrate taxa will be targeted to test alternative hypothesis about the origins of population genetic structure in the Southern Ocean using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers that sample thousands of loci across the genome. Additionally, research will test the current paradigm that divergence between closely related, often cryptic, species is the result of population bottlenecks caused by glaciation. Specifically, SNP data will be mapped on to draft genomes of three of our target taxa to assess the degree of genetic divergence and look for signs of selection. Research findings may be applicable to other marine ecosystems around the planet. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": -50.0, "geometry": "POINT(-61 -65)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Marguerite Bay; USA/NSF; AMD; Weddell Sea; USAP-DC; FIELD SURVEYS; Amd/Us; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; ANIMALS/INVERTEBRATES", "locations": "Weddell Sea; Marguerite Bay", "north": -61.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Halanych, Kenneth; Mahon, Andrew", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD SURVEYS", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -69.0, "title": "Collaborative Research: Have transantarctic dispersal corridors impacted Antarctic marine biodiversity?", "uid": "p0010266", "west": -72.0}, {"awards": "2046437 Zitterbart, Daniel", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-60 -55,-53 -55,-46 -55,-39 -55,-32 -55,-25 -55,-18 -55,-11 -55,-4 -55,3 -55,10 -55,10 -57.5,10 -60,10 -62.5,10 -65,10 -67.5,10 -70,10 -72.5,10 -75,10 -77.5,10 -80,3 -80,-4 -80,-11 -80,-18 -80,-25 -80,-32 -80,-39 -80,-46 -80,-53 -80,-60 -80,-60 -77.5,-60 -75,-60 -72.5,-60 -70,-60 -67.5,-60 -65,-60 -62.5,-60 -60,-60 -57.5,-60 -55))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Mon, 16 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part I: Non-technical description: Understanding human-induced changes on biodiversity is one of the most important scientific challenges we face today. This is especially true for marine environments that are home to much of the world\u2019s biomass and biodiversity. A particularly effective approach to investigate the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems is to monitor top-predator populations such as seabirds or marine mammals. The food web in the Southern Ocean in relatively small and involves few species, therefore climate-induced variations at the prey species level directly affect the predator species level. For example, seabirds, like penguins, are ideal to detect and study these ecosystem changes. This study combines traditional methods to study emperor penguin population dynamics with the use of an autonomous vehicle to conduct the population dynamic measurements with less impact and higher accuracy. This project leverages an existing long-term emperor penguin observatory at the Atka Bay colony which hosts penguins living in the Weddell sea and the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean. The study will kickstart the collection of a multi-decadal data set in an area of the Southern Ocean that has been understudied. It will fill important gaps in ecological knowledge on the state of the Emperor penguin and its adaptive capabilities within a changing world. Finally, the project supports NSF goals of training new generations of scientists through collaborative training of undergraduate students and the creation of a new class on robotics for ecosystem study. Emperor penguins are an iconic species that few people will ever see in the wild. Through the technology developed in this proposal, the public can be immersed in real-time into the life of an emperor penguin colony. Public outreach will be achieved by showcasing real-time video and audio footage of emperor penguins from the field as social media science and engineering-themed educational materials. Part II: Technical description: Polar ecosystems currently experience significant impacts due to global changes. Measurable negative effects on polar wildlife have already occurred, such as population decreases of numerous seabird species, including the complete loss of colonies of one of the most emblematic species of the Antarctic, the emperor penguin. These existing impacts on polar species are alarming, especially because many polar species still remain poorly studied due to technical and logistical challenges imposed by the harsh environment and extreme remoteness. Developing technologies and tools for monitoring such wildlife populations is, therefore, a matter of urgency. This project aims to help close major knowledge gaps about the emperor penguin, in particular about their adaptive capability to a changing environment, by the development of next-generation tools to remotely study entire colonies. Specifically, the main goal of this project is to implement and test an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle equipped with Radio-frequency identification (RFID) antennas and wireless mesh communication data-loggers to: 1) identify RFID-tagged emperor penguins during breeding to studying population dynamics without human presence; and 2) receive Global Positioning System-Time Domain Reflectometry (GPS-TDR) datasets from Very High Frequency VHF-GPS-TDR data-loggers without human presence to study animal behavior and distribution at sea. The autonomous vehicles navigation through the colony will be aided by an existing remote penguin observatory (SPOT). Properly implemented, this technology can be used to study of the life history of individual penguins, and therefore gather data for behavioral and population dynamic studies. The new data will contribute to intelligent establishment of marine protected areas in Antarctica. The education objectives of this CAREER project are designed to increase the interest in a STEM education for the next generation of scientists by combining the charisma of the emperor penguin with robotics research. Within this project, a new class on ecosystem robotics will be developed and taught, Robotics boot-camps will allow undergraduate students to remotely participate in Antarctic field trips, and an annual curriculum will be developed that allows K-12 students to follow the life of the emperor penguin during the breeding cycle, powered by real-time data obtained using the unmanned ground vehicle as well as the existing emperor penguin observatory. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 10.0, "geometry": "POINT(-25 -67.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "AMD; Antarctica; Dronning Maud Land; FIELD SURVEYS; Amd/Us; Atka Bay; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; USAP-DC; USA/NSF", "locations": "Atka Bay; Antarctica; Dronning Maud Land", "north": -55.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Zitterbart, Daniel", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD SURVEYS", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -80.0, "title": "\r\nCAREER: Development of Unmanned Ground Vehicles for Assessing the Health of Secluded Ecosystems (ECHO)", "uid": "p0010245", "west": -60.0}, {"awards": "1943550 McDonald, Birgitte", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((168 -77,168.3 -77,168.6 -77,168.9 -77,169.2 -77,169.5 -77,169.8 -77,170.1 -77,170.4 -77,170.7 -77,171 -77,171 -77.1,171 -77.2,171 -77.3,171 -77.4,171 -77.5,171 -77.6,171 -77.7,171 -77.8,171 -77.9,171 -78,170.7 -78,170.4 -78,170.1 -78,169.8 -78,169.5 -78,169.2 -78,168.9 -78,168.6 -78,168.3 -78,168 -78,168 -77.9,168 -77.8,168 -77.7,168 -77.6,168 -77.5,168 -77.4,168 -77.3,168 -77.2,168 -77.1,168 -77))", "dataset_titles": "Late chick-rearing foraging ecology of emperor penguins from the Cape Crozier colony; Post-molt emperor penguin foraging ecology", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601688", "doi": "10.15784/601688", "keywords": "Animal Tracking; Antarctica; Biota; Emperor Penguin; GPS; Late Chick Rearing; Ross Sea", "people": "McDonald, Birgitte", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Late chick-rearing foraging ecology of emperor penguins from the Cape Crozier colony", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601688"}, {"dataset_uid": "601686", "doi": "10.15784/601686", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Emperor Penguin; NBP2302; Post-Molt; Ross Sea", "people": "McDonald, Birgitte", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Post-molt emperor penguin foraging ecology", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601686"}], "date_created": "Tue, 20 Jul 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part I: Non-technical Summary Understanding the mechanisms that animals use to find and acquire food is a fundamental question in ecology. The survival and success of marine predators depends on their ability to locate prey in a variable or changing environment. To do this the predators need to be able to adjust foraging behavior depending on the conditions they encounter. Emperor penguins are ice-dependent, top predators in Antarctica. However, they are vulnerable to environmental changes that alter food web or sea ice coverage, and environmental change may lead to changes in penguin foraging behavior, and ultimately survival and reproduction success. Despite their importance in the Southern Ocean ecosystem, relatively little is known about the specific mechanisms Emperor penguins use to find and acquire food. This study combines a suite of technological and analytical tools to gain essential knowledge on Ross Sea penguin foraging energetics, ecology, and habitat use during critical periods in their life history, especially during late chick-rearing periods. Energy management is particularly crucial during this time as parents need to feed both themselves and their rapidly growing offspring, while being constrained to regions near the colony. Penguin ecology and habitat preference will also be evaluated after the molt and through early reproduction. This study fills important ecological knowledge gaps on the energy balance, diet, and habitat use by penguins during these critical periods. Finally, the project furthers the NSF goals of training new generations of scientists through training of undergraduates, graduate students and a postdoctoral researcher. Public outreach activities will be aligned with another NSF funded project designed to provide science training in afterschool and camp programs that target underrepresented groups. Part II: Technical summary This project will identify behavioral and physiological variability in foraging Emperor penguins that can be directly linked to individual success in the marine environment using an ecological theoretical framework during two critical life history stages. First, this project will investigate the foraging energetics, ecology, and habitat use of Emperor penguins at Cape Crozier using fine-scale movement and video data loggers during the energetically demanding life history phase of late chick-rearing. Specifically, this study will 1) Estimate the relationship of foraging efficiency to foraging behavior and diet using an optimal foraging theory framework to identify what environmental or physiological constraints influence foraging behavior; 2) Investigate the inter- and intra-individual behavioral variability exhibited by emperor penguins, which is essential to predict how resilient these penguins are to environmental change; and 3) Integrate penguin foraging efficiency data with environmental data to identify important habitat. Next the researchers will study the ecology and habitat preference after the molt and through early reproduction using satellite-linked data loggers. The team will: 1) Investigate penguin inter- and intra-individual behavioral variability during the three-month post-molt and early winter foraging trips; and 2) Integrate penguin behavioral data with environmental data to identify which environmental features are indicative of habitat preference when penguins are not constrained to returning to the colony to feed a chick. These fine- and coarse-scale data will be combined with climate predictions to create predictive habitat models. The education objectives of this CAREER project are designed to inspire, engage, and train the next generation of scientists using the data and video generated while investigating Emperor penguins in the Antarctic ecosystem. This includes development of two university courses, training of undergraduate and graduate students, and a collaboration with the NSF funded \u201cPolar Literacy: A model for youth engagement and learning\u201d program to develop after school and camp curriculum that target undeserved and underrepresented groups. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 171.0, "geometry": "POINT(169.5 -77.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Amd/Us; PENGUINS; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; USA/NSF; Ross Sea; FIELD SURVEYS; USAP-DC; AMD", "locations": "Ross Sea", "north": -77.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "McDonald, Birgitte", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD SURVEYS", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "CAREER: Foraging Ecology and Physiology of Emperor Penguins in the Ross Sea", "uid": "p0010232", "west": 168.0}, {"awards": "1643877 Friedlaender, Ari", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-65 -63.5,-64.5 -63.5,-64 -63.5,-63.5 -63.5,-63 -63.5,-62.5 -63.5,-62 -63.5,-61.5 -63.5,-61 -63.5,-60.5 -63.5,-60 -63.5,-60 -63.73,-60 -63.96,-60 -64.19,-60 -64.42,-60 -64.65,-60 -64.88,-60 -65.11,-60 -65.34,-60 -65.57,-60 -65.8,-60.5 -65.8,-61 -65.8,-61.5 -65.8,-62 -65.8,-62.5 -65.8,-63 -65.8,-63.5 -65.8,-64 -65.8,-64.5 -65.8,-65 -65.8,-65 -65.57,-65 -65.34,-65 -65.11,-65 -64.88,-65 -64.65,-65 -64.42,-65 -64.19,-65 -63.96,-65 -63.73,-65 -63.5))", "dataset_titles": "Motion-sensing biologging data from Antarctic minke whales, West Antarctic Peninsula", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601542", "doi": "10.15784/601542", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biologging; Foraging; Ice; Minke Whales", "people": "Friedlaender, Ari", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Motion-sensing biologging data from Antarctic minke whales, West Antarctic Peninsula", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601542"}], "date_created": "Fri, 25 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The Antarctic Peninsula is warming and one of the consequences is a decrease in sea ice cover. Antarctic minke whales are the largest ice-obligate krill predator in the region, yet- little is known about their foraging behavior and ecology. The goals of the project are to use a suite of new technological tools to measure the underwater behavior of the whales and better understand how they exploit the sea ice habitat. Using video-recording motion-sensing tags, the underwater movements of the whales can be reconstructed and it can be determine where and when they feed. UAS (unmanned aerial systems) will be used to generate real-time images of sea ice cover that will be linked with tag data to determine how much time whales spend in sea ice versus open water, and how the behavior of the whales changes between these two habitats. Lastly, scientific echosounders will be used to characterize the prey field that the whales are exploiting and differences in krill availability inside and out of the ice will be investigated. All of this information is critical to understand the ecological role of Antarctic minke whales so that better predictions can be made regarding impacts of climate change not only on these animals, but on the structure and function of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. The project will promote the progress of science by elucidating the ecological role of a poorly known Antarctic predator and using this information to better understand the impact of changes that are occurring in Polar Regions. The educational and outreach program will increase awareness and understanding of minke whales, Antarctic marine ecosystems, sea ice, and the dynamics of climate change through the use of film, social media, and curriculum development for formal STEM educators. To understand how changes in sea ice will manifest in the demography of predators that rely on sea ice habitat requires knowledge of their behavior and ecology. The largest ice-dependent krill predator and most abundant cetacean in the Southern Ocean is the Antarctic minke whale (AMW)- yet, virtually nothing is known of its foraging behavior or ecological role. Thus, the knowledge to understand how climate-driven changes will affect these animals and therefore the dynamics of the ecosystem as a whole is lacking. The project will use multi-sensor and video recording tags, fisheries acoustics, and unmanned aerial systems to study the foraging behavior and ecological role of minke whales in the waters of the Antarctic Peninsula. The following research questions will be posed: 1. What is the feeding performance of AMWs? 2. How important is sea ice to the foraging behavior of AMW? 3. How do AMWs feed directly under sea ice? Proven tagging and analytical approaches to characterize the underwater feeding behavior and kinematics of minke whales will be used. Combined with quantitative measurements of the prey field, the energetic costs of feeding will be measured and it will be determined how minke whales optimize energy gain. Using animal-borne video recording tags and UAS technology it will also be determined how much feeding occurs directly under sea ice and how this mode differs from open water feeding. This knowledge will: (1) significantly enhance knowledge of the least-studied Antarctic krill predator; and (2) be made directly available to international, long-term efforts to understand how climate-driven changes will affect the structure and function of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. The educational and outreach efforts aim to increase awareness and understanding of: (i) the ecological role of minke whales around the Antarctic Peninsula; (ii) the effects of environmental change on an abundant but largely unstudied marine predator; (iii) the advanced methods and technologies used by whale researchers to study these cryptic animals and their prey; and (iv) the variety of careers in the ocean sciences by sharing the experiences of scientists and students. These educational aims will be achieved by delivering continuous near-real-time delivery of project events and data to informal audiences through social media channels as well as curricula and professional development programs that will provide formal STEM educators with specific standards-compliant lesson plans.", "east": -60.0, "geometry": "POINT(-62.5 -64.65)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Andvord Bay; USAP-DC; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; AMD; FIELD INVESTIGATION; Amd/Us; USA/NSF", "locations": "Andvord Bay", "north": -63.5, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Friedlaender, Ari", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -65.8, "title": "Foraging Behavior and Ecological Role of the Least Studied Antarctic Krill Predator, the Antarctic Minke Whale (Balaenoptera Bonaerensis)", "uid": "p0010207", "west": -65.0}, {"awards": "1906015 Kelley, Joanna", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": "Data, Code, and Results for the Zoarcoidei Phylogeny (Hotaling et al.)", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "200221", "doi": "10.5281/zenodo.4306092).", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "Zenodo", "science_program": null, "title": "Data, Code, and Results for the Zoarcoidei Phylogeny (Hotaling et al.)", "url": "https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4306092"}], "date_created": "Fri, 25 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Fish that reside in the harsh, subfreezing waters of the Antarctic and Arctic provide fascinating examples of adaptation to extreme environments. Species at both poles have independently evolved ways to deal with constant cold temperature, including the evolution of antifreeze proteins. Under freezing conditions, these compounds attach to ice crystals and prevent their growth. This lowers the tissue freezing point and reduces the chance the animal will be injured or killed. While it might seem that the need for unique adaptations to survive in polar waters would reduce species diversity in these habitats, recent evidence showed higher speciation rates in fishes from polar environments as compared to those found in warmer waters. This is despite the fact cold temperatures slow cellular processes, which had been expected to lower rates of molecular evolution in these species. To determine how rates of speciation and molecular evolution are linked in marine fishes, this project will compare the genomes of multiple polar and non-polar fishes. By doing so, it will (1) clarify how rates of evolution vary in polar environments, (2) identify general trends that shape the adaptive trajectories of polar fishes, and (3) determine how functional differences shape the evolution of novel compounds such as the antifreeze proteins some polar fishes rely upon to survive. In addition to training a new generation of scientists, the project will develop curriculum and outreach activities for elementary and undergraduate science courses. Materials will be delivered in classrooms across the western United States, with a focus on rural schools as part of a network for promoting evolutionary education in rural communities. To better understand the biology of polar fishes and the evolution of antifreeze proteins (AFPs), this research will compare the evolutionary histories of cold-adapted organisms to those of related non-polar species from both a genotypic and phenotypic context. In doing so, this research will test whether evolutionary rates are slowed in polar environments, perhaps due to constraints on cellular processes. It will also evaluate the effects of positive selection and the relaxation of selection on genes and pathways, both of which appear to be key adaptive strategies involved in the adaptation to polar environments. To address specific mechanisms by which extreme adaptation occurs, researchers will determine how global gradients of temperature and dissolved oxygen shape genome variation and influence adaptive trajectories among multiple species of eelpouts (family Zoarcidae). An in-vitro experimental approach will then be used to test functional hypotheses about the role of copy number variation in AFP evolution, and how and why multiple antifreeze protein isoforms have evolved. By comparing the genomes of multiple polar and non-polar fishes, the project will clarify how rates of evolution vary in polar environments, identify general trends that shape the adaptive trajectories of cold-adapted marine fishes, and determine how functional differences shape the evolution of novel proteins. This project addresses the strategic programmatic aim to provide a better understanding of the genetic underpinnings of organismal adaptations to their current environment and ways in which polar fishes may respond to changing conditions over different evolutionary time scales. The project is jointly funded by the Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems Program in the Office of Polar Programs of the Geosciences Directorate, and the Molecular Biophysics Program of the Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences in the Biological Sciences Directorate. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Antarctica; FISH; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; LABORATORY; AMD; USAP-DC; Amd/Us; USA/NSF", "locations": "Antarctica", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Kelley, Joanna", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e PHYSICAL MODELS \u003e LABORATORY", "repo": "Zenodo", "repositories": "Zenodo", "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "Genome Evolution in Polar Fishes", "uid": "p0010200", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "1750903 Ingels, Jeroen; 1750888 Aronson, Richard; 1750630 Smith, Craig", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-64 -66,-63.3 -66,-62.6 -66,-61.9 -66,-61.2 -66,-60.5 -66,-59.8 -66,-59.1 -66,-58.4 -66,-57.7 -66,-57 -66,-57 -66.3,-57 -66.6,-57 -66.9,-57 -67.2,-57 -67.5,-57 -67.8,-57 -68.1,-57 -68.4,-57 -68.7,-57 -69,-57.7 -69,-58.4 -69,-59.1 -69,-59.8 -69,-60.5 -69,-61.2 -69,-61.9 -69,-62.6 -69,-63.3 -69,-64 -69,-64 -68.7,-64 -68.4,-64 -68.1,-64 -67.8,-64 -67.5,-64 -67.2,-64 -66.9,-64 -66.6,-64 -66.3,-64 -66))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Mon, 21 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Worldwide publicity surrounding the calving of an iceberg the size of Delaware in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf on the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula presents a unique and time-sensitive opportunity for research and education on polar ecosystems in a changing climate. The goal of this project is to convene a workshop, drawing from the large fund of intellectual capital in the US and international Antarctic research communities. The two-day workshop will be held at Florida State University where a consortium of researchers with expertise in Antarctic biological, ecological, and ecosystem sciences will be gathered to share knowledge, identify important research knowledge gaps, and outline strategic plans for research. The workshop will help advance scientific and public understanding of the continent-wide changes that Antarctic ice shelves and surrounding ecosystems experience as ice shelves change. The primary products will be reports focusing on synthesizing, coordinating and integrating research efforts to understand the ecological impacts of ice-shelf collapses and large iceberg calving along the Antarctic Peninsula. The workshop will also provide an immediate, interactive experience for K-12 school children with a hands-on ?Saturday Polar Academy?, a children?s poster session, and question-answer session during the workshop. Children will have the opportunity to interact with Antarctic researchers and become familiar with Antarctic science, organisms, ecosystems and current issues, feeding their scientific curiosity. The calving of A-68, the 5,800-km2 iceberg shed in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf presents a unique and time-sensitive research opportunity. The scientific momentum and public interest created by this most recent event will be leveraged to convene a workshop at the earliest opportunity, drawing from the large intellectual capital in the US and international Antarctic research communities. The two-day workshop will be held at Florida State University, Coastal and Marine Laboratory on the Gulf Coast organized by Jeroen Ingels (Florida State University; FSU), Richard Aronson (Florida Institute of Technology; FIT), and Craig Smith (University of Hawaii at Manoa; UHM). A consortium of researchers with a diversity of expertise in Antarctic biological, ecological, and ecosystem sciences will be gathered to share knowledge, identify important research priorities and knowledge gaps, and outline strategic plans for research to advance understanding of the continent-wide changes that Antarctic ice shelves and surrounding ecosystems experience as ice shelves change.", "east": -57.0, "geometry": "POINT(-60.5 -67.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; USAP-DC; LABORATORY; AMD; Weddell Sea; GLACIERS/ICE SHEETS; ECOLOGICAL DYNAMICS; USA/NSF; SEA ICE; Amd/Us; Antarctica", "locations": "Antarctica; Weddell Sea", "north": -66.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Ingels, Jeroen; Aronson, Richard; Smith, Craig", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e PHYSICAL MODELS \u003e LABORATORY", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -69.0, "title": "Collaborative Research: RAPID/Workshop - Antarctic Ecosystem Research following Ice Shelf Collapse and Iceberg Calving Events", "uid": "p0010189", "west": -64.0}, {"awards": "1834986 Ballard, Grant", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((165 -77,165.5 -77,166 -77,166.5 -77,167 -77,167.5 -77,168 -77,168.5 -77,169 -77,169.5 -77,170 -77,170 -77.1,170 -77.2,170 -77.3,170 -77.4,170 -77.5,170 -77.6,170 -77.7,170 -77.8,170 -77.9,170 -78,169.5 -78,169 -78,168.5 -78,168 -78,167.5 -78,167 -78,166.5 -78,166 -78,165.5 -78,165 -78,165 -77.9,165 -77.8,165 -77.7,165 -77.6,165 -77.5,165 -77.4,165 -77.3,165 -77.2,165 -77.1,165 -77))", "dataset_titles": "Orthomosaics of Ross Island Penguin Colonies 2019 - 2021", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601612", "doi": "10.15784/601612", "keywords": "Aerial Imagery; Aerial Survey; Antarctica; Biota; Geotiff; Penguin; Photo/video; Photo/Video; Population Count; Ross Island; UAV", "people": "Shah, Kunal; Schmidt, Annie; Ballard, Grant", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Orthomosaics of Ross Island Penguin Colonies 2019 - 2021", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601612"}], "date_created": "Wed, 12 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "New methodologies for the deployment of coordinated unmanned aerial vehicles will be developed with the aim of attaining whole-colony imagery that can be used to characterize nesting habitats of Adelie penguins at Cape Crozier, on Ross Island, Antarctica. This information will be used to test hypotheses regarding relationships between terrain characteristics, nesting density, and breeding success. This population, potentially the largest in the world and at the southern limit of the species\u0027 range, has doubled in size over the past 20 years while most other colonies in the region have remained stable or declined. New information gained from this project will be useful in understanding the potential ofclimate-driven changes in terrestrial nesting habitats for impacting Adelie penguins in the future. The project will produce, and document, open-source software tools to help automate image processing for automated counting of Adelie penguins. The project will train graduate and undergraduate students and contribute materials to ongoing educational outreach programs based on related penguin science projects. Information gained from this project will contribute towards building robust, cost-effective protocols for monitoring Adelie penguin populations, a key ecosystem indicator identified in the draft Ross Sea Marine Protected Area Research and Monitoring Plan. Adelie penguins are important indicators of ecosystem function and change in the Southern Ocean. In addition to facing rapid changes in sea ice and other factors in their pelagic environment, their terrestrial nesting habitat is also changing. Understanding the species\u0027 response to such changes is critical for assessing its ability to adapt to the changing climate. The objective of this project is to test several hypotheses about the influence of fine-scale nesting habitat, nest density, and breeding success of Adelie penguins in the Ross Sea region. To accomplish this, the project will develop algorithms to improve efficiency and safety of surveys by unmanned aerial systems and develop and disseminate an automated image processing workflow. Images collected during several UAV surveys will be used to estimate the number of nesting adults and chicks produced, as well as estimate nesting density in different parts of two colonies on Ross Island, Antarctica, that differ in size by two orders of magnitude. Imagery will be used to generate high resolution digital surface/elevation models that will allow terrain variables like flood risk and terrain complexity to be derived. Combining the surface model with the nest and chick counts at the two colonies will provide relationships between habitat covariates, nest density, and breeding success. The approaches developed will enable Adelie penguin population sizes and potentially several other indicators in the Ross Sea Marine Protected Area Research and Monitoring Plan to be determined and evaluated. The flight control algorithms developed have the potential to be used for many types of surveys, especially when large areas need to be covered in a short period with extreme weather potential and difficult landing options. Aerial images and video will be used to create useable materials to be included in outreach and educational programs. The automated image processing workflow and classification models will be developed as open source software and will be made freely available for others addressing similar wildlife monitoring challenges. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": 170.0, "geometry": "POINT(167.5 -77.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "UAS; Ross Island; USA/NSF; FIELD INVESTIGATION; AMD; UAV; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; USAP-DC; Amd/Us; Penguin", "locations": "Ross Island", "north": -77.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Ballard, Grant; Schmidt, Annie; Schwager, Mac; McKown, Matthew", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "Does Nest Density Matter? Using Novel Technology to Collect Whole-colony Data on Adelie Penguins.", "uid": "p0010178", "west": 165.0}, {"awards": "1935901 Dugger, Katie; 1935870 Ballard, Grant", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-177 -60,-174 -60,-171 -60,-168 -60,-165 -60,-162 -60,-159 -60,-156 -60,-153 -60,-150 -60,-150 -61.8,-150 -63.6,-150 -65.4,-150 -67.2,-150 -69,-150 -70.8,-150 -72.6,-150 -74.4,-150 -76.2,-150 -78,-153 -78,-156 -78,-159 -78,-162 -78,-165 -78,-168 -78,-171 -78,-174 -78,-177 -78,180 -78,178.5 -78,177 -78,175.5 -78,174 -78,172.5 -78,171 -78,169.5 -78,168 -78,166.5 -78,165 -78,165 -76.2,165 -74.4,165 -72.6,165 -70.8,165 -69,165 -67.2,165 -65.4,165 -63.6,165 -61.8,165 -60,166.5 -60,168 -60,169.5 -60,171 -60,172.5 -60,174 -60,175.5 -60,177 -60,178.5 -60,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": "Adelie penguin resighting data 1997-2021 from the California Avian Data Center hosted by Point Reyes Bird Observatory Conservation Science", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601444", "doi": "10.15784/601444", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Antarctica; Biota; Demography; Mark-Recapture; Monitoring; Penguin; Ross Island", "people": "Ballard, Grant", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Adelie penguin resighting data 1997-2021 from the California Avian Data Center hosted by Point Reyes Bird Observatory Conservation Science", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601444"}], "date_created": "Wed, 12 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part 1: Non-technical description Polar regions are experiencing some of the most dramatic effects of climate change resulting in large-scale changes in sea ice cover. Despite this, there are relatively few long-term studies on polar species that evaluate the full scope of these effects. Over the last two decades, this team has conducted globally unique demographic studies of Ad\u00e9lie penguins in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, to explore several potential mechanisms for population change. This five-year project will use penguin-borne sensors to evaluate foraging conditions and behavior and environmental conditions on early life stages of Ad\u00e9lie penguins. Results will help to better understand population dynamics and how populations might respond to future environmental change. To promote STEM literacy, education and public outreach efforts will include multiple activities. The PenguinCam and PenguinScience.com website (impacts of \u003e1 million hits per month and use by \u003e300 classrooms/~10,000 students) will be continued. Each field season will also have \u2018Live From the Penguins\u2019 Skype calls to classes (~120/season). Classroom-ready activities that are aligned with Next Generation Science Standards will be developed with media products and science journal papers translated to grade 5-8 literacy level. The project will also train early career scientists, postdoctoral scholars, graduate students and post-graduate interns. Finally, in partnership with an Environmental Leadership Program, the team will host 2-year Roger Arliner Young Conservation Fellow, which is a program designed to increase opportunities for recent college graduates of color to learn about, engage with, and enter the environmental conservation sector. Part II: Technical description: Leveraging 25 years of data on marked individuals from two Ad\u00e9lie penguin colonies in the Ross Sea, combined with new biologging tags that track detailed penguin foraging efforts and environmental conditions, researchers will accomplish three major goals: 1) assess the quality of natal conditions by determining how environmental conditions, relative prey availability, and diet composition influence parental foraging behavior, chick provisioning, and fledging mass; 2) determine the spatial distribution and foraging behavior of juvenile Ad\u00e9lie penguins and the relative influence of natal versus post-fledging environmental conditions on their survival; and 3) determine the role of natal and post-fledging conditions in shaping individual life history traits and colony growth. Data from several types of penguin-borne biologging devices will be used to provide multiple lines of evidence for how early-life conditions and penguin behavior relate to penguin energetics and population size. This study is the first to integrate salinity, temperature, light level, depth, accelerometry, video loggers, and GPS data with longitudinal demographic information, providing an unprecedented ability to understand how penguins use the environment and enabling new insights from previously collected data. Changes in salinity due to increased glacial melt have important implications for sea ice formation, ocean circulation and productivity of the Southern Ocean, and potentially global temperature change. The penguin-borne sensors deployed in this study will support the NSF Office of Polar Programs priority: How does society more efficiently observe and measure the polar regions? It represents only the second study to track juvenile Ad\u00e9lie penguins at sea, the first in the Ross Sea region, the first with substantial sample sizes, and the first to assess juvenile survival rates directly, integrating early life factors and environmental conditions to better understand colony growth trajectories. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": -150.0, "geometry": "POINT(-172.5 -69)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Ross Island; AMD; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Amd/Us; Adelie Penguin; USAP-DC; USA/NSF; FIELD SURVEYS", "locations": "Ross Island", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Ballard, Grant; Schmidt, Annie; Varsani, Arvind; Dugger, Katie; Orben, Rachael", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD SURVEYS", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "Population Growth at the Southern Extreme: Effects of Early Life Conditions on Adelie penguin Individuals and Colonies", "uid": "p0010179", "west": 165.0}, {"awards": "1543459 Dugger, Katie; 1543498 Ballard, Grant; 1543541 Ainley, David", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-177 -60,-174 -60,-171 -60,-168 -60,-165 -60,-162 -60,-159 -60,-156 -60,-153 -60,-150 -60,-150 -61.8,-150 -63.6,-150 -65.4,-150 -67.2,-150 -69,-150 -70.8,-150 -72.6,-150 -74.4,-150 -76.2,-150 -78,-153 -78,-156 -78,-159 -78,-162 -78,-165 -78,-168 -78,-171 -78,-174 -78,-177 -78,180 -78,178.5 -78,177 -78,175.5 -78,174 -78,172.5 -78,171 -78,169.5 -78,168 -78,166.5 -78,165 -78,165 -76.2,165 -74.4,165 -72.6,165 -70.8,165 -69,165 -67.2,165 -65.4,165 -63.6,165 -61.8,165 -60,166.5 -60,168 -60,169.5 -60,171 -60,172.5 -60,174 -60,175.5 -60,177 -60,178.5 -60,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": "Adelie penguin banding data 1994-2021 from the California Avian Data Center hosted by Point Reyes Bird Observatory Conservation Science; Adelie penguin resighting data 1997-2021 from the California Avian Data Center hosted by Point Reyes Bird Observatory Conservation Science; Locations of Adelie penguins from geolocating dive recorders 2017-2019; Penguinscience Data Sharing Website", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601482", "doi": "10.15784/601482", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Animal Behavior Observation; Antarctica; Biologging; Biota; Foraging Ecology; Geolocator; GPS Data; Migration; Ross Sea; Winter", "people": "Lescroel, Amelie; Ainley, David; Schmidt, Annie; Ballard, Grant; Lisovski, Simeon; Dugger, Katie", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Locations of Adelie penguins from geolocating dive recorders 2017-2019", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601482"}, {"dataset_uid": "200278", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "California Avian Data Center", "science_program": null, "title": "Penguinscience Data Sharing Website", "url": "https://data.pointblue.org/apps/penguin_science/"}, {"dataset_uid": "601443", "doi": "10.15784/601443", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Antarctica; Biota; Demography; Penguin; Ross Sea; Seabirds", "people": "Ballard, Grant", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Adelie penguin banding data 1994-2021 from the California Avian Data Center hosted by Point Reyes Bird Observatory Conservation Science", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601443"}, {"dataset_uid": "601444", "doi": "10.15784/601444", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Antarctica; Biota; Demography; Mark-Recapture; Monitoring; Penguin; Ross Island", "people": "Ballard, Grant", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Adelie penguin resighting data 1997-2021 from the California Avian Data Center hosted by Point Reyes Bird Observatory Conservation Science", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601444"}], "date_created": "Tue, 11 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The Ross Sea region of the Southern Ocean is experiencing growing sea ice cover in both extent and duration. These trends contrast those of the well-studied, western Antarctic Peninsula area, where sea ice has been disappearing. Unlike the latter, little is known about how expanding sea ice coverage might affect the regional Antarctic marine ecosystem. This project aims to better understand some of the potential effects of the changing ice conditions on the marine ecosystem using the widely-recognized indicator species - the Ad\u00e9lie Penguin. A four-year effort will build on previous results spanning 19 seasons at Ross Island to explore how successes or failures in each part of the penguin\u0027s annual cycle are effected by ice conditions and how these carry over to the next annual recruitment cycle, especially with respect to the penguin\u0027s condition upon arrival in the spring. Education and public outreach activities will continually be promoted through the PenguinCam and PenguinScience websites (sites with greater than 1 million hits a month) and \"NestCheck\" (a site that is logged-on by \u003e300 classrooms annually that allows students to follow penguin families in their breeding efforts). To encourage students in pursuing educational and career pathways in the Science Technology Engineering and Math fields, the project will also provide stories from the field in a Penguin Journal, develop classroom-ready activities aligned with New Generation Science Standards, increase the availability of instructional presentations as powerpoint files and short webisodes. The project will provide additional outreach activities through local, state and national speaking engagements about penguins, Antarctic science and climate change. The annual outreach efforts are aimed at reaching over 15,000 students through the website, 300 teachers through presentations and workshops, and 500 persons in the general public. The project also will train four interns (undergraduate and graduate level), two post-doctoral researchers, and a science writer/photographer. The project will accomplish three major goals, all of which relate to how Ad\u00e9lie Penguins adapt to, or cope with environmental change. Specifically the project seeks to determine 1) how changing winter sea ice conditions in the Ross Sea region affect penguin migration, behavior and survival and alter the carry-over effects (COEs) to subsequent reproduction; 2) the interplay between extrinsic and intrinsic factors influencing COEs over multiple years of an individual?s lifetime; and 3) how local environmental change may affect population change via impacts to nesting habitat, interacting with individual quality and COEs. Retrospective analyses will be conducted using 19 years of colony based data and collect additional information on individually marked, known-age and known-history penguins, from new recruits to possibly senescent individuals. Four years of new information will be gained from efforts based at two colonies (Cape Royds and Crozier), using radio frequency identification tags to automatically collect data on breeding and foraging effort of marked, known-history birds to explore penguin response to resource availability within the colony as well as between colonies (mates, nesting material, habitat availability). Additional geolocation/time-depth recorders will be used to investigate travels and foraging during winter of these birds. The combined efforts will allow an assessment of the effects of penguin behavior/success in one season on its behavior in the next (e.g. how does winter behavior affect arrival time and body condition on subsequent breeding). It is at the individual level that penguins are responding successfully, or not, to ongoing marine habitat change in the Ross Sea region.", "east": -150.0, "geometry": "POINT(-172.5 -69)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "USA/NSF; AMD; Adelie Penguin; Amd/Us; FIELD INVESTIGATION; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Ross Island; USAP-DC; Penguin", "locations": "Ross Island", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Instrumentation and Support; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Ballard, Grant; Ainley, David; Dugger, Katie", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "California Avian Data Center; USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "A Full Lifecycle Approach to Understanding Ad\u00e9lie Penguin Response to Changing Pack Ice Conditions in the Ross Sea.", "uid": "p0010177", "west": 165.0}, {"awards": "1643466 Hollibaugh, James; 1643345 Popp, Brian", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-78.20206667 -64.03195833,-76.785055836 -64.03195833,-75.368045002 -64.03195833,-73.951034168 -64.03195833,-72.534023334 -64.03195833,-71.1170125 -64.03195833,-69.700001666 -64.03195833,-68.282990832 -64.03195833,-66.865979998 -64.03195833,-65.448969164 -64.03195833,-64.03195833 -64.03195833,-64.03195833 -64.554377497,-64.03195833 -65.076796664,-64.03195833 -65.599215831,-64.03195833 -66.121634998,-64.03195833 -66.644054165,-64.03195833 -67.166473332,-64.03195833 -67.688892499,-64.03195833 -68.211311666,-64.03195833 -68.733730833,-64.03195833 -69.25615,-65.448969164 -69.25615,-66.865979998 -69.25615,-68.282990832 -69.25615,-69.700001666 -69.25615,-71.1170125 -69.25615,-72.534023334 -69.25615,-73.951034168 -69.25615,-75.368045002 -69.25615,-76.785055836 -69.25615,-78.20206667 -69.25615,-78.20206667 -68.733730833,-78.20206667 -68.211311666,-78.20206667 -67.688892499,-78.20206667 -67.166473332,-78.20206667 -66.644054165,-78.20206667 -66.121634998,-78.20206667 -65.599215831,-78.20206667 -65.076796664,-78.20206667 -64.554377497,-78.20206667 -64.03195833))", "dataset_titles": "\"Collaborative research: Chemoautotrophy in Antarctic bacterioplankton communities supported by the oxidation of urea-derived nitrogen\"; Expedition data of LMG1801", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "200124", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of LMG1801", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1801"}, {"dataset_uid": "200193", "doi": "Not yet assigned", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "\"Collaborative research: Chemoautotrophy in Antarctic bacterioplankton communities supported by the oxidation of urea-derived nitrogen\"", "url": "https://www.bco-dmo.org/project/775717"}], "date_created": "Fri, 18 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Part 1: Nitrification is the conversion of ammonium to nitrate by a two-step process involving two different guilds of microorganisms: ammonia- and nitrite-oxidizers. The process is central to the global nitrogen cycle, affecting everything from retention of fertilizer on croplands to removal of excess nitrogen from coastal waters before it can cause blooms of harmful algae. It also produces nitrous oxide, an ozone-destroying, greenhouse gas. The energy derived from both steps of nitrification is used to convert inorganic carbon into microbial biomass. The biomass produced contributes to the overall food web production of the Southern Ocean and may be a particularly important subsidy during winter when low light levels restrict the other major source of biomass, primary production by single-celled plants. This project addresses three fundamental questions about the biology and geochemistry of polar oceans, with a focus on the process of nitrification. The first question the project will address concerns the contribution of chemoautotrophy (based on nitrification) to the overall supply of organic carbon to the food web of the Southern Ocean. Previous measurements indicate that it contributes about 9% to the Antarctic food web on an annual basis, but those measurements did not include the additional production associated with nitrite oxidation. The second question to be addressed is related to the first and concerns the coupling between the steps of the process. The third seeks to determine the significance of the contribution of other sources of nitrogen, (specifically organic nitrogen and urea released by other organisms) to nitrification because these contributions may not be assessed by standard protocols. Measurements made by others suggest that urea in particular might be as important as ammonium to nitrification in polar regions. This project will result in training a postdoctoral researcher and provide undergraduate students opportunities to gain hand-on experience with research on microbial geochemistry. The Palmer LTER (PAL) activities have focused largely on the interaction between ocean climate and the marine food web affecting top predators. Relatively little effort has been devoted to studying processes related to the microbial geochemistry of nitrogen cycling as part of the Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) program, yet these are a major themes at other sites. This work will contribute substantially to understanding an important aspect of nitrogen cycling and bacterioplankton production in the PAL-LTER study area. The team will be working synergistically and be participating fully in the education and outreach efforts of the Palmer LTER, including making highlights of the findings available for posting to their project web site and participating in any special efforts they have in the area of outreach. Part 2: The proposed work will quantify oxidation rates of 15N supplied as ammonium, urea and nitrite, allowing us to estimate the contribution of urea-derived N and complete nitrification (ammonia to nitrate) to chemoautotrophy and bacterioplankton production in Antarctic coastal waters. The project will compare these estimates to direct measurements of the incorporation of 14C into organic matter the dark for an independent estimate of chemoautotrophy. The team aims to collect samples spanning the water column: from surface water (~10 m), winter water (50-100 m) and circumpolar deep water (\u003e150 m); on a cruise surveying the continental shelf and slope west of the Antarctic Peninsula in the austral summer of 2018. Other samples will be taken to measure the concentrations of nitrate, nitrite, ammonia and urea, for qPCR analysis of the abundance of relevant microorganisms, and for studies of related processes. The project will rely on collaboration with the existing Palmer LTER to ensure that ancillary data (bacterioplankton abundance and production, chlorophyll, physical and chemical variables) will be available. The synergistic activities of this project along with the LTER activities will provide a unique opportunity to assess chemoautotrophy in context of the overall ecosystem?s dynamics- including both primary and secondary production processes.", "east": -64.03195833, "geometry": "POINT(-71.1170125 -66.644054165)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Pal-Lter; NITROGEN; SHIPS; USAP-DC; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; BACTERIA/ARCHAEA; BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES; Amd/Us; West Antarctic Shelf; USA/NSF; AMD", "locations": "West Antarctic Shelf; Pal-Lter", "north": -64.03195833, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Hollibaugh, James T.; Popp, Brian", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e SHIPS", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "BCO-DMO; R2R", "science_programs": null, "south": -69.25615, "title": "Collaborative Research: Chemoautotrophy in Antarctic Bacterioplankton Communities Supported by the Oxidation of Urea-derived Nitrogen", "uid": "p0010150", "west": -78.20206667}, {"awards": "0732450 Van Dover, Cindy; 0732917 McCormick, Michael; 0732711 Smith, Craig; 0732983 Vernet, Maria", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-60.5 -63.1,-59.99 -63.1,-59.48 -63.1,-58.97 -63.1,-58.46 -63.1,-57.95 -63.1,-57.44 -63.1,-56.93 -63.1,-56.42 -63.1,-55.91 -63.1,-55.4 -63.1,-55.4 -63.29,-55.4 -63.48,-55.4 -63.67,-55.4 -63.86,-55.4 -64.05,-55.4 -64.24,-55.4 -64.43,-55.4 -64.62,-55.4 -64.81,-55.4 -65,-55.91 -65,-56.42 -65,-56.93 -65,-57.44 -65,-57.95 -65,-58.46 -65,-58.97 -65,-59.48 -65,-59.99 -65,-60.5 -65,-60.5 -64.81,-60.5 -64.62,-60.5 -64.43,-60.5 -64.24,-60.5 -64.05,-60.5 -63.86,-60.5 -63.67,-60.5 -63.48,-60.5 -63.29,-60.5 -63.1))", "dataset_titles": "LARISSA: Impact of ice-shelf loss on geochemical profiles and microbial community composition in marine sediments of the Larsen A embayment, Antarctic Peninsula; NBP1001 cruise data; NBP1203 cruise data; Species Abundance Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf Ice acquired during R/V Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1203", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601073", "doi": "10.15784/601073", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Chemistry:ice; Chemistry:Ice; Geochemistry; Glaciers/ice Sheet; Glaciers/Ice Sheet; Glaciology; Ice Core Records; LARISSA; Microbiology", "people": "McCormick, Michael", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "LARISSA: Impact of ice-shelf loss on geochemical profiles and microbial community composition in marine sediments of the Larsen A embayment, Antarctic Peninsula", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601073"}, {"dataset_uid": "601304", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Box Corer; LARISSA; Larsen Ice Shelf; Macrofauna; Megafauna; NBP1203; Oceans; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Seafloor Sampling; Species Abundance", "people": "Smith, Craig", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Species Abundance Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf Ice acquired during R/V Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1203", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601304"}, {"dataset_uid": "000143", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "NBP1203 cruise data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1203"}, {"dataset_uid": "000142", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "NBP1001 cruise data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1001"}], "date_created": "Fri, 09 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "A profound transformation in ecosystem structure and function is occurring in coastal waters of the western Weddell Sea, with the collapse of the Larsen B ice shelf. This transformation appears to be yielding a redistribution of energy flow between chemoautotrophic and photosynthetic production, and to be causing the rapid demise of the extraordinary seep ecosystem discovered beneath the ice shelf. This event provides an ideal opportunity to examine fundamental aspects of ecosystem transition associated with climate change. We propose to test the following hypotheses to elucidate the transformations occurring in marine ecosystems as a consequence of the Larsen B collapse: (1) The biogeographic isolation and sub-ice shelf setting of the Larsen B seep has led to novel habitat characteristics, chemoautotrophically dependent taxa and functional adaptations. (2) Benthic communities beneath the former Larsen B ice shelf are fundamentally different from assemblages at similar depths in the Weddell sea-ice zone, and resemble oligotrophic deep-sea communities. Larsen B assemblages are undergoing rapid change. (3) The previously dark, oligotrophic waters of the Larsen B embayment now support a thriving phototrophic community, with production rates and phytoplankton composition similar to other productive areas of the Weddell Sea. To document rapid changes occurring in the Larsen B ecosystem, we will use a remotely operated vehicle, shipboard samplers, and moored sediment traps. We will characterize microbial, macrofaunal and megafaunal components of the seep community; evaluate patterns of surface productivity, export flux, and benthic faunal composition in areas previously covered by the ice shelf, and compare these areas to the open sea-ice zone. These changes will be placed within the geological, glaciological and climatological context that led to ice-shelf retreat, through companion research projects funded in concert with this effort. Together these projects will help predict the likely consequences of ice-shelf collapse to marine ecosystems in other regions of Antarctica vulnerable to climate change. The research features international collaborators from Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom. The broader impacts include participation of a science writer; broadcast of science segments by members of the Jim Lehrer News Hour (Public Broadcasting System); material for summer courses in environmental change; mentoring of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows; and showcasing scientific activities and findings to students and public through podcasts.", "east": -55.4, "geometry": "POINT(-57.95 -64.05)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "NBP1203; USAP-DC; Amd/Us; LARISSA; Larsen Ice Shelf; Species Abundance Data; R/V NBP; Antarctic Peninsula; NBP1001; USA/NSF; AMD; Antarctica; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS", "locations": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Larsen Ice Shelf", "north": -63.1, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "McCormick, Michael; Vernet, Maria; Van Dover, Cindy; Smith, Craig", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "R2R; USAP-DC", "science_programs": "LARISSA", "south": -65.0, "title": "Collaborative Research in IPY: Abrupt Environmental Change in the Larsen Ice Shelf System, a Multidisciplinary Approach - Marine Ecosystems.", "uid": "p0010135", "west": -60.5}, {"awards": "1543483 Sedwick, Peter", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -66,-179.5 -66,-179 -66,-178.5 -66,-178 -66,-177.5 -66,-177 -66,-176.5 -66,-176 -66,-175.5 -66,-175 -66,-175 -67.2,-175 -68.4,-175 -69.6,-175 -70.8,-175 -72,-175 -73.2,-175 -74.4,-175 -75.6,-175 -76.8,-175 -78,-175.5 -78,-176 -78,-176.5 -78,-177 -78,-177.5 -78,-178 -78,-178.5 -78,-179 -78,-179.5 -78,180 -78,178.5 -78,177 -78,175.5 -78,174 -78,172.5 -78,171 -78,169.5 -78,168 -78,166.5 -78,165 -78,165 -76.8,165 -75.6,165 -74.4,165 -73.2,165 -72,165 -70.8,165 -69.6,165 -68.4,165 -67.2,165 -66,166.5 -66,168 -66,169.5 -66,171 -66,172.5 -66,174 -66,175.5 -66,177 -66,178.5 -66,-180 -66))", "dataset_titles": "Impact of Convective Processes and Sea Ice Formation on the Distribution of Iron in the Ross Sea: Closing the Seasonal Cycle; NBP1704 Expedition Data", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "001363", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "NBP1704 Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1704"}, {"dataset_uid": "200150", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "Impact of Convective Processes and Sea Ice Formation on the Distribution of Iron in the Ross Sea: Closing the Seasonal Cycle", "url": "https://www.bco-dmo.org/project/815403"}], "date_created": "Mon, 22 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The waters of the Ross Sea continental shelf are among the most productive in the Southern Ocean, and may comprise a significant regional oceanic sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide. In this region, primary production can be limited by the supply of dissolved iron to surface waters during the growing season. Water-column observations, sampling and measurements are to be carried out in the late autumn-early winter time frame on the Ross Sea continental shelf and coastal polynyas (Terra Nova Bay and Ross Ice Shelf polynyas), in order to better understand what drives the biogeochemical redistribution of micronutrient iron species during the onset of convective mixing and sea-ice formation at this time of year, thereby setting conditions for primary production during the following spring. The spectacular field setting and remote, hostile conditions that accompany the proposed field study present exciting possibilities for STEM education and training. At the K-12 level, the project seeks to support the development of educational outreach materials targeting elementary and middle school students, pre-service science teachers, and in-service science teachers.", "east": 165.0, "geometry": "POINT(175 -72)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "POLYNYAS; USAP-DC; NBP1704; Iron; Ross Sea; TRACE ELEMENTS; SALINITY/DENSITY; R/V NBP; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES", "locations": "Ross Sea", "north": -66.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Sedwick, Peter", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "BCO-DMO; R2R", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "Impact of Convective Processes and Sea Ice Formation on the Distribution of Iron in the Ross Sea: Closing the Seasonal Cycle", "uid": "p0010111", "west": -175.0}, {"awards": "1142158 Cheng, Chi-Hing; 0231006 DeVries, Arthur", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((163 -76.5,163.5 -76.5,164 -76.5,164.5 -76.5,165 -76.5,165.5 -76.5,166 -76.5,166.5 -76.5,167 -76.5,167.5 -76.5,168 -76.5,168 -76.63,168 -76.76,168 -76.89,168 -77.02,168 -77.15,168 -77.28,168 -77.41,168 -77.54,168 -77.67,168 -77.8,167.5 -77.8,167 -77.8,166.5 -77.8,166 -77.8,165.5 -77.8,165 -77.8,164.5 -77.8,164 -77.8,163.5 -77.8,163 -77.8,163 -77.67,163 -77.54,163 -77.41,163 -77.28,163 -77.15,163 -77.02,163 -76.89,163 -76.76,163 -76.63,163 -76.5))", "dataset_titles": "High-resolution benthic seawater temperature record 1999-2012 (25-40m depth) from near intake jetty at McMurdo Station, Antarctica; Metadata associated with the description of Akarotaxis gouldae n. sp. (Bathydraconidae)", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601811", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Bellingshausen Sea; Cryosphere; Southern Ocean", "people": "Biesack, Ellen; Corso, Andrew; Desvignes, Thomas; McDowell, Jan; Cheng, Chi-Hing; Steinberg, Deborah; Hilton, Eric", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LTER", "title": "Metadata associated with the description of Akarotaxis gouldae n. sp. (Bathydraconidae)", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601811"}, {"dataset_uid": "601275", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Benthic; McMurdo Sound; Mcmurdo Station; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; Temperature Probe; Water Temperature", "people": "Cziko, Paul; Devries, Arthur; Cheng, Chi-Hing", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "High-resolution benthic seawater temperature record 1999-2012 (25-40m depth) from near intake jetty at McMurdo Station, Antarctica", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601275"}], "date_created": "Wed, 08 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Antarctic notothenioid fishes exhibit two adaptive traits to survive in frigid temperatures. The first of these is the production of anti-freeze proteins in their blood and tissues. The second is a system-wide ability to perform cellular and physiological functions at extremely cold temperatures.The proposal goals are to show how Antarctic fishes use these characteristics to avoid freezing, and which additional genes are turned on, or suppressed in order for these fishes to maintain normal physiological function in extreme cold temperatures. Progressively colder habitats are encountered in the high latitude McMurdo Sound and Ross Shelf region, along with somewhat milder near?shore water environments in the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). By quantifying the extent of ice crystals invading and lodging in the spleen, the percentage of McMurdo Sound fish during austral summer (Oct-Feb) will be compared to the WAP intertidal fish during austral winter (Jul-Sep) to demonstrate their capability and extent of freeze avoidance. Resistance to ice entry in surface epithelia (e.g. skin, gill and intestinal lining) is another expression of the adaptation of these fish to otherwise lethally freezing conditions. The adaptive nature of a uniquely characteristic polar genome will be explored by the study of the transcriptome (the set of expressed RNA transcripts that constitutes the precursor to set of proteins expressed by an entire genome). Three notothenioid species (E.maclovinus, D. Mawsoni and C. aceratus) will be analysed to document evolutionary genetic changes (both gain and loss) shaped by life under extreme chronic cold. A differential gene expression (DGE) study will be carried out on these different species to evaluate evolutionary modification of tissue-wide response to heat challenges. The transcriptomes and other sequencing libraries will contribute to de novo ice-fish genome sequencing efforts.", "east": 168.0, "geometry": "POINT(165.5 -77.15)", "instruments": "IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e CTD", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "McMurdo Sound; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Water Temperature; AQUATIC SCIENCES; OCEAN TEMPERATURE; FIELD INVESTIGATION; USAP-DC", "locations": "McMurdo Sound", "north": -76.5, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Cheng, Chi-Hing; Devries, Arthur", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -77.8, "title": "Antarctic Notothenioid Fish Freeze Avoidance and Genome-wide Evolution for Life in the Cold", "uid": "p0010091", "west": 163.0}, {"awards": "1341661 Near, Thomas", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": "Phylogenomics of Antarctic notothenioid fishes", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601262", "doi": "10.15784/601262", "keywords": "Adaptive Radiation; Antarctica; Fish; Notothenioidei; Phylogeny; Southern Ocean; Speciation", "people": "Dornburg, Alex; Near, Thomas", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Phylogenomics of Antarctic notothenioid fishes", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601262"}, {"dataset_uid": "601264", "doi": null, "keywords": "Adaptive Radiation; Antarctica; Fish; Notothenioidei; Phylogeny; Southern Ocean; Speciation", "people": "Near, Thomas; Dornburg, Alex", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Phylogenomics of Antarctic notothenioid fishes", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601264"}], "date_created": "Sat, 29 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Understanding how groups of organisms respond to climate change is fundamentally important to assessing the impacts of human activities as well as understanding how past climatic shifts have shaped biological diversity over deep stretches of time. The fishes occupying the near-shore marine habitats around Antarctica are dominated by one group of closely related species called notothenioids. It appears dramatic changes in Antarctic climate were important in the origin and evolutionary diversification of this economically important lineage of fishes. Deposits of fossil fishes in Antarctica that were formed when the continent was experiencing milder temperatures show that the area was home to a much more diverse array of fish lineages. Today the waters of the Southern Ocean are very cold, and often below freezing, but notothenioids fishes exhibit a number of adaptions to live in this harsh set of marine habitats, including the presence of anti-freeze proteins. This research project will collect DNA sequences from hundreds of genes to infer the genealogical relationships of nearly all 124 notothenioid species, and use mathematical techniques to estimate the ages of species and lineages. Knowledge on the timing of evolutionary divergence in notothenioids will allow investigators to assess if timing of previous major climatic shifts in Antarctica are correlated with key events in the formation of the modern Southern Ocean fish fauna. The project will also further the NSF goals of making scientific discoveries available to the general public and of training new generations of scientists. The project will support educational outreach activities to teenager groups and to the general public through a natural history museum exhibit and other public lectures. It will provide professional training opportunities for graduate students and a postdoctoral research scholar. Adaptive radiation, where lineages experience high rates of evolutionary diversification coincident with ecological divergence, is mostly studied in island ecosystems. Notothenioids dominate the fish fauna of the Southern Ocean and exhibit antifreeze glycoproteins that allow occupation of the subzero waters. Notothenioids are noted as one of the only examples of adaptive radiation among marine fishes, but the evolutionary history of diversification and radiation into different ecological habitats is poorly understood. This research will generate a species phylogeny (evolutionary history) for nearly all of the 124 recognized notothenioid species to investigate the mechanisms of adaptive radiation in this lineage. The phylogeny is inferred from approximately 350 genes sampled using next generation DNA sequencing and related techniques. Morphometric data are taken for museum specimens to investigate the tempo of morphological diversification and to determine if there are correlations between rates of lineage diversification and the origin of morphological disparity. The patterns of lineage, morphological, and ecological diversification in the notothenioid radiation will be compared to the paleoclimatic record to determine if past instances of global climate change have shaped the evolutionary diversification of this lineage of polar-adapted fishes.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "FISH; Fish; AMD; USA/NSF; Southern Ocean; Amd/Us; NOT APPLICABLE; USAP-DC; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Notothenioidei; Phylogeny", "locations": "Southern Ocean", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Near, Thomas", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "Phylogenomic Study of Adaptive Radiation in Antarctic Fishes", "uid": "p0010087", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "1826712 McMahon, Kelton; 1443386 Emslie, Steven; 1443585 Polito, Michael; 1443424 McMahon, Kelton", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-166 -60,-152 -60,-138 -60,-124 -60,-110 -60,-96 -60,-82 -60,-68 -60,-54 -60,-40 -60,-40 -61.8,-40 -63.6,-40 -65.4,-40 -67.2,-40 -69,-40 -70.8,-40 -72.6,-40 -74.4,-40 -76.2,-40 -78,-54 -78,-68 -78,-82 -78,-96 -78,-110 -78,-124 -78,-138 -78,-152 -78,-166 -78,180 -78,178 -78,176 -78,174 -78,172 -78,170 -78,168 -78,166 -78,164 -78,162 -78,160 -78,160 -76.2,160 -74.4,160 -72.6,160 -70.8,160 -69,160 -67.2,160 -65.4,160 -63.6,160 -61.8,160 -60,162 -60,164 -60,166 -60,168 -60,170 -60,172 -60,174 -60,176 -60,178 -60,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": "Amino acid nitrogen isotope values of modern and ancient Ad\u00e9lie penguin eggshells from the Ross Sea and Antarctic Peninsula regions; Amino acid nitrogen isotope values of penguins from the Antarctic Peninsula region 1930s to 2010s; Ancient Adelie penguin colony revealed by snowmelt at Cape Irizar, Ross Sea, Antarctica; Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values of Antarctic Krill from the South Shetland Islands and the northern Antarctic Peninsula 2007 and 2009; Radiocarbon dates from pygoscelid penguin tissues excavated at Stranger Point, King George Island, Antarctic Peninsula; Radiocarbon dating and stable isotope values of penguin and seal tissues recovered from ornithogenic soils on Platter Island, Danger Islands Archipelago, Antarctic Peninsula in December 2015.; Radioisotope dates and carbon (\u03b413C) and nitrogen (\u03b415N) stable isotope values from modern and mummified Ad\u00e9lie Penguin chick carcasses and tissue from the Ross Sea, Antarctica; Radiometric dating, geochemical proxies, and predator biological remains obtained from aquatic sediment cores on South Georgia Island.; Receding ice drove parallel expansions in Southern Ocean penguin; SNP data from \"Receding ice drove parallel expansions in Southern Ocean penguins\".; Stable isotope analysis of multiple tissues from chick carcasses of three pygoscelid penguins in Antarctica; Stable isotopes of Adelie Penguin chick bone collagen; The rise and fall of an ancient Adelie penguin \u0027supercolony\u0027 at Cape Adare, Antarctica", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601327", "doi": "10.15784/601327", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Antarctica; Biota; Cape Adare; East Antarctica; Population Movement; Pygoscelis Adeliae; Radiocarbon; Ross Sea; Sea Level Rise; Stable Isotopes", "people": "Patterson, William; McKenzie, Ashley; Emslie, Steven D.", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "The rise and fall of an ancient Adelie penguin \u0027supercolony\u0027 at Cape Adare, Antarctica", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601327"}, {"dataset_uid": "601212", "doi": "10.15784/601212", "keywords": "Abandoned Colonies; Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Beach Deposit; Geochronology; Glaciers/ice Sheet; Glaciers/Ice Sheet; Glaciology; Holocene; Penguin; Radiocarbon; Radiocarbon Dates; Snow/ice; Snow/Ice; Stranger Point", "people": "Emslie, Steven D.", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Radiocarbon dates from pygoscelid penguin tissues excavated at Stranger Point, King George Island, Antarctic Peninsula", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601212"}, {"dataset_uid": "601210", "doi": "10.15784/601210", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Krill; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Carbon Isotopes; Isotope Data; Krill; Nitrogen Isotopes; Oceans; Southern Ocean; Stable Isotope Analysis", "people": "Polito, Michael", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values of Antarctic Krill from the South Shetland Islands and the northern Antarctic Peninsula 2007 and 2009", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601210"}, {"dataset_uid": "601232", "doi": "10.15784/601232", "keywords": "Amino Acids; Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Isotope Data; Nitrogen Isotopes; Oceans; Penguin; Southern Ocean; Stable Isotope Analysis", "people": "Polito, Michael; McMahon, Kelton", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Amino acid nitrogen isotope values of penguins from the Antarctic Peninsula region 1930s to 2010s", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601232"}, {"dataset_uid": "601374", "doi": "10.15784/601374", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Antarctica; Cape Irizar; Drygalski Ice Tongue; Ross Sea; Stable Isotopes", "people": "Emslie, Steven D.", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Ancient Adelie penguin colony revealed by snowmelt at Cape Irizar, Ross Sea, Antarctica", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601374"}, {"dataset_uid": "601382", "doi": "10.15784/601382", "keywords": "25 De Mayo/King George Island; Antarctica; Biota; Delta 13C; Delta 15N; Dietary Shifts; Opportunistic Sampling; Penguin; Pygoscelis Penguins; Stranger Point", "people": "Emslie, Steven D.; Ciriani, Yanina", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Stable isotope analysis of multiple tissues from chick carcasses of three pygoscelid penguins in Antarctica", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601382"}, {"dataset_uid": "601913", "doi": "10.15784/601913", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Antarctica; Cryosphere; Foraging; Polynya; Pygoscelis Adeliae; Ross Sea; Stable Isotopes", "people": "Powers, Shannon; Emslie, Steven D.; Reaves, Megan", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Stable isotopes of Adelie Penguin chick bone collagen", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601913"}, {"dataset_uid": "601509", "doi": "10.15784/601509", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Fur Seal; Elemental Concentrations; King Penguin; Population Dynamics; South Atlantic Ocean; South Georgia Island; Stable Isotope Analysis; Sub-Antarctic", "people": "Polito, Michael; McMahon, Kelton; Maiti, Kanchan; Kristan, Allyson", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Radiometric dating, geochemical proxies, and predator biological remains obtained from aquatic sediment cores on South Georgia Island.", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601509"}, {"dataset_uid": "601760", "doi": "10.15784/601760", "keywords": "Adelie Penguin; Amino Acids; Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Ross Sea; Stable Isotope Analysis; Trophic Position", "people": "Patterson, William; Emslie, Steven D.; Michelson, Chantel; Polito, Michael; Wonder, Michael; McCarthy, Matthew; McMahon, Kelton", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Amino acid nitrogen isotope values of modern and ancient Ad\u00e9lie penguin eggshells from the Ross Sea and Antarctic Peninsula regions", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601760"}, {"dataset_uid": "200181", "doi": "10.6084/m9.figshare.c.4475300.v1", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "Figshare", "science_program": null, "title": "SNP data from \"Receding ice drove parallel expansions in Southern Ocean penguins\".", "url": "https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.4475300.v1"}, {"dataset_uid": "601263", "doi": "10.15784/601263", "keywords": "Abandoned Colonies; Antarctica; Holocene; Penguin; Ross Sea; Stable Isotope Analysis", "people": "Patterson, William; Emslie, Steven D.; Kristan, Allyson", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Radioisotope dates and carbon (\u03b413C) and nitrogen (\u03b415N) stable isotope values from modern and mummified Ad\u00e9lie Penguin chick carcasses and tissue from the Ross Sea, Antarctica", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601263"}, {"dataset_uid": "601364", "doi": "10.15784/601364", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Arctocephalus Gazella; Carbon; Holocene; Nitrogen; Paleoecology; Penguin; Pygoscelis Spp.; Stable Isotope Analysis; Weddell Sea", "people": "Herman, Rachael; Kalvakaalva, Rohit; Clucas, Gemma; Polito, Michael", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Radiocarbon dating and stable isotope values of penguin and seal tissues recovered from ornithogenic soils on Platter Island, Danger Islands Archipelago, Antarctic Peninsula in December 2015.", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601364"}, {"dataset_uid": "200180", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI BioProject", "science_program": null, "title": "Receding ice drove parallel expansions in Southern Ocean penguin", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/?term=PRJNA589336"}], "date_created": "Thu, 08 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The Antarctic marine ecosystem is highly productive and supports a diverse range of ecologically and commercially important species. A key species in this ecosystem is Antarctic krill, which in addition to being commercially harvested, is the principle prey of a wide range of marine organisms including penguins, seals and whales. The aim of this study is to use penguins and other krill predators as sensitive indicators of past changes in the Antarctic marine food web resulting from climate variability and the historic harvesting of seals and whales by humans. Specifically this study will recover and analyze modern (\u003c20 year old), historic (20-200 year old) and ancient (200-10,000 year old) penguin and other krill predator tissues to track their past diets and population movements relative to shifts in climate and the availability of Antarctic krill. Understanding how krill predators were affected by these factors in the past will allow us to better understand how these predators, the krill they depend on, and the Antarctic marine ecosystem as a whole will respond to current challenges such as global climate change and an expanding commercial fishery for Antarctic krill. The project will further the NSF goals of training new generations of scientists and of making scientific discoveries available to the general public. This project will support the cross-institutional training of undergraduate and graduate students in advanced analytical techniques in the fields of ecology and biogeochemistry. In addition, this project includes educational outreach aimed encouraging participation in science careers by engaging K-12 students in scientific issues related to Antarctica, penguins, marine ecology, biogeochemistry, and global climate change. This research will help place recent ecological changes in the Southern Ocean into a larger historical context by examining decadal and millennial-scale shifts in the diets and population movements of Antarctic krill predators (penguins, seals, and squid) in concert with climate variability and commercial harvesting. This will be achieved by coupling advanced stable and radio isotope techniques, particularly compound-specific stable isotope analysis, with unprecedented access to modern, historical, and well-preserved paleo-archives of Antarctic predator tissues dating throughout the Holocene. This approach will allow the project to empirically test if observed shifts in Antarctic predator bulk tissue stable isotope values over the past millennia were caused by climate-driven shifts at the base of the food web in addition to, or rather than, shifts in predator diets due to a competitive release following the historic harvesting of krill eating whale and seals. In addition, this project will track the large-scale abandonment and reoccupation of penguin colonies around Antarctica in response to changes in climate and sea ice conditions over the past several millennia. These integrated field studies and laboratory analyses will provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms that influenced past shifts in the diets and population movements of charismatic krill predators such as penguins. This will allow for improved projections of the ecosystem consequences of future climate change and anthropogenic harvesting scenarios in the Antarctica that are likely to affect the availability of Antarctic krill.", "east": -40.0, "geometry": "POINT(-120 -69)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "ANIMAL ECOLOGY AND BEHAVIOR; South Shetland Islands; Penguin; Stable Isotopes; Polar; Ross Sea; USA/NSF; Weddell Sea; AMD; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; USAP-DC; Antarctica; PENGUINS; Southern Hemisphere; FIELD INVESTIGATION; Amd/Us; Krill; MACROFOSSILS", "locations": "Southern Hemisphere; Ross Sea; South Shetland Islands; Weddell Sea; Polar; Antarctica", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Polito, Michael; Kelton, McMahon; Patterson, William; McCarthy, Matthew", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "Figshare; NCBI BioProject; USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "Collaborative Research: Investigating Holocene Shifts in the Diets and Paleohistory of Antarctic Krill Predators", "uid": "p0010047", "west": 160.0}, {"awards": "1822289 Vernet, Maria; 1822256 Smith, Craig", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-59.5 -62,-59.05 -62,-58.6 -62,-58.15 -62,-57.7 -62,-57.25 -62,-56.8 -62,-56.35 -62,-55.9 -62,-55.45 -62,-55 -62,-55 -62.27,-55 -62.54,-55 -62.81,-55 -63.08,-55 -63.35,-55 -63.62,-55 -63.89,-55 -64.16,-55 -64.43,-55 -64.7,-55.45 -64.7,-55.9 -64.7,-56.35 -64.7,-56.8 -64.7,-57.25 -64.7,-57.7 -64.7,-58.15 -64.7,-58.6 -64.7,-59.05 -64.7,-59.5 -64.7,-59.5 -64.43,-59.5 -64.16,-59.5 -63.89,-59.5 -63.62,-59.5 -63.35,-59.5 -63.08,-59.5 -62.81,-59.5 -62.54,-59.5 -62.27,-59.5 -62))", "dataset_titles": "CTD stations and logs for Araon 2018 ANA08D expedition to Larson C; Yoyo camera survey transects, King George Island and Bransfield Strait", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601178", "doi": "10.15784/601178", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Chlorophyll; CTD; Glacier; Iceberg; Ice Shelf; Larsen C Ice Shelf; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; Phytoplankton; Sample Location; Sea Ice; Southern Ocean; Station List", "people": "Pan, B. Jack; Vernet, Maria", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "CTD stations and logs for Araon 2018 ANA08D expedition to Larson C", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601178"}, {"dataset_uid": "601199", "doi": "10.15784/601199", "keywords": "Antarctica; Araon; Araon Ana08d; Benthic Images; Benthos; Photo/video; Photo/Video; Southern Ocean; Station List; Yoyo Camera", "people": "Smith, Craig; Ziegler, Amanda", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Yoyo camera survey transects, King George Island and Bransfield Strait", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601199"}], "date_created": "Wed, 15 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Marine ecosystems under large ice shelves are thought to contain sparse, low-diversity plankton and seafloor communities due the low supply of food from productive sunlight waters. Past studies have shown sub-ice shelf ecosystems to change in response to altered oceanographic processes resulting from ice-shelve retreat. However, information on community changes and ecosystem structure under ice shelves are limited because sub-ice-shelf ecosystems have either been sampled many years after ice-shelf breakout, or have been sampled through small boreholes, yielding extremely limited spatial information. The recent breakout of the A-68 iceberg from the Larsen C ice shelf in the western Weddell Sea provides an opportunity to use a ship-based study to evaluate benthic communities and water column characteristics in an area recently vacated by a large overlying ice shelf. The opportunity will allow spatial assessments at the time of transition from an under ice-shelf environment to one initially exposed to conditions more typical of a coastal Antarctic marine setting. This RAPID project will help determine the state of a coastal Antarctic ecosystem newly exposed from ice-shelf cover and will aid in understanding of rates of community change during transition. The project will conduct a 10-day field program, allowing contrasts to be made of phytoplankton and seafloor megafaunal communities in areas recently exposed by ice-shelf loss to areas exposed for many decades. The project will be undertaken in a collaborative manner with the South Korean Antarctic Agency, KOPRI, by participating in a cruise in March/May 2018. Combining new information in the area of Larsen C with existing observations after the Larsen A and B ice shelf breakups further to the north, the project is expected to generate a dataset that can elucidate fundamental processes of planktonic and benthic community development in transition from food-poor to food-rich ecosystems. The project will provide field experience to two graduate students, a post-doctoral associate and an undergraduate student. Material from the project will be incorporated into graduate courses and the project will communicate daily work and unfolding events through social media and blogs while they explore this area of the world that is largely underexplored. This award reflects NSF\u0027s statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation\u0027s intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.", "east": -55.0, "geometry": "POINT(-57.25 -63.35)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Antarctica; R/V NBP; Sea Floor; ANIMALS/INVERTEBRATES; ICEBERGS; USAP-DC", "locations": "Antarctica; Sea Floor", "north": -62.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Vernet, Maria; Smith, Craig", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -64.7, "title": "RAPID: Collaborative Research: Marine Ecosystem Response to the Larsen C Ice-Shelf Breakout: \"Time zero\"", "uid": "p0010029", "west": -59.5}, {"awards": "1543031 Ivany, Linda", "bounds_geometry": null, "dataset_titles": "NetCDF outputs from middle Eocene climate simulation using the GENESIS global circulation model ; Organic carbon isotope data from serially sampled Eocene driftwood from the La Meseta Fm., Seymour ; Oxygen isotope data from serially sampled Eocene bivalves from the La Meseta Fm., Seymour Island, Antarctica ", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601175", "doi": "10.15784/601175 ", "keywords": "Antarctica; Atmosphere; Climate Model; Computer Model; Eocene; Genesis; Global Circulation Model; Modeling; Model Output; Seasonality; Temperature", "people": "Judd, Emily", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "NetCDF outputs from middle Eocene climate simulation using the GENESIS global circulation model ", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601175"}, {"dataset_uid": "601173", "doi": "10.15784/601173 ", "keywords": "Antarctica; Carbon Isotopes; Driftwood; Eocene; Geochemistry; Geochronology; Isotope Data; La Meseta Formation; Mass Spectrometer; Mass Spectrometry; Organic Carbon Isotopes; Seasonality; Seymour Island; Wood", "people": "Judd, Emily", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Organic carbon isotope data from serially sampled Eocene driftwood from the La Meseta Fm., Seymour ", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601173"}, {"dataset_uid": "601174", "doi": "10.15784/601174", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Bivalves; Cucullaea; Eocene; Glaciers/ice Sheet; Glaciers/Ice Sheet; Isotope Data; La Meseta Formation; Mass Spectrometer; Mass Spectrometry; Oxygen Isotope; Paleotemperature; Retrotapes; Seasonality; Seymour Island", "people": "Judd, Emily", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Oxygen isotope data from serially sampled Eocene bivalves from the La Meseta Fm., Seymour Island, Antarctica ", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601174"}], "date_created": "Tue, 23 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "In order to understand what environmental conditions might look like for future generations, we need to turn to archives of past times when the world was indeed warmer, before anyone was around to commit them to collective memory. The geologic record of Earth\u0027s past offers a glimpse of what could be in store for the future. Research by Ivany and her team looks to Antarctica during a time of past global warmth to see how seasonality of temperature and rainfall in coastal settings are likely to change in the future. They will use the chemistry of fossils (a natural archive of these variables) to test a provocative hypothesis about near-monsoonal conditions in the high latitudes when the oceans are warm. If true, we can expect high-latitude shipping lanes to become more hazardous and fragile marine ecosystems adapted to constant cold temperatures to suffer. With growing information about how human activities are likely to affect the planet in the future, we will be able to make more informed decisions about policies today. This research involves an international team of scholars, including several women scientists, training of graduate students, and a public museum exhibit to educate children about how we study Earth\u0027s ancient climate and what we can learn from it. Antarctica is key to an understanding how Earth?s climate system works under conditions of elevated CO2. The poles are the most sensitive regions on the planet to climate change, and the equator-to-pole temperature gradient and the degree to which high-latitude warming is amplified are important components for climate models to capture. Accurate proxy data with good age control are therefore critical for testing numerical models and establishing global patterns. The La Meseta Formation on Seymour Island is the only documented marine section from the globally warm Eocene Epoch exposed in outcrop on the continent; hence its climate record is integral to studies of warming. Early data suggest the potential for strongly seasonal precipitation and runoff in coastal settings. This collaboration among paleontologists, geochemists, and climate modelers will test this using seasonally resolved del-18O data from fossil shallow marine bivalves to track the evolution of seasonality through the section, in combination with independent proxies for the composition of summer precipitation (leaf wax del-D) and local seawater (clumped isotopes). The impact of the anticipated salinity stratification on regional climate will be evaluated in the context of numerical climate model simulations. In addition to providing greater clarity on high-latitude conditions during this time of high CO2, the combination of proxy and model results will provide insights about how Eocene warmth may have been maintained and how subsequent cooling came about. As well, a new approach to the analysis of shell carbonates for 87Sr/86Sr will allow refinements in age control so as to allow correlation of this important section with other regions to clarify global climate gradients. The project outlined here will develop new and detailed paleoclimate records from existing samples using well-tuned as well as newer proxies applied here in novel ways. Seasonal extremes are climate parameters generally inaccessible to most studies but critical to an understanding of climate change; these are possible to resolve in this well-preserved, accretionary-macrofossil-bearing section. This is an integrated study that links marine and terrestrial climate records for a key region of the planet across the most significant climate transition in the Cenozoic.", "east": -56.0, "geometry": "POINT(-56.5 -64.25)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "PALEOCLIMATE RECONSTRUCTIONS; USAP-DC; ISOTOPES; NOT APPLICABLE; MACROFOSSILS; Antarctica", "locations": "Antarctica", "north": -64.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Earth Sciences", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Ivany, Linda; Lu, Zunli; Junium, Christopher; Samson, Scott", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -64.5, "title": "Seasonality, Summer Cooling, and Calibrating the Approach of the Icehouse in Late Eocene Antarctica", "uid": "p0010025", "west": -57.0}, {"awards": "1543412 Reinfelder, John", "bounds_geometry": null, "dataset_titles": "16S rRNA gene libraries of krill gut microbial communities; Microbial gene libraries of krill gut microbial communities", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "200024", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI GenBank", "science_program": null, "title": "Microbial gene libraries of krill gut microbial communities", "url": "https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fbioproject%2F531145\u0026amp;data=02%7C01%7Creinfeld%40envsci.rutgers.edu%7C7e30a0192dc748ab271408d6b9d57d08%7Cb92d2b234d35447093ff69aca6632ffe%7C1%7C0%7C636900723909188941\u0026amp;sdata=G6cNg4bBHzeikrWSCYITcT6XS3NLWwjQ1yNdwtrALPc%3D\u0026amp;reserved=0"}, {"dataset_uid": "601171", "doi": "10.15784/601171", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Krill; LTER Palmer Station; Microbiome; Oceans; Southern Ocean", "people": "Reinfelder, John", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LTER", "title": "16S rRNA gene libraries of krill gut microbial communities", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601171"}], "date_created": "Sun, 31 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Marine food webs can concentrate monomethylmercury (MMHg), a neurotoxin in mammals, in upper trophic level consumers. Despite their remoteness, coastal Antarctic marine ecosystems accumulate and biomagnify MMHg to levels observed at lower latitudes and in the Arctic. Marine sediments and other anoxic habitats in the oceans are typical areas where methylation of mercury occurs and these are likely places where MMHg is being produced. Krill, and more specifically their digestive tracts, may be a previously unaccounted for site where the production of MMHg may be occurring in the Antarctic. If monomethylmercury production is occurring in krill, current views regarding bioaccumulation in the food web and processes leading to the production and accumulation of mercury in the Antarctic Ocean could be better informed, if not transformed. This project will conduct a preliminary assessment of the krill gut microbiomes, the microbiome\u0027s genomic content and potential for production of monomethyl mercury by detecting the genes involved in mercury transformations. By analyzing the krill gut microbiome, the project will provide insights regarding animal-microbe interactions and their potential role in globally important biogeochemical cycles. This project will conduct a preliminary assessment of the krill gut microbiomes, the microbiomes genomic content and potential for production of monomethylmercury. The diversity and metabolic profiles of microorganisms in krill digestive tracts will be evaluated using massively parallel Illumina DNA sequencing technology to produce 16S rRNA gene libraries and assembled whole metagenomes. The project will also quantify the abundance and expression of Hg methylation genes, hgcAB, and identify their taxonomic affiliations in the microbiome communities. Environmental metagenomes, 16S rRNA gene inventories produced from this project will provide the polar science community with valuable databases and experimental tools with which to examine coastal Antarctic microbial ecology and biogeochemistry. The project will seek to provide a wider window into the diversity of extremophile microbial communities and the identification of potentially unique and useful bioactive compounds. In addition to public education and outreach. This project will train graduate students and provide educational and outreach opportunities at the participating institutions", "east": -68.2816, "geometry": "POINT(-69.09295 -66.8017)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "USAP-DC; Antarctica; NOT APPLICABLE; BACTERIA/ARCHAEA", "locations": "Antarctica", "north": -65.8708, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Schaefer, Jeffra; Reinfelder, John; Barkar, T.", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "repo": "NCBI GenBank", "repositories": "NCBI GenBank; USAP-DC", "science_programs": "LTER", "south": -67.7326, "title": "Methylmercury in Antarctic Krill Microbiomes", "uid": "p0010023", "west": -69.9043}, {"awards": "1750630 Smith, Craig", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-64 -66,-63.3 -66,-62.6 -66,-61.9 -66,-61.2 -66,-60.5 -66,-59.8 -66,-59.1 -66,-58.4 -66,-57.7 -66,-57 -66,-57 -66.3,-57 -66.6,-57 -66.9,-57 -67.2,-57 -67.5,-57 -67.8,-57 -68.1,-57 -68.4,-57 -68.7,-57 -69,-57.7 -69,-58.4 -69,-59.1 -69,-59.8 -69,-60.5 -69,-61.2 -69,-61.9 -69,-62.6 -69,-63.3 -69,-64 -69,-64 -68.7,-64 -68.4,-64 -68.1,-64 -67.8,-64 -67.5,-64 -67.2,-64 -66.9,-64 -66.6,-64 -66.3,-64 -66))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Fri, 15 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Worldwide publicity surrounding the calving of an iceberg the size of Delaware in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf on the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula presents a unique and time-sensitive opportunity for research and education on polar ecosystems in a changing climate. The goal of this project was to convene a workshop, drawing from the large fund of intellectual capital in the US and international Antarctic research communities. The two-day workshop was designed to bring scientists with expertise in Antarctic biological, ecological, and ecosystem sciences to Florida State University to share knowledge, identify important research knowledge gaps, and outline strategic plans for research. \r\n\r\nMajor outcomes from the project were as follows. The international workshop to share and review knowledge concerning the response of Antarctic ecosystems to ice-shelf collapse was held at the Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory (FSUCML) on 18-19 November 2017. Thirty-eight U.S. and international scientists attended the workshop, providing expertise in biological, ecological, geological, biogeographical, and glaciological sciences. Twenty-six additional scientists were either not able to attend or were declined because of having reached maximum capacity of the venue or for not responding to our invitation before the registration deadline.\r\n\r\nThe latest results of ice-shelf research were presented, providing an overview of the current scientific knowledge and understanding of the biological, ecological,\r\ngeological and cryospheric processes associated with ice-shelf collapse and its\r\necosystem-level consequences. In addition, several presentations focused on future plans to investigate the impacts of the recent Larsen C collapse. The following presentations were given at the meeting:\r\n\r\n1) Cryospheric dynamics and ice-shelf collapse \u2013 past and future (M. Truffer,\r\nUniversity of Alaska, Fairbanks)\r\n2) The geological history and geological impacts of ice-shelf collapse on the Antarctic Peninsula (Scottt Ishman, Amy Leventer)\r\n3) Pelagic ecosystem responses to ice-shelf collapse (Mattias Cape, Amy Leventer)\r\n4) Benthic ecosystem response to ice-shelf collapse (Craig Smith, Pavica Sr\u0161en, Ann Vanreusel)\r\n5) Larsen C and biotic homogenization of the benthos (Richard Aronson, James\r\nMcClintock, Kathryn Smith, Brittany Steffel)\r\n6) British Antarctic Survey: plans for Larsen C investigations early 2018 and in the\r\nfuture (Huw Griffiths)\r\n7) Feedback on the workshop \u201cClimate change impacts on marine ecosystems:\r\nimplications for management of living resources and conservation\u201d held 19-22\r\nSeptember 2017, Cambridge, UK (Alex Rogers)\r\n8) Past research activities and plans for Larsen field work by the Alfred Wegener\r\nInstitute, Germany (Charlotte Havermans, Dieter Piepenburg.\r\n\r\nOne of the salient points emerging from the presentations and ensuing discussions was that, given our poor abilities to predict ecological outcomes of ice-shelf collapses, major cross-disciplinary efforts are needed on a variety of spatial and temporal scales to achieve a broader, predictive understanding of ecosystem\r\nconsequences of climatic warming and ice-shelf failure. As part of the workshop, the FSUCML Polar Academy Team\u2014Dr. Emily Dolan, Dr. Heidi Geisz, Barbara Shoplock, and Dr. Jeroen Ingels\u2014initiated AntICE: \"Antarctic Influences of Climate Change on Ecosystems\" (AntICE). They reached out to various groups of school children in the local area (and continue to do so). The AntICE Team have been interacting with these children at Wakulla High School and Wakulla Elementary in Crawfordville; children from the Cornerstone Learning Community, Maclay Middle School, Gilchrist Elementary, and the School of Arts and Sciences in Tallahassee; and the Tallahassee-area homeschooling community to educate them about Antarctic ecosystems and ongoing climate change. The underlying idea was to\r\nmake the children aware of climatic changes in the Antarctic and their effect on\r\necosystems so they, in turn, can spread this knowledge to their communities, family\r\nand friends \u2013 acting as \u2018Polar Ambassadors\u2019. We collaborated with the Polar-ICE\r\nproject, an NSF-funded educational project that established the Polar Literacy\r\nInitiative. This program developed the Polar Literacy Principles, which outline\r\nessential concepts to improve public understanding of Antarctic and Arctic\r\necosystems. In the Polar Academy work, we used the Polar Literacy principles, the\r\nPolar Academy Team\u2019s own Antarctic scientific efforts, and the experience of the FSU outreach and education program to engage with the children. We focused on the importance of Antarctic organisms and ecosystems, the uniqueness of its biota and the significance of its food webs, as well as how all these are changing and will\r\nchange further with climate change. Using general presentations, case studies,\r\nscientific methodology, individual experiences, interactive discussions and Q\u0026A\r\nsessions, the children were guided through the many issues Antarctic ecosystems\r\nare facing. Over 300 \u0027Polar ambassadors\u0027 attended the interactive lectures and\r\nafterwards took their creativity to high latitudes by creating welcome letters, displays, dioramas, sculptures, videos and online media to present at the scientific workshop. Over 50 projects were created by the children (Please see supporting files for images). We were also joined by a photographer, Ryan David Reines, to document the event. More information, media and links to online outreach products are available at https://marinelab.fsu.edu/labs/ingels/outreach/polar-academy/", "east": -57.0, "geometry": "POINT(-60.5 -67.5)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "GLACIERS/ICE SHEETS; USAP-DC; ECOLOGICAL DYNAMICS; NOT APPLICABLE; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; Weddell Sea", "locations": "Weddell Sea", "north": -66.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Smith, Craig", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -69.0, "title": "Collaborative Research: RAPID/Workshop- Antarctic Ecosystem Research following Ice Shelf Collapse and Iceberg Calving Events", "uid": "p0010012", "west": -64.0}, {"awards": "1443680 Smith, Craig; 1443733 Winsor, Peter; 1443705 Vernet, Maria", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-66 -64,-65.6 -64,-65.2 -64,-64.8 -64,-64.4 -64,-64 -64,-63.6 -64,-63.2 -64,-62.8 -64,-62.4 -64,-62 -64,-62 -64.1,-62 -64.2,-62 -64.3,-62 -64.4,-62 -64.5,-62 -64.6,-62 -64.7,-62 -64.8,-62 -64.9,-62 -65,-62.4 -65,-62.8 -65,-63.2 -65,-63.6 -65,-64 -65,-64.4 -65,-64.8 -65,-65.2 -65,-65.6 -65,-66 -65,-66 -64.9,-66 -64.8,-66 -64.7,-66 -64.6,-66 -64.5,-66 -64.4,-66 -64.3,-66 -64.2,-66 -64.1,-66 -64))", "dataset_titles": "Andvord Bay Glacier Timelapse; Andvord Bay sediment core data collected during the FjordEco project (LMG1510 and NBP1603); Expedition Data; Expedition data of LMG1702; FjordEco Phytoplankton Ecology Dataset in Andvord Bay ; Fjord-Eco Sediment OrgC OrgN Data - Craig Smith; LMG1510 Expedition data; NBP1603 Expedition data; Sediment macrofaunal abundance and family richness from inner Andvord Bay to the open continental shelf", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "200040", "doi": "10.7284/907085", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "LMG1510 Expedition data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1510"}, {"dataset_uid": "601158", "doi": "10.15784/601158", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Ecology; Fjord; Phytoplankton", "people": "Forsch, Kiefer; Vernet, Maria; Manck, Lauren; Pan, B. Jack", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "FjordEco", "title": "FjordEco Phytoplankton Ecology Dataset in Andvord Bay ", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601158"}, {"dataset_uid": "601111", "doi": "10.15784/601111", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Glaciers/ice Sheet; Glaciers/Ice Sheet; Iceberg; Photo; Photo/video; Photo/Video", "people": "Truffer, Martin; Winsor, Peter", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "FjordEco", "title": "Andvord Bay Glacier Timelapse", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601111"}, {"dataset_uid": "002733", "doi": null, "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of LMG1702", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1702"}, {"dataset_uid": "200039", "doi": "10.7284/907205", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "NBP1603 Expedition data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1603"}, {"dataset_uid": "601236", "doi": "10.15784/601236", "keywords": "Abundance; Andvord Bay; Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Fjord; LMG1510; Marine Sediments; Oceans; Polychaete; Polychaete Family Richness; R/v Laurence M. Gould; Sediment Core Data; Sediment Macrofauna", "people": "Smith, Craig", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "FjordEco", "title": "Sediment macrofaunal abundance and family richness from inner Andvord Bay to the open continental shelf", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601236"}, {"dataset_uid": "000402", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1702"}, {"dataset_uid": "601193", "doi": "10.15784/601193", "keywords": "Antarctica; Geochronology; Grain Size; LMG1510; NBP1603; Sediment; Sediment Core Data", "people": "Nittrouer, Charles; Eidam, Emily; Homolka, Khadijah; Smith, Craig", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Andvord Bay sediment core data collected during the FjordEco project (LMG1510 and NBP1603)", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601193"}, {"dataset_uid": "001366", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1702"}, {"dataset_uid": "601157", "doi": "10.15784/601157", "keywords": "Antarctica; Glaciers/ice Sheet; Glaciers/Ice Sheet; Glaciology; Snow/ice; Snow/Ice", "people": "Smith, Craig", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "FjordEco", "title": "Fjord-Eco Sediment OrgC OrgN Data - Craig Smith", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601157"}], "date_created": "Wed, 13 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Marine communities along the western Antarctic Peninsula are highly productive ecosystems which support a diverse assemblage of charismatic animals such as penguins, seals, and whales as well as commercial fisheries such as that on Antarctic krill. Fjords (long, narrow, deep inlets of the sea between high cliffs) along the central coast of the Peninsula appear to be intense, potentially climate sensitive, hotspots of biological production and biodiversity, yet the structure and dynamics of these fjord ecosystems are very poorly understood. Because of this intense biological activity and the charismatic fauna it supports, these fjords are also major destinations for a large Antarctic tourism industry. This project is an integrated field and modeling program to evaluate physical oceanographic processes, glacial inputs, water column community dynamics, and seafloor bottom community structure and function in these important yet little understood fjord systems. These Antarctic fjords have characteristics that are substantially different from well-studied Arctic fjords, likely yielding much different responses to climate warming. This project will provide major new insights into the dynamics and climate sensitivity of Antarctic fjord ecosystems, highlighting contrasts with Arctic sub-polar fjords, and potentially transforming our understanding of the ecological role of fjords in the rapidly warming west Antarctic coastal marine landscape. The project will also further the NSF goal of training new generations of scientists, providing scientific training for undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students. This includes the unique educational opportunity for undergraduates to participate in research cruises in Antarctica and the development of a novel summer graduate course on fjord ecosystems. Internet based outreach activities will be enhanced and extended by the participation of a professional photographer who will produce magazine articles, websites, radio broadcasts, and other forms of public outreach on the fascinating Antarctic ecosystem. This project will involve a 15-month field program to test mechanistic hypotheses concerning oceanographic and glaciological forcing, and phytoplankton and benthic community response in the Antarctic fjords. Those efforts will be followed by a coupled physical/biological modeling effort to evaluate the drivers of biogeochemical cycles in the fjords and to explore their potential sensitivity to enhanced meltwater and sediment inputs. Fieldwork over two oceanographic cruises will utilize moorings, weather stations, and glacial, sea-ice and seafloor time-lapse cameras to obtain an integrated view of fjord ecosystem processes. The field team will also make multiple shipboard measurements and will use towed and autonomous underwater vehicles to intensively evaluate fjord ecosystem structure and function during spring/summer and autumn seasons. These integrated field and modeling studies are expected to elucidate fundamental properties of water column and sea bottom ecosystem structure and function in the fjords, and to identify key physical-chemical-glaciological forcing in these rapidly warming ecosystems.", "east": -62.0, "geometry": "POINT(-64 -64.5)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e CTD; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e CHEMICAL METERS/ANALYZERS \u003e FLUOROMETERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e RECORDERS/LOGGERS \u003e AWS; EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e PASSIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e POSITIONING/NAVIGATION \u003e GPS \u003e GPS; EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e ACTIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e ACOUSTIC SOUNDERS \u003e ECHO SOUNDERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e THERMOSALINOGRAPHS", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "OCEAN CURRENTS; Bellingshausen Sea; LMG1702; COMMUNITY DYNAMICS; FJORDS; R/V LMG; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; USAP-DC; ECOSYSTEM FUNCTIONS; ANIMALS/INVERTEBRATES; SEDIMENTATION; NOT APPLICABLE; BENTHIC", "locations": "Bellingshausen Sea", "north": -64.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Winsor, Peter; Truffer, Martin; Smith, Craig; Powell, Brian; Merrifield, Mark; Vernet, Maria; Kohut, Josh", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE; WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V LMG", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "R2R; USAP-DC", "science_programs": "FjordEco", "south": -65.0, "title": "Collaborative Research: Fjord Ecosystem Structure and Function on the West Antarctic Peninsula - Hotspots of Productivity and Biodiversity? (FjordEco)", "uid": "p0010010", "west": -66.0}, {"awards": "1341440 Jin, Meibing; 1341558 Ji, Rubao; 1341547 Stroeve, Julienne", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60))", "dataset_titles": "Antarctic MIZ, Pack Ice and Polynya Maps from Passive Microwave Satellite Data; Ice-ocean-ecosystem model output; Sea ice chlorophyll concentrations in Antarctic coastal polynyas and seasonal ice zones", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601136", "doi": "10.15784/601136", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Model Data; Oceans; Southern Ocean", "people": "Jin, Meibing", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Ice-ocean-ecosystem model output", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601136"}, {"dataset_uid": "601219", "doi": "10.15784/601219", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Chlorophyll; Chlorophyll Concentration; Oceans; Polynya; Sea Ice Concentration; Seasonal Ice Zone; Southern Ocean", "people": "Ji, Rubao", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Sea ice chlorophyll concentrations in Antarctic coastal polynyas and seasonal ice zones", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601219"}, {"dataset_uid": "601115", "doi": "10.15784/601115", "keywords": "Antarctica; Pack Ice; Polynya; Sea Ice; Southern Ocean", "people": "Stroeve, Julienne", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Antarctic MIZ, Pack Ice and Polynya Maps from Passive Microwave Satellite Data", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601115"}], "date_created": "Tue, 20 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The aim of study is to understand how climate-related changes in snow and ice affect predator populations in the Antarctic, using the Ad\u00e9lie penguin as a focal species due to its long history as a Southern Ocean \u0027sentinel\u0027 species and the number of long-term research programs monitoring its abundance, distribution, and breeding biology. Understanding the environmental factors that control predator population dynamics is critically important for projecting the state of populations under future climate change scenarios, and for designing better conservation strategies for the Antarctic ecosystem. For the first time, datasets from a network of observational sites for the Ad\u00e9lie penguin across the entire Antarctic will be combined and analyzed, with a focus on linkages among the ice environment, primary production, and the population responses of Ad\u00e9lie penguins. The project will also further the NSF goals of making scientific discoveries available to the general public and of training new generations of scientists. The results of this project can be used to illustrate intuitively to the general public the complex interactions between ice, ocean, pelagic food web and top predators. This project also offers an excellent platform to demonstrate the process of climate-change science - how scientists simulate climate change scenarios and interpret model results. This project supports the training of undergraduate and graduate students in the fields of polar oceanography, plankton and seabird ecology, coupled physical-biological modeling and mathematical ecology. The results will be broadly disseminated to the general oceanographic research community through scientific workshops, conferences and peer-reviewed journal articles, and to undergraduate and graduate education communities, K-12 schools and organizations, and the interested public through web-based servers using existing infrastructure at the investigators\u0027 institutions. The key question to be addressed in this project is how climate impacts the timing of periodic biological events (phenology) and how interannual variation in this periodic forcing influences the abundance of penguins in the Antarctic. The focus will be on the timing of ice algae and phytoplankton blooms because the high seasonality of sea ice and associated pulsed primary productivity are major drivers of the Antarctic food web. This study will also examine the responses of Ad\u00e9lie penguins to changes in sea ice dynamics and ice algae-phytoplankton phenology. Ad\u00e9lie penguins, like many other Antarctic seabirds, are long-lived, upper trophic-level predators that integrate the effects of sea ice on the food web at regional scales, and thus serve as a reliable biological indicator of environmental changes. The proposed approach is designed to accommodate the limits of measuring and modeling the intermediate trophic levels between phytoplankton and penguins (e.g., zooplankton and fish) at the pan-Antarctic scale, which are important but latent variables in the Southern Ocean food web. Through the use of remotely sensed and in situ data, along with state of the art statistical approaches (e.g. wavelet analysis) and numerical modeling, this highly interdisciplinary study will advance our understanding of polar ecosystems and improve the projection of future climate change scenarios.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "USAP-DC; MARINE ECOSYSTEMS; NOT APPLICABLE; Antarctica", "locations": "Antarctica", "north": -60.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Jin, Meibing; Stroeve, Julienne; Ji, Rubao", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "Collaborative Research: Phytoplankton Phenology in the Antarctic: Drivers, Patterns, and Implications for the Adelie Penguin", "uid": "p0000001", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "2023425 Schofield, Oscar; 1440435 Ducklow, Hugh", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-80 -63,-78.3 -63,-76.6 -63,-74.9 -63,-73.2 -63,-71.5 -63,-69.8 -63,-68.1 -63,-66.4 -63,-64.7 -63,-63 -63,-63 -63.8,-63 -64.6,-63 -65.4,-63 -66.2,-63 -67,-63 -67.8,-63 -68.6,-63 -69.4,-63 -70.2,-63 -71,-64.7 -71,-66.4 -71,-68.1 -71,-69.8 -71,-71.5 -71,-73.2 -71,-74.9 -71,-76.6 -71,-78.3 -71,-80 -71,-80 -70.2,-80 -69.4,-80 -68.6,-80 -67.8,-80 -67,-80 -66.2,-80 -65.4,-80 -64.6,-80 -63.8,-80 -63))", "dataset_titles": "Environmental Data Initiative Repository, Supporting LTER; Expedition Data; Expedition data of LMG1501; Expedition data of LMG1601; Expedition data of LMG1701; Expedition data of LMG1801; Expedition data of LMG1901; Metadata associated with the description of Akarotaxis gouldae n. sp. (Bathydraconidae); UAV images and video of whales in the Antarctic Penisula during LMG1802", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "200125", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of LMG1901", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1901"}, {"dataset_uid": "001367", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1701"}, {"dataset_uid": "601811", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Bellingshausen Sea; Cryosphere; Southern Ocean", "people": "Biesack, Ellen; Corso, Andrew; Desvignes, Thomas; McDowell, Jan; Cheng, Chi-Hing; Steinberg, Deborah; Hilton, Eric", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LTER", "title": "Metadata associated with the description of Akarotaxis gouldae n. sp. (Bathydraconidae)", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601811"}, {"dataset_uid": "601318", "doi": "10.15784/601318", "keywords": "Aerial Imagery; Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Camera; Humpback Whales; LMG1802; LTER; Minke Whales; Oceans; Palmer Station; Photo; Photo/video; Photo/Video; R/v Laurence M. Gould; Species Size; UAV; Video Data; Whales", "people": "Bierlich, KC; Dale, Julian; Friedlaender, Ari; Nowacek, Douglas; Boyer, Keyvi", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LTER", "title": "UAV images and video of whales in the Antarctic Penisula during LMG1802", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601318"}, {"dataset_uid": "002729", "doi": null, "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of LMG1701", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1701"}, {"dataset_uid": "200124", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of LMG1801", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1801"}, {"dataset_uid": "200122", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of LMG1501", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1501"}, {"dataset_uid": "200123", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of LMG1601", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/LMG1601"}, {"dataset_uid": "000246", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "EDI", "science_program": null, "title": "Environmental Data Initiative Repository, Supporting LTER", "url": "https://portal.edirepository.org/nis/browseServlet?searchValue=PAL"}], "date_created": "Fri, 11 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The Palmer Antarctica LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) site has been in operation since 1990. The goal of all the LTER sites is to conduct policy-relevant research on ecological questions that require tens of years of data, and cover large geographical areas. For the Palmer Antarctica LTER, the questions are centered around how the marine ecosystem west of the Antarctica peninsula is responding to a climate that is changing as rapidly as any place on the Earth. For example, satellite observations over the past 35 years indicate the average duration of sea ice cover is now ~90 days (3 months!) shorter than it was. The extended period of open water has implications for many aspects of ecosystem research, with the concurrent decrease of Ad\u00e8lie penguins within this region regularly cited as an exemplar of climate change impacts in Antarctica. Cutting edge technologies such as autonomous underwater (and possibly airborne) vehicles, seafloor moorings, and numerical modeling, coupled with annual oceanographic cruises, and weekly environmental sampling, enables the Palmer Antarctica LTER to expand and bridge the time and space scales needed to assess climatic impacts. This award includes for the first time study of the roles of whales as major predators in the seasonal sea ice zone ecosystem. The team will also focus on submarine canyons, special regions of enhanced biological activity, along the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). The current award\u0027s overarching research question is: How do seasonality, interannual variability, and long term trends in sea ice extent and duration influence the structure and dynamics of marine ecosystems and biogeochemical cycling? Specific foci within the broad question include: 1. Long-term change and ecosystem transitions. What is the sensitivity or resilience of the ecosystem to external perturbations as a function of the ecosystem state? 2. Lateral connectivity and vertical stratification. What are the effects of lateral transports of freshwater, heat and nutrients on local ocean stratification and productivity and how do they drive changes in the ecosystem? 3. Top-down controls and shifting baselines. How is the ecosystem responding to the cessation of whaling and subsequent long-term recovery of whale stocks? 4. Foodweb structure and biogeochemical processes. How do temporal and spatial variations in foodweb structure influence carbon and nutrient cycling, export, and storage? The broader impacts of the award leverage local educational partnerships including the Sandwich, MA STEM Academy, the New England Aquarium, and the NSF funded Polar Learning and Responding (PoLAR) Climate Change Education Partnership at Columbia\u0027s Earth Institute to build new synergies between Arctic and Antarctic, marine and terrestrial scientists and students, governments and NGOs. The Palmer Antarctic LTER will also conduct appropriate cross LTER site comparisons, and serve as a leader in information management to enable knowledge-building within and beyond the Antarctic, oceanographic, and LTER communities.", "east": -63.0, "geometry": "POINT(-71.5 -67)", "instruments": "NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e CTD; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e CHEMICAL METERS/ANALYZERS \u003e FLUOROMETERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e RECORDERS/LOGGERS \u003e AWS; EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e PASSIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e POSITIONING/NAVIGATION \u003e GPS \u003e GPS; EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e ACTIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e ACOUSTIC SOUNDERS \u003e ECHO SOUNDERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e THERMOSALINOGRAPHS", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "PELAGIC; USAP-DC; R/V LMG; NOT APPLICABLE; Palmer Station; LMG1701", "locations": "Palmer Station", "north": -63.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Ducklow, Hugh; Martinson, Doug; Schofield, Oscar", "platforms": "OTHER \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE; WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V LMG", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "EDI; R2R; USAP-DC", "science_programs": "LTER", "south": -71.0, "title": "LTER Palmer, Antarctica (PAL): Land-Shelf-Ocean Connectivity, Ecosystem Resilience and Transformation in a Sea-Ice Influenced Pelagic Ecosystem", "uid": "p0000133", "west": -80.0}, {"awards": "0732711 Smith, Craig; 0732655 Mosley-Thompson, Ellen; 0732983 Vernet, Maria; 0732651 Gordon, Arnold; 0732625 Leventer, Amy; 0732602 Truffer, Martin", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-68 -57.8,-66.78 -57.8,-65.56 -57.8,-64.34 -57.8,-63.12 -57.8,-61.9 -57.8,-60.68 -57.8,-59.46 -57.8,-58.24 -57.8,-57.02 -57.8,-55.8 -57.8,-55.8 -58.8,-55.8 -59.8,-55.8 -60.8,-55.8 -61.8,-55.8 -62.8,-55.8 -63.8,-55.8 -64.8,-55.8 -65.8,-55.8 -66.8,-55.8 -67.8,-57.02 -67.8,-58.24 -67.8,-59.46 -67.8,-60.68 -67.8,-61.9 -67.8,-63.12 -67.8,-64.34 -67.8,-65.56 -67.8,-66.78 -67.8,-68 -67.8,-68 -66.8,-68 -65.8,-68 -64.8,-68 -63.8,-68 -62.8,-68 -61.8,-68 -60.8,-68 -59.8,-68 -58.8,-68 -57.8))", "dataset_titles": "Abrupt Environmental Change in the Larsen Ice Shelf System (LARISSA) - Marine Ecosystems; Biology Species Abundance from the Larsen Ice Shelf acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expeditions NBP1001 and NBP1203; Bruce Plateau Accumulation O18 2009-1900; Easten Antarctic Peninsula Surface Sediment Diatom Data; LMG13-11 JKC-1 Paleoceanographic data; Macrofauna Species Abundance Raw Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001; Megafauna Species Abundance Raw Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001; NBP1001 cruise data; NBP1203 cruise data; Processed CTD Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf in Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001; Processed CTD Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf near Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1203; Processed ship-based LADCP Sonar Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf in Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001; Processed ship-based LADCP Sonar Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf near Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1203; Radioisotope data (C-14 and Pb-210) from bulk sediments, Larsen A Ice Shelf; Sediment samples (full data link not provided)", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601345", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; CTD; CTD Data; LARISSA; Larsen Ice Shelf; NBP1001; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Salinity; Temperature", "people": "Gordon, Arnold; Huber, Bruce", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Processed CTD Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf in Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601345"}, {"dataset_uid": "601347", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Current Measurements; LADCP; LARISSA; Larsen Ice Shelf; NBP1203; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer", "people": "Gordon, Arnold; Huber, Bruce", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Processed ship-based LADCP Sonar Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf near Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1203", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601347"}, {"dataset_uid": "000142", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "NBP1001 cruise data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1001"}, {"dataset_uid": "601348", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; CTD; CTD Data; LARISSA; Larsen Ice Shelf; NBP1203; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Salinity; Temperature", "people": "Gordon, Arnold; Huber, Bruce", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Processed CTD Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf near Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1203", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601348"}, {"dataset_uid": "000143", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "NBP1203 cruise data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1203"}, {"dataset_uid": "000145", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "AMGRF", "science_program": null, "title": "Sediment samples (full data link not provided)", "url": "http://arf.fsu.edu/"}, {"dataset_uid": "601336", "doi": "10.15784/601336", "keywords": "Antarctica; Carbon-14; Larsen Ice Shelf; Lead-210; Marine Sediments; Radioisotope Analysis", "people": "Taylor, Richard; DeMaster, David", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Radioisotope data (C-14 and Pb-210) from bulk sediments, Larsen A Ice Shelf", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601336"}, {"dataset_uid": "601485", "doi": "10.15784/601485", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Delta 13C; Delta 18O; Paleoceanography; Temperature", "people": "Shevenell, Amelia", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "LMG13-11 JKC-1 Paleoceanographic data", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601485"}, {"dataset_uid": "600073", "doi": "10.15784/600073", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Araon1304; Biota; LARISSA; Larsen B Ice Shelf; NBP1001; NBP1203; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; Southern Ocean; Weddell Sea", "people": "Vernet, Maria", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Abrupt Environmental Change in the Larsen Ice Shelf System (LARISSA) - Marine Ecosystems", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/600073"}, {"dataset_uid": "000226", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "MGDS", "science_program": null, "title": "Biology Species Abundance from the Larsen Ice Shelf acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expeditions NBP1001 and NBP1203", "url": "https://doi.org/10.1594/ieda/320821"}, {"dataset_uid": "601306", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Box Corer; LARISSA; Larsen Ice Shelf; Macrofauna; NBP1001; Oceans; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Seafloor Sampling; Species Abundance", "people": "Smith, Craig", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Macrofauna Species Abundance Raw Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601306"}, {"dataset_uid": "601305", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; Box Corer; LARISSA; Larsen Ice Shelf; Macrofauna; Megafauna; NBP1001; Oceans; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Seafloor Sampling; Species Abundance", "people": "Smith, Craig", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Megafauna Species Abundance Raw Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601305"}, {"dataset_uid": "601211", "doi": "10.15784/601211", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Benthos; Biota; Diatom; Geology/Geophysics - Other; LMG0502; Marine Geoscience; Marine Sediments; Microscope; NBP0003; NBP0107; NBP0603; NBP1203; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Surface Sediment", "people": "Leventer, Amy", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Easten Antarctic Peninsula Surface Sediment Diatom Data", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601211"}, {"dataset_uid": "600167", "doi": "10.15784/600167", "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Bruce Plateau; Glaciology; Ice Core Records; Isotope; LARISSA; Paleoclimate; Sample/collection Description; Sample/Collection Description; Snow Accumulation", "people": "Mosley-Thompson, Ellen; Thompson, Lonnie G.", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Bruce Plateau Accumulation O18 2009-1900", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/600167"}, {"dataset_uid": "601346", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula; Current Measurements; LADCP; Larsen Ice Shelf; NBP1001; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer", "people": "Huber, Bruce; Gordon, Arnold", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": "LARISSA", "title": "Processed ship-based LADCP Sonar Data from the Larsen Ice Shelf in Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP1001", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601346"}], "date_created": "Thu, 01 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Like no other region on Earth, the northern Antarctic Peninsula represents a spectacular natural laboratory of climate change and provides the opportunity to study the record of past climate and ecological shifts alongside the present-day changes in one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth. This award supports the cryospheric and oceano-graphic components of an integrated multi-disciplinary program to address these rapid and fundamental changes now taking place in Antarctic Peninsula (AP). By making use of a marine research platform (the RV NB Palmer and on-board helicopters) and additional logistical support from the Argentine Antarctic program, the project will bring glaciologists, oceanographers, marine geologists and biologists together, working collaboratively to address fundamentally interdisciplinary questions regarding climate change. The project will include gathering a new, high-resolution paleoclimate record from the Bruce Plateau of Graham Land, and using it to compare Holocene- and possibly glacial-epoch climate to the modern period; investigating the stability of the remaining Larsen Ice Shelf and rapid post-breakup glacier response ? in particular, the roles of surface melt and ice-ocean interactions in the speed-up and retreat; observing the contribution of, and response of, oceanographic systems to ice shelf disintegration and ice-glacier interactions. Helicopter support on board will allow access to a wide range of glacial and geological areas of interest adjacent to the Larsen embayment. At these locations, long-term in situ glacial monitoring, isostatic uplift, and ice flow GPS sites will be established, and high-resolution ice core records will be obtained using previously tested lightweight drilling equipment. Long-term monitoring of deep water outflow will, for the first time, be integrated into changes in ice shelf extent and thickness, bottom water formation, and multi-level circulation by linking near-source observations to distal sites of concentrated outflow. The broader impacts of this international, multidisciplinary effort are that it will significantly advance our understanding of linkages amongst the earth\u0027s systems in the Polar Regions, and are proposed with international participation (UK, Spain, Belgium, Germany and Argentina) and interdisciplinary engagement in the true spirit of the International Polar Year (IPY). It will also provide a means of engaging and educating the public in virtually all aspects of polar science and the effects of ongoing climate change. The research team has a long record of involving undergraduates in research, educating high-performing graduate students, and providing innovative and engaging outreach products to the K-12 education and public media forums. Moreover, forging the new links both in science and international Antarctic programs will provide a continuing legacy, beyond IPY, of improved understanding and cooperation in Antarctica.", "east": -55.8, "geometry": "POINT(-61.9 -62.8)", "instruments": "EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e PASSIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e POSITIONING/NAVIGATION \u003e GPS \u003e GPS; NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE \u003e NOT APPLICABLE; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e CORERS \u003e BOX CORE; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e CORERS \u003e CORING DEVICES; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e CORERS \u003e ICE AUGERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e CORERS \u003e SNOW DENSITY CUTTER", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Paleoclimate; Megafauna; USAP-DC; AMD; Amd/Us; Antarctica; Climate Change; LABORATORY; Climate Variability; Multi-Disciplinary; Cryosphere; NBP1001; FIELD SURVEYS; Not provided; Antarctic Peninsula; R/V NBP; FIELD INVESTIGATION; USA/NSF; Ice Core; Holocene", "locations": "Antarctica; Antarctic Peninsula", "north": -57.8, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Integrated System Science; Antarctic Integrated System Science", "paleo_time": "PHANEROZOIC \u003e CENOZOIC \u003e QUATERNARY \u003e HOLOCENE", "persons": "Truffer, Martin; Gordon, Arnold; Huber, Bruce; Mosley-Thompson, Ellen; Leventer, Amy; Vernet, Maria; Smith, Craig; Thompson, Lonnie G.", "platforms": "LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD INVESTIGATION; LAND-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e FIELD SITES \u003e FIELD SURVEYS; Not provided; OTHER \u003e PHYSICAL MODELS \u003e LABORATORY; WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "AMGRF; MGDS; R2R; USAP-DC", "science_programs": "LARISSA", "south": -67.8, "title": "Collaborative Research in IPY: Abrupt Environmental Change in the Larsen Ice Shelf System, a Multidisciplinary Approach -- Cryosphere and Oceans", "uid": "p0000101", "west": -68.0}, {"awards": "1543245 Rynearson, Tatiana", "bounds_geometry": null, "dataset_titles": "Expedition Data; Expedition data of NBP1701; NCBI Popset of 43 Southern Ocean diatom isolates, including accessions ON678208.1 - ON678250.1; Specific growth rate measurements for 43 Southern Ocean diatoms", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601586", "doi": "10.15784/601586", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; NBP1701; Phytoplankton; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Specific Growth Rate; Thermal Optimum Temperature", "people": "Bishop, Ian", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Specific growth rate measurements for 43 Southern Ocean diatoms", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601586"}, {"dataset_uid": "002661", "doi": null, "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition data of NBP1701", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1701"}, {"dataset_uid": "200328", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI Popset of 43 Southern Ocean diatom isolates, including accessions ON678208.1 - ON678250.1", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/popset/?term=2248543458"}, {"dataset_uid": "001369", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP1701"}], "date_created": "Fri, 29 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The research will examine how diatoms (an important group of plankton in the Southern Ocean) adapt to environmental change. Diatoms will be sampled from different regions of the Southern Ocean, including the Drake Passage, the Pacific Sector of the Southern Ocean and the Ross Sea and examined to determine the range of genetic variation among diatoms in these regions. Experiments on a range of diatoms will be conducted in home laboratories and will be aimed at measuring shifts in physiological capacities over many generations in response to directional changes in the environment (temperature and pH). The information on the genetic diversity of field populations combined with information on potential rates of adaptability and genome changes will provide insight into ways in which polar marine diatoms populations may respond to environmental changes that may occur in surface oceans in the future or may have occurred during past climate conditions. Such information allows better modeling of biogeochemical cycles in the ocean as well as improves our abilities to interpret records of past ocean conditions. The project will support a doctoral student and a postdoctoral researcher as well as several undergraduate students. These scientists will learn the fundamentals of experimental evolution, a skill set that is being sought in the fields of biology and oceanography. The project also includes a collaboration with the Metcalf Institute for Marine and Environmental Reporting that will design and facilitate a session focused on current research related to evolution and climate change to be held at the annual conference of the National Association of Science Writers (NASW). Both physiological and genetic variation are key parameters for understanding evolutionary processes in phytoplankton but they are essentially unknown for Southern Ocean diatoms. The extent to which these two factors determine plasticity and adaptability in field populations and the interaction between them will influence how and whether cold-adapted diatoms can respond to changing environments. This project includes a combination of field work to identify genetic diversity within diatoms using molecular approaches and experiments in the lab to assess the range of physiological variation in contemporary populations of diatoms and evolution experiments in the lab to assess how the combination of genetic diversity and physiological variation influence the evolutionary potential of diatoms under a changing environment. This research will uncover general relationships between physiological variation, genetic diversity, and evolutionary potential that may apply across microbial taxa and geographical regions, substantially improving efforts to predict shifts in marine ecosystems. Results from this study can be integrated into developing models that incorporate evolution to predict ecosystem changes under future climate change scenarios.", "east": null, "geometry": null, "instruments": "IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e CTD; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e CHEMICAL METERS/ANALYZERS \u003e FLUOROMETERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e MAGNETIC/MOTION SENSORS \u003e GRAVIMETERS \u003e GRAVIMETERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e RECORDERS/LOGGERS \u003e AWS; EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e PASSIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e POSITIONING/NAVIGATION \u003e GPS \u003e GPS; EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e ACTIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e ACOUSTIC SOUNDERS \u003e ECHO SOUNDERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e ACOUSTIC SOUNDERS \u003e MBES; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e THERMOSALINOGRAPHS", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "USAP-DC; NBP1701; R/V NBP; AMD; USA/NSF; Amd/Us; DIATOMS", "locations": null, "north": null, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Rynearson, Tatiana; Bishop, Ian", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "NCBI; R2R; USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": null, "title": "NSFGEO-NERC: Evolutionary Response of Southern Ocean Diatoms to Environmental Change", "uid": "p0000850", "west": null}, {"awards": "1103428 Thurber, Andrew", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((165 -77,165.5 -77,166 -77,166.5 -77,167 -77,167.5 -77,168 -77,168.5 -77,169 -77,169.5 -77,170 -77,170 -77.1,170 -77.2,170 -77.3,170 -77.4,170 -77.5,170 -77.6,170 -77.7,170 -77.8,170 -77.9,170 -78,169.5 -78,169 -78,168.5 -78,168 -78,167.5 -78,167 -78,166.5 -78,166 -78,165.5 -78,165 -78,165 -77.9,165 -77.8,165 -77.7,165 -77.6,165 -77.5,165 -77.4,165 -77.3,165 -77.2,165 -77.1,165 -77))", "dataset_titles": "McMurdo Spiophanes beds 16s V4 region community composition from sediment cores at McMurdo Station, Antarctia on Sept 9th, 2012 (McMurdo Benthos project); Stable isotopic composition of McMurdo Benthos", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "000202", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "McMurdo Spiophanes beds 16s V4 region community composition from sediment cores at McMurdo Station, Antarctia on Sept 9th, 2012 (McMurdo Benthos project)", "url": "https://www.bco-dmo.org/dataset/716443"}, {"dataset_uid": "000201", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "Stable isotopic composition of McMurdo Benthos", "url": "https://www.bco-dmo.org/dataset/716462"}], "date_created": "Tue, 10 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The biota of the world\u0027s seafloor is fueled by bursts of seasonal primary production. For food-limited sediment communities to persist, a balance must exist between metazoan consumption of and competition with bacteria, a balance which likely changes through the seasons. Polar marine ecosystems are ideal places to study such complex interactions due to stark seasonal shifts between heterotrophic and autotrophic communities, and temperatures that may limit microbial processing of organic matter. The research will test the following hypotheses: 1) heterotrophic bacteria compete with macrofauna for food; 2) as phytoplankton populations decline macrofauna increasingly consume microbial biomass to sustain their populations; and 3) in the absence of seasonal photosynthetic inputs, macrofaunal biodiversity will decrease unless supplied with microbially derived nutrition. Observational and empirical studies will test these hypotheses at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, where a high-abundance macro-infaunal community is adapted to this boom-and-bust cycle of productivity. The investigator will mentor undergraduates from a predominantly minority-serving institution, in the fields of invertebrate taxonomy and biogeochemistry. The general public and young scientists will be engaged through lectures at local K-12 venues and launch of an interactive website. The results will better inform scientists and managers about the effects of climate change on polar ecosystems and the mechanisms of changing productivity patterns on global biodiversity.", "east": 170.0, "geometry": "POINT(167.5 -77.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Not provided", "locations": null, "north": -77.0, "nsf_funding_programs": null, "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Thurber, Andrew", "platforms": "Not provided", "repo": "BCO-DMO", "repositories": "BCO-DMO", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "PostDoctoral Research Fellowship", "uid": "p0000416", "west": 165.0}, {"awards": "1142122 Miller, Nathan", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((166.163 -76.665,166.2635 -76.665,166.364 -76.665,166.4645 -76.665,166.565 -76.665,166.6655 -76.665,166.766 -76.665,166.8665 -76.665,166.967 -76.665,167.0675 -76.665,167.168 -76.665,167.168 -76.782,167.168 -76.899,167.168 -77.016,167.168 -77.133,167.168 -77.25,167.168 -77.367,167.168 -77.484,167.168 -77.601,167.168 -77.718,167.168 -77.835,167.0675 -77.835,166.967 -77.835,166.8665 -77.835,166.766 -77.835,166.6655 -77.835,166.565 -77.835,166.4645 -77.835,166.364 -77.835,166.2635 -77.835,166.163 -77.835,166.163 -77.718,166.163 -77.601,166.163 -77.484,166.163 -77.367,166.163 -77.25,166.163 -77.133,166.163 -77.016,166.163 -76.899,166.163 -76.782,166.163 -76.665))", "dataset_titles": "Antarctic emerald rockcod have the capacity to compensate for warming when uncoupled from CO2-acidification; Physiological and biochemical measurements on Antarctic dragonfish (Gymnodraco acuticeps) from McMurdo Sound; Physiological and biochemical measurements on juvenile Antarctic rockcod (Trematomus bernacchii) from McMurdo Sound; Thermal windows and metabolic performance curves in a developing Antarctic fish", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601025", "doi": "10.15784/601025", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Fish; McMurdo Sound; Oceans; Ross Sea; Southern Ocean", "people": "Flynn, Erin; Davis, Brittany; Todgham, Anne; Miller, Nathan", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Physiological and biochemical measurements on juvenile Antarctic rockcod (Trematomus bernacchii) from McMurdo Sound", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601025"}, {"dataset_uid": "601040", "doi": "10.15784/601040", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Fish; McMurdo Sound; Oceans; Ross Sea; Sample/collection Description; Sample/Collection Description; Southern Ocean", "people": "Miller, Nathan; Todgham, Anne", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Thermal windows and metabolic performance curves in a developing Antarctic fish", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601040"}, {"dataset_uid": "601039", "doi": "10.15784/601039", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Chemistry:fluid; Chemistry:Fluid; CTD Data; Fish; McMurdo Sound; Ocean Acidification; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; Ross Sea; Southern Ocean", "people": "Todgham, Anne; Miller, Nathan", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Antarctic emerald rockcod have the capacity to compensate for warming when uncoupled from CO2-acidification", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601039"}, {"dataset_uid": "601026", "doi": "10.15784/601026", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Chemistry:fluid; Chemistry:Fluid; CTD Data; Fish; McMurdo Sound; Ocean Acidification; Oceans; Physical Oceanography; Ross Sea; Southern Ocean", "people": "Davis, Brittany; Flynn, Erin; Todgham, Anne; Miller, Nathan", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Physiological and biochemical measurements on Antarctic dragonfish (Gymnodraco acuticeps) from McMurdo Sound", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601026"}], "date_created": "Tue, 15 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Ocean acidification and increased temperatures are projected to be the primary impacts of global climate change on polar marine ecosystems over the next century. While recent research has focused on the effects of these drivers on calcifying organisms, less is known about how these changes may affect vertebrates. This research will focus on two Antarctic fishes, Trematomus bernacchii and Pagothenia borchgrevinki. Fish eggs and larvae will be collected in McMurdo Sound and reared under different temperature and pH regimes. Modern techniques will be used to examine subsequent changes in physiology, growth, development and gene expression over both short and long timescales. The results will fill a missing gap in our knowledge about the response of non-calcifying organisms to projected changes in pH and temperature. Results will be widely disseminated through publications as well as through presentations at national and international meetings; raw data will also be made available through open-access, web-based databases. This project will support the research and training of three graduate and three undergraduate students. As well, this project will foster the development of two modules on climate change and ocean acidification for an Introduction to Biology course.", "east": 167.168, "geometry": "POINT(166.6655 -77.25)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Not provided", "locations": null, "north": -76.665, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Miller, Nathan; Todgham, Anne", "platforms": "Not provided", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -77.835, "title": "RUI: Synergistic effects of Ocean Acidification and Warming on Larval Development in Antarctic Fishes", "uid": "p0000411", "west": 166.163}, {"awards": "1246202 Hofmann, Gretchen", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((163.317388 -77.3354,163.6520742 -77.3354,163.9867604 -77.3354,164.3214466 -77.3354,164.6561328 -77.3354,164.990819 -77.3354,165.3255052 -77.3354,165.6601914 -77.3354,165.9948776 -77.3354,166.3295638 -77.3354,166.66425 -77.3354,166.66425 -77.386975,166.66425 -77.43855,166.66425 -77.490125,166.66425 -77.5417,166.66425 -77.593275,166.66425 -77.64485,166.66425 -77.696425,166.66425 -77.748,166.66425 -77.799575,166.66425 -77.85115,166.3295638 -77.85115,165.9948776 -77.85115,165.6601914 -77.85115,165.3255052 -77.85115,164.990819 -77.85115,164.6561328 -77.85115,164.3214466 -77.85115,163.9867604 -77.85115,163.6520742 -77.85115,163.317388 -77.85115,163.317388 -77.799575,163.317388 -77.748,163.317388 -77.696425,163.317388 -77.64485,163.317388 -77.593275,163.317388 -77.5417,163.317388 -77.490125,163.317388 -77.43855,163.317388 -77.386975,163.317388 -77.3354))", "dataset_titles": "mRNA sequencing - RNAseq; Nearshore pH, temperature, (salinity, depth) at mooring sites in McMurdo Sound, Antarctica, Overwinter 2011-2016; pH temp sal measurement data", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "601141", "doi": "10.15784/601141", "keywords": "Antarctica; McMurdo Sound; Mcmurdo Station; Mooring; Oceans; Ocean Temperature; PH; Physical Oceanography; Ross Sea; Sea Surface Temperature; Seawater Measurements; Southern Ocean; Temperature", "people": "Hofmann, Gretchen; Hoshijima, Umihiko; Kapsenberg, Lydia", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Nearshore pH, temperature, (salinity, depth) at mooring sites in McMurdo Sound, Antarctica, Overwinter 2011-2016", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601141"}, {"dataset_uid": "000181", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "mRNA sequencing - RNAseq", "url": "http://www.bco-dmo.org/dataset/639502"}, {"dataset_uid": "002576", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "pH temp sal measurement data", "url": "https://www.bco-dmo.org/dataset/639502"}], "date_created": "Tue, 13 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The research supported in this project will examine the effects of environmental change on a key Antarctic marine invertebrate, a pelagic mollusk, the pteropod, Limacina helicina antarctica. There are two main activities in this project: (1) to deploy oceanographic equipment ? in this case, autonomously recording pH sensors called SeaFETs and other devices that record temperature and salinity, and (2) to use these environmental data in the laboratory at McMurdo Station to study the response of the marine invertebrates to future changes in water quality that is expected in the next few decades. Notably, changes in oceanic pH (aka ocean acidification) and ocean warming are projected to be particularly threatening to calcifying marine organisms in cold-water, high latitude seas, making tolerance data on these organisms a critical research need in Antarctic marine ecosystems. These Antarctic shelled-animals are especially vulnerable to dissolution stress from ocean acidification because they currently inhabit seawater that is barely at the saturation level to support biogenic calcification. Indeed, these polar animals are considered to be the \u0027first responders\u0027 to chemical changes in the surface oceans. Thus, this project will lead to information about the adaptive capacity of L. helcina antarctica. From an ecological perspective this is important because this animal is a critical part of the Antarctic food chain in coastal waters and changes in its abundance will impact other species. Finally, the research conducted in this project will serve as a training and educational opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students as well as postdoctoral scholars.", "east": 166.66425, "geometry": "POINT(164.990819 -77.593275)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Not provided", "locations": null, "north": -77.3354, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Hofmann, Gretchen", "platforms": "Not provided", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "BCO-DMO; USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -77.85115, "title": "Ocean Acidification Seascape: Linking Natural Variability and Anthropogenic changes in pH and Temperature to Performance in Calcifying Antarctic Marine Invertebrates", "uid": "p0000390", "west": 163.317388}, {"awards": "1040957 Sarmiento, Jorge; 1040945 Place, Sean; 1447291 Place, Sean", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 90,-144 90,-108 90,-72 90,-36 90,0 90,36 90,72 90,108 90,144 90,180 90,180 72,180 54,180 36,180 18,180 0,180 -18,180 -36,180 -54,180 -72,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -72,-180 -54,-180 -36,-180 -18,-180 0,-180 18,-180 36,-180 54,-180 72,-180 90))", "dataset_titles": "Does the strength of the carbonate pump change with ocean stratification and acidification and how? Project data; NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Pagothenia borchgrevinki; NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Trematomus bernacchii; NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Trematomus newnesi; NCBI links to BioProjects of total RNA isolated from Trematomus bernacchii gill tissues acclimated to elevated temperature and pCO2, July 2015", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "000219", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "Does the strength of the carbonate pump change with ocean stratification and acidification and how? Project data", "url": "http://www.bco-dmo.org/project/521216"}, {"dataset_uid": "000163", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI GenBank", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Trematomus bernacchii", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA289753"}, {"dataset_uid": "000164", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI GenBank", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Pagothenia borchgrevinki", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA294774"}, {"dataset_uid": "000165", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI GenBank", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Trematomus newnesi", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA294787"}, {"dataset_uid": "000166", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "BCO-DMO", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI links to BioProjects of total RNA isolated from Trematomus bernacchii gill tissues acclimated to elevated temperature and pCO2, July 2015", "url": "http://www.bco-dmo.org/dataset/665853"}, {"dataset_uid": "000186", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI GenBank", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Trematomus newnesi", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA294787"}, {"dataset_uid": "000185", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI GenBank", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Pagothenia borchgrevinki", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA294774"}, {"dataset_uid": "000184", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "NCBI GenBank", "science_program": null, "title": "NCBI GenBank RNA sequences, Trematomus bernacchii", "url": "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA289753"}], "date_created": "Mon, 12 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "The proposed research will investigate the interacting and potentially synergistic influence of two oceanographic features - ocean acidification and the projected rise in mean sea surface temperature - on the performance of Notothenioids, the dominant fish of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. Understanding the joint effects of acidification and temperature rise on these fish is a vital component of predicting the resilience of coastal marine ecosystems. Notothenioids have repeatedly displayed a narrow window of physiological tolerances when subjected to abiotic stresses. Given that evolutionary adaptation may have led to finely-tuned traits with narrow physiological limits in these organisms, this system provides a unique opportunity to examine physiological trade-offs associated with acclimation to the multi-stressor environment expected from future atmospheric CO2 projections. Understanding these trade-offs will provide valuable insight into the capacity species have for responses to climate change via phenotypic plasticity. As an extension to functional measurements, this study will use evolutionary approaches to map variation in physiological responses onto the phylogeny of these fishes and the genetic diversity within species. These approaches offer insight into the historical constraints and future potential for evolutionary optimization. The research will significantly expand the genomic resources available to polar researchers and will support the training of graduate students and a post doc at an EPSCoR institution. Research outcomes will be incorporated into classroom curriculum.", "east": 180.0, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Not provided", "locations": null, "north": 90.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Integrated System Science", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Place, Sean; Sarmiento, Jorge; Dudycha, Jeffry; Kwon, Eun-Young", "platforms": "Not provided", "repo": "BCO-DMO", "repositories": "BCO-DMO; NCBI GenBank", "science_programs": null, "south": -90.0, "title": "Ocean Acidification Category 1: Identifying Adaptive Responses of Polar Fishes in a Vulnerable Ecosystem", "uid": "p0000006", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "0944201 Hofmann, Gretchen", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -68,-177 -68,-174 -68,-171 -68,-168 -68,-165 -68,-162 -68,-159 -68,-156 -68,-153 -68,-150 -68,-150 -69,-150 -70,-150 -71,-150 -72,-150 -73,-150 -74,-150 -75,-150 -76,-150 -77,-150 -78,-153 -78,-156 -78,-159 -78,-162 -78,-165 -78,-168 -78,-171 -78,-174 -78,-177 -78,180 -78,178 -78,176 -78,174 -78,172 -78,170 -78,168 -78,166 -78,164 -78,162 -78,160 -78,160 -77,160 -76,160 -75,160 -74,160 -73,160 -72,160 -71,160 -70,160 -69,160 -68,162 -68,164 -68,166 -68,168 -68,170 -68,172 -68,174 -68,176 -68,178 -68,-180 -68))", "dataset_titles": "Effect of Ocean Acidification on Early Life History Stages of the Antarctic Sea Urchins Sterechinus Neumayeri", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "600112", "doi": "10.15784/600112", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Oceans; Southern Ocean", "people": "Hofmann, Gretchen", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Effect of Ocean Acidification on Early Life History Stages of the Antarctic Sea Urchins Sterechinus Neumayeri", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/600112"}], "date_created": "Tue, 23 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Abstract\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003eThe research examine the effects of ocean acidification on embryos and larvae of a contemporary calcifier in the coastal waters of Antarctica, the sea urchin Sterechinus neumayeri. The effect of future ocean acidification is projected to be particularly threatening to calcifying marine organisms in coldwater, high latitude seas, making tolerance data on these organisms a critical research need in Antarctic marine ecosystems. Due to a high magnesium (Mg) content of their calcitic hard parts, echinoderms are especially vulnerable to dissolution stress from ocean acidification because they currently inhabit seawater that is barely at the saturation level to support biogenic calcification. Thus, cold-water, high latitude species with a high Mg-content in their hard parts are considered to be the \u0027first responders\u0027 to chemical changes in the surface oceans. Studies in this proposal will use several metrics to examine the physiological plasticity of contemporary urchin embryos and larvae to CO2-acidified seawater, to mimic the scenarios defined by IPCC models and by analyses of future acidification predicted for the Southern Ocean. The research also will investigats the biological consequences of synergistic interactions of two converging climate change-related stressors - CO2- driven ocean acidification and ocean warming. Specifically the research will (1) assess the effect of CO2-acidified seawater on the development of early embryos and larvae, (2) using morphometrics, examine changes in the larval endoskeleton in response to development under the high-CO2 conditions of ocean acidification, (3) using a DNA microarray, profile changes in gene expression for genes involved in biomineralization and other important physiological processes, and (4) measure costs and physiological consequences of development under conditions of ocean acidification. The proposal will support the training of undergraduates, graduate students and a postdoctoral fellow. The PI also will collaborate with the UC Santa Barbara Gevirtz Graduate School of Education to link the biological effects of ocean acidification to the chemical changes expected for the Southern Ocean using the \u0027Science on a Sphere\u0027 technology. This display will be housed in an education and public outreach center, the Outreach Center for Teaching Ocean Science (OCTOS), a new state-of-the-art facility under construction at UC Santa Barbara.", "east": -150.0, "geometry": "POINT(-175 -73)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "MOORINGS", "locations": null, "north": -68.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Hofmann, Gretchen", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e BUOYS \u003e MOORED \u003e MOORINGS", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "Effect of Ocean Acidification on Early Life History Stages of the Antarctic Sea Urchins Sterechinus Neumayeri", "uid": "p0000352", "west": 160.0}, {"awards": "0838830 Cottrell, Matthew", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-64.079666 -64.77966,-64.07576590000001 -64.77966,-64.0718658 -64.77966,-64.0679657 -64.77966,-64.0640656 -64.77966,-64.06016550000001 -64.77966,-64.0562654 -64.77966,-64.0523653 -64.77966,-64.04846520000001 -64.77966,-64.0445651 -64.77966,-64.040665 -64.77966,-64.040665 -64.78326100000001,-64.040665 -64.786862,-64.040665 -64.790463,-64.040665 -64.794064,-64.040665 -64.797665,-64.040665 -64.801266,-64.040665 -64.804867,-64.040665 -64.808468,-64.040665 -64.812069,-64.040665 -64.81567,-64.0445651 -64.81567,-64.04846520000001 -64.81567,-64.0523653 -64.81567,-64.0562654 -64.81567,-64.06016550000001 -64.81567,-64.0640656 -64.81567,-64.0679657 -64.81567,-64.0718658 -64.81567,-64.07576590000001 -64.81567,-64.079666 -64.81567,-64.079666 -64.812069,-64.079666 -64.808468,-64.079666 -64.804867,-64.079666 -64.801266,-64.079666 -64.797665,-64.079666 -64.794064,-64.079666 -64.790463,-64.079666 -64.786862,-64.079666 -64.78326100000001,-64.079666 -64.77966))", "dataset_titles": "Photoheterotrophic Microbes in the West Antarctic Peninsula Marine Ecosystem", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "600097", "doi": "10.15784/600097", "keywords": "Antarctic Peninsula; Biota; LTER Palmer Station; Microbiology; Oceans; Southern Ocean", "people": "Cottrell, Matthew; Kirchman, David", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Photoheterotrophic Microbes in the West Antarctic Peninsula Marine Ecosystem", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/600097"}], "date_created": "Mon, 16 Dec 2013 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5).\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003eLight quality and availability are likely to change in polar ecosystems as ice coverage and thickness decrease. How microbes adjust to these and other changes will have huge impacts on the polar marine ecosystems. Little is known about photoheterotrophic prokaryotes, which are hypothesized to gain a metabolic advantage by harvesting light energy in addition to utilizing dissolved organic matter (DOM). Photoheterotrophy is not included in current models of carbon cycling and energy flow. This research will examine three questions: 1. Are photoheterotrophic microbes present and active in Antarctic waters in winter and summer? 2. Does community structure of photoheterotrophs shift between summer and winter? 3. Which microbial groups assimilate more DOM in light than in the dark? The research will test hypotheses about activity of photoheterotrophs in winter and in summer, shifts in community structure between light and dark seasons and the potentially unique impacts of photoheterotrophs on biogeochemical processes in the Antarctic. The project will directly support a graduate student, will positively impact the NSF REU program at the College of Marine and Earth Studies, and will include students from the nation?s oldest historical minority college. The results will be featured during weekly tours of Lewes facilities (about 1000 visitors per year) and during Coast Day, an annual open-house that attracts about 10,000 visitors.", "east": -64.040665, "geometry": "POINT(-64.0601655 -64.797665)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Not provided", "locations": null, "north": -64.77966, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Cottrell, Matthew; David, Kirchman", "platforms": "Not provided", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -64.81567, "title": "Photoheterotrophic Microbes in the West Antarctic Peninsula Marine Ecosystem", "uid": "p0000473", "west": -64.079666}, {"awards": "0839053 Ackley, Stephen", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -67.05,-170.9866 -67.05,-161.9732 -67.05,-152.9598 -67.05,-143.9464 -67.05,-134.933 -67.05,-125.9196 -67.05,-116.9062 -67.05,-107.8928 -67.05,-98.8794 -67.05,-89.866 -67.05,-89.866 -68.1033,-89.866 -69.1566,-89.866 -70.2099,-89.866 -71.2632,-89.866 -72.3165,-89.866 -73.3698,-89.866 -74.4231,-89.866 -75.4764,-89.866 -76.5297,-89.866 -77.583,-98.8794 -77.583,-107.8928 -77.583,-116.9062 -77.583,-125.9196 -77.583,-134.933 -77.583,-143.9464 -77.583,-152.9598 -77.583,-161.9732 -77.583,-170.9866 -77.583,180 -77.583,178.57 -77.583,177.14 -77.583,175.71 -77.583,174.28 -77.583,172.85 -77.583,171.42 -77.583,169.99 -77.583,168.56 -77.583,167.13 -77.583,165.7 -77.583,165.7 -76.5297,165.7 -75.4764,165.7 -74.4231,165.7 -73.3698,165.7 -72.3165,165.7 -71.2632,165.7 -70.2099,165.7 -69.1566,165.7 -68.1033,165.7 -67.05,167.13 -67.05,168.56 -67.05,169.99 -67.05,171.42 -67.05,172.85 -67.05,174.28 -67.05,175.71 -67.05,177.14 -67.05,178.57 -67.05,-180 -67.05))", "dataset_titles": "The Sea Ice System in Antarctic Summer, Oden Southern Ocean Expedition (OSO 2010-11)", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "600106", "doi": "10.15784/600106", "keywords": "Ice Core Records; Oceans; Oden; OSO1011; Sea Ice; Sea Ice Salinity; Sea Ice Thickness; Southern Ocean", "people": "Ackley, Stephen", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "The Sea Ice System in Antarctic Summer, Oden Southern Ocean Expedition (OSO 2010-11)", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/600106"}], "date_created": "Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Several aspect of the seasonal melting and reformation cycle of Antarctic sea ice appear to be divergent from those occurring in the Arctic. This is most clearly demonstrated by the dramatic diminishing extent and thinning of the Arctic sea ice, to be contrasted to the changes in Antarctic sea-ice extent, which recently (decadaly) shows small increases. Current climate models do not resolve this discrepancy which likely results from both a lack of relevant observational sea-ice data in the Antarctic, along with inadequacies in the physical parameterization of sea-ice properties in climate models.\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003eResearchers will take advantage of the cruise track of the I/B Oden during transit through the Antarctic sea-ice zones in the region of the Bellingshausen, Amundsen and Ross (BAR) seas on a cruise to McMurdo Station. Because of its remoteness and inaccessibility, the BAR region is of considerable scientific interest as being one of the last under described and perhaps unexploited marine ecosystems left on the planet .\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003eA series of on station and underway observations of sea ice properties will be undertaken, thematically linked to broader questions of summer ice survival and baseline physical properties (e.g. estimates of heat and salt fluxes). In situ spatiotemporal variability of sea-ice cover extent, thickness and snow cover depths will be observed.", "east": 165.7, "geometry": "POINT(-142.083 -72.3165)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Not provided", "locations": null, "north": -67.05, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Ackley, Stephen", "platforms": "Not provided", "repo": "USAP-DC", "repositories": "USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -77.583, "title": "The Sea Ice System in Antarctic Summer, Oden Southern Ocean Expedition (OSO 2010-11)", "uid": "p0000676", "west": -89.866}, {"awards": "0542111 Lonsdale, Darcy; 0542456 Caron, David", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-179.9999 -43.5663,-143.99993 -43.5663,-107.99996 -43.5663,-71.99999 -43.5663,-36.00002 -43.5663,-0.000050000000016 -43.5663,35.99992 -43.5663,71.99989 -43.5663,107.99986 -43.5663,143.99983 -43.5663,179.9998 -43.5663,179.9998 -46.99537,179.9998 -50.42444,179.9998 -53.85351,179.9998 -57.28258,179.9998 -60.71165,179.9998 -64.14072,179.9998 -67.56979,179.9998 -70.99886,179.9998 -74.42793,179.9998 -77.857,143.99983 -77.857,107.99986 -77.857,71.99989 -77.857,35.99992 -77.857,-0.000049999999987 -77.857,-36.00002 -77.857,-71.99999 -77.857,-107.99996 -77.857,-143.99993 -77.857,-179.9999 -77.857,-179.9999 -74.42793,-179.9999 -70.99886,-179.9999 -67.56979,-179.9999 -64.14072,-179.9999 -60.71165,-179.9999 -57.28258,-179.9999 -53.85351,-179.9999 -50.42444,-179.9999 -46.99537,-179.9999 -43.5663))", "dataset_titles": "Do Crustacean Zooplankton Play a Pivotal Role in Structuring Heterotrophic Plankton Communities in the Ross Sea?; Expedition Data; NBP0802 data; Processed CurrentMeter Data from the Ross Sea near Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP0801", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "001517", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP0801"}, {"dataset_uid": "000122", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "NBP0802 data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP0802"}, {"dataset_uid": "600059", "doi": "10.15784/600059", "keywords": "Antarctica; Biota; Crustacea; Oceans; Phytoplankton; Ross Sea; Southern Ocean", "people": "Lonsdale, Darcy", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Do Crustacean Zooplankton Play a Pivotal Role in Structuring Heterotrophic Plankton Communities in the Ross Sea?", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/600059"}, {"dataset_uid": "601344", "doi": null, "keywords": "Antarctica; Cape Adare; Mooring; NBP0801; Physical Oceanography; Ross Sea; R/v Nathaniel B. Palmer; Salinity; Southern Ocean; Temperature", "people": "Gordon, Arnold; Huber, Bruce", "repository": "USAP-DC", "science_program": null, "title": "Processed CurrentMeter Data from the Ross Sea near Antarctica acquired during the Nathaniel B. Palmer expedition NBP0801", "url": "https://www.usap-dc.org/view/dataset/601344"}], "date_created": "Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Recent studies of marine ecosystems show conflicting evidence for trophic cascades, and in particular the relative strength of the crustacean zooplankton-phytoplankton link. The Ross Sea is a natural laboratory for investigating this apparent conflict. It is a site of seasonally high abundances of phytoplankton, characterized by regions of distinct phytoplankton taxa; the southcentral polynya is strongly dominated by the colony-forming prymnesiophyte Phaeocystis antarctica, while coastal regions of this sea are typically dominated by diatoms or flagellate species. Recent studies indicate that, while the south-central polynya exhibits a massive phytoplankton bloom, the poor food quality of P. antarctica for many crustacean zooplankton prevents direct utilization of much of this phytoplankton bloom. Rather, evidence suggests that indirect utilization of this production may be the primary mechanism by which carbon and energy become available to those higher trophic levels. Specifically, we hypothesize that nano and microzooplankton constitute an important food source for crustacean zooplankton (largely copepods and juvenile euphausiids) during the summer period in the Ross Sea where the phytoplankton assemblage is dominated by the prymnesiophyte. In turn, we also hypothesize that predation by copepods (and other Crustacea) controls and structures the species composition of these protistan assemblages. We will occupy stations in the south-central Ross Sea Polynya (RSP) and Terra Nova Bay (TNB) during austral summer to test these hypotheses. We hypothesize that the diatom species that dominate the phytoplankton assemblage in TNB constitute a direct source of nutrition to herbivorous/omnivorous zooplankton (relative to the situation in the south-central RSP). That is, the contribution of heterotrophic protists to crustacean diets will be reduced in TNB. Our research will address fundamental gaps in our knowledge of food web structure and trophic cascades, and provide better understanding of the flow of carbon and energy within the biological community of this perennially cold sea. The PIs will play active roles in public education (K-12) via curriculum development (on Antarctic biology) and teacher trainer activities in the Centers for Ocean Science Education Excellence (COSEE-West), an innovative, NSF-funded program centered at USC and UCLA.", "east": 179.9998, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": "IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e CTD; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e MAGNETIC/MOTION SENSORS \u003e GRAVIMETERS \u003e GRAVIMETERS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PRESSURE/HEIGHT METERS \u003e PRESSURE SENSORS; EARTH REMOTE SENSING INSTRUMENTS \u003e PASSIVE REMOTE SENSING \u003e POSITIONING/NAVIGATION \u003e GPS \u003e GPS; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e ACOUSTIC SOUNDERS \u003e ADCP; IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e ACOUSTIC SOUNDERS \u003e MSBS", "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "R/V NBP", "locations": null, "north": -43.5663, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems; Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Lonsdale, Darcy; Caron, Bruce", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "R2R; USAP-DC", "science_programs": null, "south": -77.857, "title": "Collaborative Research: Do Crustacean Zooplankton Play a Pivotal Role in Structuring Heterotrophic Plankton Communities in the Ross Sea?", "uid": "p0000520", "west": -179.9999}, {"awards": "9815961 Bengtson, John", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-179.99905 -43.56728,-143.99915 -43.56728,-107.99925 -43.56728,-71.99935 -43.56728,-35.99945 -43.56728,0.000450000000001 -43.56728,36.00035 -43.56728,72.00025 -43.56728,108.00015 -43.56728,144.00005 -43.56728,179.99995 -43.56728,179.99995 -47.058498,179.99995 -50.549716,179.99995 -54.040934,179.99995 -57.532152,179.99995 -61.02337,179.99995 -64.514588,179.99995 -68.005806,179.99995 -71.497024,179.99995 -74.988242,179.99995 -78.47946,144.00005 -78.47946,108.00015 -78.47946,72.00025 -78.47946,36.00035 -78.47946,0.000450000000001 -78.47946,-35.99945 -78.47946,-71.99935 -78.47946,-107.99925 -78.47946,-143.99915 -78.47946,-179.99905 -78.47946,-179.99905 -74.988242,-179.99905 -71.497024,-179.99905 -68.005806,-179.99905 -64.514588,-179.99905 -61.02337,-179.99905 -57.532152,-179.99905 -54.040934,-179.99905 -50.549716,-179.99905 -47.058498,-179.99905 -43.56728))", "dataset_titles": "Expedition Data", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "001997", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP9909"}], "date_created": "Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "9815961 BENGTSON The pack ice region surrounding Antarctica contains at least fifty percent of the world\u0027s population of seals, comprising about eighty percent of the world\u0027s total pinniped biomass. As a group, these seals are among the dominant top predators in Southern Ocean ecosystems, and the fluctuation in their abundance, growth patterns, life histories, and behavior provide a potential source of information about environmental variability integrated over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. This proposal was developed as part of the international Antarctic Pack Ice Seals (APIS) program, which is aimed to better understand the ecological relationships between the distribution of pack ice seals and their environment. During January-February, 2000, a research cruise through the pack ice zone of the eastern Ross Sea and western Amundsen Sea will be conducted to survey and sample along six transects perpendicular to the continental shelf. Each of these transects will pass through five environmental sampling strata: continental shelf zone, Antarctic slope front, pelagic zone, the ice edge front, and the open water outside the pack ice zone. All zones but open water will be ice-covered to some degree. Surveys along each transect will gather data on bathymetry, hydrography, sea ice dynamics and characteristics, phytoplankton and ice algae stocks, prey species (e.g., fish, cephalopods and euphausiids), and seal distribution, abundance and diet. This physical and trophic approach to investigating ecological interactions among pack ice seals, prey and the physical environment will allow the interdisciplinary research team to test the hypothesis that there are measurable physical and biological features in the Southern Ocean that result in area of high biological activity by upper trophic level predators. Better insight into the interplay among pack ice seals and biological and physical features of Antarctic marine ecosystems will allow for a better prediction of fluctuation in seal population in the context of environmental change.", "east": 179.99995, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": "IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e PROFILERS/SOUNDERS \u003e ACOUSTIC SOUNDERS \u003e MSBS", "is_usap_dc": false, "keywords": "R/V NBP", "locations": null, "north": -43.56728, "nsf_funding_programs": null, "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Bengtson, John", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "R2R", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.47946, "title": "Antarctic Pack Ice Seals: Ecological Interactions with Prey and the Environment", "uid": "p0000614", "west": -179.99905}, {"awards": "9419605 Dunbar, Robert; 9896356 Dunbar, Robert", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -43.56493,-144.00001 -43.56493,-108.00002 -43.56493,-72.00003 -43.56493,-36.00004 -43.56493,-0.000049999999987 -43.56493,35.99994 -43.56493,71.99993 -43.56493,107.99992 -43.56493,143.99991 -43.56493,179.9999 -43.56493,179.9999 -47.023783,179.9999 -50.482636,179.9999 -53.941489,179.9999 -57.400342,179.9999 -60.859195,179.9999 -64.318048,179.9999 -67.776901,179.9999 -71.235754,179.9999 -74.694607,179.9999 -78.15346,143.99991 -78.15346,107.99992 -78.15346,71.99993 -78.15346,35.99994 -78.15346,-0.000050000000016 -78.15346,-36.00004 -78.15346,-72.00003 -78.15346,-108.00002 -78.15346,-144.00001 -78.15346,-180 -78.15346,-180 -74.694607,-180 -71.235754,-180 -67.776901,-180 -64.318048,-180 -60.859195,-180 -57.400342,-180 -53.941489,-180 -50.482636,-180 -47.023783,-180 -43.56493))", "dataset_titles": "Expedition Data", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "002132", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP9709"}, {"dataset_uid": "002094", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP9807"}, {"dataset_uid": "002154", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP9606"}], "date_created": "Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "This project is an interdisciplinary study, titled Research on Ocean-Atmosphere Variability and Ecosystem Response in the Ross Sea (ROAVERRS), of atmospheric forcing, ocean hydrography, sea ice dynamics, primary productivity, and pelagic-benthic coupling in the southwestern Ross Sea, Antarctica. The primary goal is to examine how changes in aspects of the polar climate system, in this case wind and temperature, combine to influence marine productivity on a large antarctic continental shelf. In the Ross Sea, katabatic winds and mesocyclones influence the spatial and temporal distribution of sea ice as well as the upper ocean mixed layer depth, and thus control primary production within the sea ice as well as in the open water system. The structure, standing stock and productivity of bottom- dwelling biological communities are also linked to meteorological processes through interseasonal and interannual variations in horizontal and vertical fluxes of organic carbon produced in the upper ocean. Linkages among the atmospheric, oceanic, and biological systems will be investigated during a three-year field study of the southwestern Ross Sea ecosystem. Direct measurements will include regional wind and air temperatures derived from automatic weather stations; ice cover, ice movement, and sea surface temperatures derived from a variety of satellite-based sensors; hydrographic characteristics of the upper ocean and primary productivity in the ice and in the water derived from research cruises and satellite studies; vertical flux of organic material and water movement derived from oceanographic moorings containing sediment traps and current meters, and the abundance, distribution, and respiration rates of biological communities on the sea floor, derived from box cores, benthic photographs and shipboard incubations. Based on archived meteorological data, it is expected that the atmospheric variability during the study period will be such that changes in airflow pat terns and their influence on oceanographic and biological patterns can be monitored, and their direct and indirect linkages that are the focus of the research can be deduced. Results from this study will contribute to our knowledge of atmospheric and oceanic forcing of marine ecosystems, and lead to a better understanding of marine ecosystem response to climatic variations. ***", "east": 179.9999, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": "IN SITU/LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS \u003e MAGNETIC/MOTION SENSORS \u003e GRAVIMETERS \u003e GRAVIMETERS", "is_usap_dc": false, "keywords": "R/V NBP", "locations": null, "north": -43.56493, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences; Antarctic Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Dunbar, Robert", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "R2R", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.15346, "title": "Research on Ocean-Atmosphere Variability and Ecosystem Response in the Ross Sea (ROAVERRS)", "uid": "p0000635", "west": -180.0}, {"awards": "9714299 Caron, David", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-179.9984 -43.56676,-143.99865 -43.56676,-107.9989 -43.56676,-71.99915 -43.56676,-35.9994 -43.56676,0.000349999999997 -43.56676,36.0001 -43.56676,71.99985 -43.56676,107.9996 -43.56676,143.99935 -43.56676,179.9991 -43.56676,179.9991 -47.057693,179.9991 -50.548626,179.9991 -54.039559,179.9991 -57.530492,179.9991 -61.021425,179.9991 -64.512358,179.9991 -68.003291,179.9991 -71.494224,179.9991 -74.985157,179.9991 -78.47609,143.99935 -78.47609,107.9996 -78.47609,71.99985 -78.47609,36.0001 -78.47609,0.000349999999997 -78.47609,-35.9994 -78.47609,-71.99915 -78.47609,-107.9989 -78.47609,-143.99865 -78.47609,-179.9984 -78.47609,-179.9984 -74.985157,-179.9984 -71.494224,-179.9984 -68.003291,-179.9984 -64.512358,-179.9984 -61.021425,-179.9984 -57.530492,-179.9984 -54.039559,-179.9984 -50.548626,-179.9984 -47.057693,-179.9984 -43.56676))", "dataset_titles": "Expedition Data", "datasets": [{"dataset_uid": "002003", "doi": "", "keywords": null, "people": null, "repository": "R2R", "science_program": null, "title": "Expedition Data", "url": "https://www.rvdata.us/search/cruise/NBP9901"}], "date_created": "Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "*** Caron 9714299 The analysis of microbial biodiversity of extreme environments is difficult because traditional methods for examining diversity are often ineffective for assessing species richness within these communities. Additional difficulties arise due to the difficulties of recreating and maintaining pertinent environmental features during sample collection and procession. This study focuses on the protistan assemblages (algae and protozoa) in the sea ice, sediment and ocean environments of the Ross Sea, Antarctica. The identification of protistan species in natural assemblages traditionally has entailed direct microscopical analyses as well as enrichment and culture techniques for assessing biodiversity. Determination of diversity for these assemblages in therefore susceptible to biases as a consequence of sampling, enrichment and culture, as well as selective losses due to sample preservation and concentration for microscopy. The goals of this project are: (1) to develop and apply molecular biological approaches to assess species diversity of small protists (algae and protozoa smaller than 100 micrometers) in ocean water, sea ice and sediment environments and (2) to obtain baseline physiological information on the growth rates, feeding rates and growth efficiencies of cultured protozoa under pertinent temperature regimes. Molecular biological studies will involve the use of PCR-based protocols to examine small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (srDNA) diversity. Approaches and techniques developed will be applicable to any other water body or sediment and would provide a means to examine the representativeness of protistan cultures in extant culture collections. ***", "east": 179.9991, "geometry": "POINT(0 -89.999)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": false, "keywords": "R/V NBP", "locations": null, "north": -43.56676, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Caron, David; Jeffries, Martin", "platforms": "WATER-BASED PLATFORMS \u003e VESSELS \u003e SURFACE \u003e R/V NBP", "repo": "R2R", "repositories": "R2R", "science_programs": null, "south": -78.47609, "title": "LEXEN: Protistan Biodiversity in Antarctic Marine Ecosystems: Molecular Biological and Traditional Approaches", "uid": "p0000625", "west": -179.9984}, {"awards": "0741403 Sherrell, Robert", "bounds_geometry": "POLYGON((-180 -69,-172.5 -69,-165 -69,-157.5 -69,-150 -69,-142.5 -69,-135 -69,-127.5 -69,-120 -69,-112.5 -69,-105 -69,-105 -69.9,-105 -70.8,-105 -71.7,-105 -72.6,-105 -73.5,-105 -74.4,-105 -75.3,-105 -76.2,-105 -77.1,-105 -78,-112.5 -78,-120 -78,-127.5 -78,-135 -78,-142.5 -78,-150 -78,-157.5 -78,-165 -78,-172.5 -78,180 -78,178.8 -78,177.6 -78,176.4 -78,175.2 -78,174 -78,172.8 -78,171.6 -78,170.4 -78,169.2 -78,168 -78,168 -77.1,168 -76.2,168 -75.3,168 -74.4,168 -73.5,168 -72.6,168 -71.7,168 -70.8,168 -69.9,168 -69,169.2 -69,170.4 -69,171.6 -69,172.8 -69,174 -69,175.2 -69,176.4 -69,177.6 -69,178.8 -69,-180 -69))", "dataset_titles": null, "datasets": null, "date_created": "Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT", "description": "Abstract\u003cbr/\u003e\u003cbr/\u003eThe research objective is (1) to determine the distributions and dynamics of a full suite of bioactive trace metals in dissolved and suspended particulate forms, along sampling transects of the Amundsen and Ross Seas. And (2) to test the sensitivity of overall cellular metal stoichiometry (metal/carbon ratios) to natural gradients in species assemblage and Fe availability. Our earlier findings from a single Ross Sea station and from a Drake Passage crossing suggest that Fe-limited phytoplankton cells are unusually enriched in Zn, Cu and Cd relative to biomass carbon, with strong implications for the biogeochemical cycling of these elements relative to carbon fluxes in the Southern Ocean. In collaboration with other researchers on the cruise, we will also measure metal stoichiometry of cells exposed to predicted 2010 temperature and carbon dioxide levels in shipboard incubation studies, as a window into possible effects of climate change on metals biogeochemistry in these regions. This proposal will support close international collaborations and lasting infrastructure development as US and Swedish scientists, and more importantly, their students, work toward shared the shared goal of understanding a region that is experiencing one of the fastest rates of climate change on the globe. Trace metal micro-nutrients are a key control on the productivity of Antarctic marine ecosystems. Our results will be made widely available through research publications and internet-available databases, and public outreach through COSEE at Rutgers University.", "east": -105.0, "geometry": "POINT(-148.5 -73.5)", "instruments": null, "is_usap_dc": true, "keywords": "Not provided", "locations": null, "north": -69.0, "nsf_funding_programs": "Antarctic Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences", "paleo_time": null, "persons": "Sherrell, Robert", "platforms": "Not provided", "repositories": null, "science_programs": null, "south": -78.0, "title": "SGER: Science-of-Opportunity Aboard Icebreaker Oden: Bioactive trace metals in the Amundsen and Ross Seas", "uid": "p0000561", "west": 168.0}]
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- The default table sorting order is: Selected, Visible, Date (descending), but this can be changed by clicking on column headers in the table.
- Selecting Show on Map for an individual row will both display the geographic bounds for that result on a mini map, and also display the bounds and highlight the centroid on the Results Map.
- Clicking the 'Show boundaries' checkbox at the top of the Results Map will display all the bounds for the filtered results.
Defining a search area on the Results Map
- If you click on the Rectangle or Polygon icons in the top right of the Results Map, you can define a search area which will be added to any other search criteria already selected.
- After you have drawn a polygon, you can edit it using the Edit Geometry dropdown in the search form at the top.
- Clicking Clear in the map will clear any drawn polygon.
- Clicking Search in the map, or Search on the form will have the same effect.
- The returned results will be any projects/datasets with bounds that intersect the polygon.
- Use the Exclude project/datasets checkbox to exclude any projects/datasets that cover the whole Antarctic region.
Viewing map layers on the Results Map
Older retrieved projects from AMD. Warning: many have incomplete information.
To sort the table of search results, click the header of the column you wish to search by. To sort by multiple columns, hold down the shift key whilst selecting the sort columns in order.
Project Title/Abstract/Map | NSF Award(s) | Date Created | PIs / Scientists | Dataset Links and Repositories | Abstract | Bounds Geometry | Geometry | Selected | Visible | |||||||
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RCN: Building a Coordinated Network for Research and Monitoring in Large-Scale International Marine Protected Areas: The Ross Sea Region as a Model System
|
2448649 |
2025-03-10 | Brooks, Cassandra | No dataset link provided | Marine protected areas (MPAs) are protected areas of seas, oceans, and estuaries. They need coordinated research and monitoring for informed management to fulfill their conservation potential. Coordination is challenging, however, often due to knowledge gaps caused by inadequate access to data and resources, compounded by insufficient communication between scientists and managers. This Research Coordinating Network (RCN) uses the world’s largest MPA in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, as a model system to create an international interdisciplinary network supporting policy-relevant research and monitoring that could be implemented in other remote, large-scale international MPAs. The first 10-year review of the Ross Sea MPA in 2027 will present a critical opportunity to coordinate across science, policy, and other partner communities to ensure the 2027 review (and subsequent reviews) are well grounded in robust scientific data, analyses, and streamlined inputs into policy. Many Antarctic research, policy, and conservation groups exist, some are even already focused on the Ross Sea, but there is not yet a formalized framework for coordination. Hence, the need for an RCN which can formalize connections among policy, research, and other communities focused specifically on research and monitoring of the Ross Sea region MPA. The RCN also provides an example of how to bring together diverse interdisciplinary participants towards an effective, integrated science-policy collaboration. To fulfill their conservation potential and provide safeguards for biodiversity, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) need coordinated research and monitoring for informed management through effective evaluation of ecosystem dynamics. The Ross Sea MPA in Antarctica is the world’s largest MPA and the only one on the high seas. The Research Coordination Network (RCN) will connect three key components: (i) policy engagement, (ii) community partner engagement, and (iii) integrated science. The science component comprises three themes: data science and cyberinfrastructure; biophysical modeling; and observations that include monitoring and process studies. Guided by clear research questions across the three components, the RCN will lead to new knowledge about the barriers to science-policy engagement and strategies to overcome them; strategies for effectively engaging diverse community partners; and science needed to better understand the Ross Sea ecosystem structure and function, including strategies for international coordination. The three science themes inform understanding of the ecosystem, and thus, the potential efficacy of the Ross Sea region MPA. Data science and cyberinfrastructure provide essential structures for coordinated research. Biophysical modeling is critical for evaluating ecosystem metrics and can be illustrative for understanding changes in ecosystem structure and function. Observations and process studies are needed for addressing knowledge gaps and informing cyberinfrastructure tools and biophysical modeling efforts. The science integration component will advance knowledge while also advancing transformative interdisciplinary collaboration across data science, modeling, and observations. The RCN will build new connections and collaborations among scientists, policymakers and community partners, internationally and across disciplines, while integrating science and policy in novel ways. The RCN will operate through regular engagement across the network communities, including meetings and targeted activities with specific products and outcomes. The RCN increases diversity, science diplomacy, knowledge exchange, and conservation and five early- to mid-career researchers have leading roles. The contributions from this RCN will facilitate significant advances in the ability to understand high latitude marine ecosystems and how these systems respond to competing stressors, including climate change and fishing. Further, lessons learned through the RCN could offer guidance on how other large-scale international MPAs are monitored and assessed. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | None | None | false | false | |||||||
MCA: Cellular Responses to Thermal Stress in Antarctic Fishes: Dynamic Re-structuring of the Proteome in Extreme Stenotherms
|
2322117 |
2025-02-27 | Buckley, Bradley; Kueltz, Dietmar | No dataset link provided | Part 1: This project focuses on a group of ecologically important species of fishes which inhabit the frigid waters of Antarctica. They represent a key link in the polar food web as they are prey for penguins, seals and toothed whales. These fish have evolved in the constant, extreme cold for millions of years and therefore, are very sensitive to the increasing water temperatures associated with global warming. These studies will investigate the impacts of incremental heat exposure on the biology of these fishes by examining their ability to respond, or inability to respond, to elevated temperatures. The project will employ cutting-edge technology to examine responses at the cellular level that may help these environmentally sensitive fishes adapt to the challenges of global warming. The primary goal is to increase our collective understanding of how polar ecosystems are likely to be impacted in the coming decades. Part 2: The proposed research is designed to use an existing bank of frozen tissues from a species of cold-adapted Antarctic fish to investigate protein-level responses to heat stress. These samples were collected earlier in the PI's career during fieldwork at McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Four tissues (control as well as heat- stressed) will be analyzed via mass spectrometry to characterize their proteome, defined as the entire complement of proteins in a sample. This includes both identification and quantification of these proteins. The goal is to determine what mechanisms of response to elevated temperature are available to the extremely cold-adapted, stenothermic fishes of Antarctica. Follow-up analyses will use immunoblotting (Western blotting) with antibodies specific to a sub-set of proteins revealed to be heat-responsive in the proteomic analyses. As this is a Mid-Career Advancement Award, training and mentorship in proteomic analyses for the PI will be supported, with time spent at the partner institution, the University of California, Davis. Intellectual Merit While there has been an increase in the use of genomic technologies to probe gene expression profiles in Antarctic species, few studies exist looking at protein level changes during exposure to heat stress in these organisms. Therefore, the proposed studies would represent a large leap forward in our understanding of how these environmentally sensitive species can, or cannot, respond at the cellular level as the Earth continues to warm and water temperatures rise. As proteins do the "work" in the cell, it's vital to understand which proteins are present and in what quantity and how dynamic this "proteome" is during stress. The proposed studies would provide this information for thousands of proteins, using already existing samples. The findings would be entirely novel and would allow us a much better picture of how animals that evolved in the cold for millions of years are likely to respond to climate change. Broader Impacts The PI has established relationships with several regional K-12 institutions and will continue to provide outreach in the form of classroom visits and the creation of classroom curricula. The PI has an on-going collaboration with the Oregon Coast Aquarium (Newport, OR) to create novel teaching materials for grades 6-8. The Aquarium has partners in surrounding school districts and will help disseminate videos about marine biology and climate change. Modules concerning polar species will be created under this proposal. An interactive website will be created demonstrating the Antarctic food web. All of the proteomic analyses and libraries generated under this award will be made publicly available for use by any interested researcher. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | None | None | false | false | |||||||
2021 Polar Marine Science GRC and GRS
|
2029777 |
2025-02-07 | Matrai, Patricia; Babin, Marcel | No dataset link provided | This award provides funding in support of participation by U.S. graduate students and early career researchers for the 2019 Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) and Gordon Research Conference (GRC) Polar Marine Science meetings to be held in Ventura, CA May 22-28, 2021. The 2021 GRC event is entitled “Integrating Ocean Physics and Biogeochemistry to Assess Polar Ecosystem Sensitivity to Rapid Change”. Gordon conferences on this topic are held every two years and provide a key forum to discuss cutting-edge and cross-disciplinary marine research highlighted as an international priority topic. The conference plan is designed to provide powerful insights into the present and future states of polar marine ecosystems, including the local and regional aspects of ocean circulation, sea ice dynamics, biogeochemical fluxes, biodiversity, ecosystem health and human well-being. This event will bring together an interdisciplinary group of students and young researchers from many fields working in Polar regions. Exchanges of this type are essential for ensuring that U.S. scientists and engineers maintain international research leadership in in polar regions. Participants will have an opportunity to present their work in the form of oral presentations or posters while interacting with some of the most eminent researchers in the field. The GRS and GRC will address fundamental aspects, which are related to the grand environmental and sustainability challenges facing mankind. Specific emphasis will be given to defining the next generation challenges in polar region research. The unique format of the Gordon Research Conferences with invited talks, limited attendance, and ample time for interactions will provide early career scientists with ample opportunities for discussions and networking. Particular emphasis will be placed on encouraging student and post-doc participation from a broad range of institutions. The GRC-PPS will be widely advertised in the community and the participation and application for travel support by junior scientists will be strongly encouraged. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
NSFGEO-NERC Collaborative Research: Effects of a Changing Climate on the Habitat Utilization, Foraging Ecology and Distribution of Crabeater Seals
|
2042032 |
2024-11-27 | Huckstadt, Luis |
|
Part I: Non-technical description: The crabeater seal is the most important predator of Antarctic krill in the western Antarctic Peninsula oceanic waters after the disappearance of large whales due to human hunting 100 years ago. The crabeater seals are expected to consume large quantities of krill due to their high abundance (about 7 million individuals), large body size (about 700 pounds in body weight), high metabolism and a diet specializing in krill. This species depends on sea ice presence all year long, living, reproducing, and diving to feed from that environment, making this marine mammal species a good indicator, or sentinel, of how the Antarctic ecosystem responds to a changing climate. As sea ice has been decreasing in the northern Antarctic Peninsula, this project aims to understand if the species food availability has changed in the last decades in response to environmental changes. In particular, the proposed work will concentrate on known populations of crabeater seals in northern (i.e., warmer, sub-polar) and southern (i.e., colder, polar) Antarctic Peninsula, 450 miles apart, making measurements on the abundance, physiology, metabolic needs and movement of the crabeater populations in both locations. The data will be combined to build models that will quantify the existing differences between northern and southern populations, as well as predict their future change, and compare present-day measurements with those collected by the British Antarctic Survey in the mid-1900s. The project is a collaboration between an international and interdisciplinary team from the United States and United Kingdom, benefitting NSF goals to facilitate collaborative geoscience research projects involving these two countries as well as aligning directly with U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) to better understand the forces shaping the global environment, both human and natural, and their impacts on society. To further increase polar literacy and education, Principal Investigators will train at least 2 graduate students and several undergraduates across two US institutions, as well as one UK-based post-doctoral researcher. Part II: Technical description: Crabeater seals (Lobodon carcinophaga) are considered an excellent sentinel species through which to examine the effects of a changing climate on the extended Antarctic krill-dependent predator community and the structure of the entire ecosystem of the western Antarctic Peninsula. Over the last forty years, there have been significant changes in the temporal and spatial patterns of primary productivity, and shifts in the population dynamics of Antarctic krill, the dominant mid-trophic level species. The impact of such changes on year-round resident species of crabeater seals (the most important predator of Antarctic krill) is more difficult to understand as they are not associated with breeding colonies where their population fluctuations could be more readily observed. The proposed research is conceived under the premise that environmental change has accentuated the differences between the northern and southern western Antarctic Peninsula crabeater seal populations due to differential reductions in sea-ice and its possible effect on prey availability. To address this question, this research will combine measurements on animal movement, stable isotope analyses, whole-animal physiology, and novel survey technologies (small Unmanned Aircraft Systems, satellite imagery) to build models. The project is a collaboration between an international and interdisciplinary team from the United States and United Kingdom. These studies will be essential to detect past, and project future, changes in the ecology of this species in response to changes in sea ice when comparing present-day measurements with those collected by the British Antarctic Survey in the mid-1900s. To further increase polar literacy and education, Principal Investigators will train at least 2 graduate students and several undergraduates across two US institutions, as well as one UK-based post-doctoral researcher. Students involved with this project will gain invaluable research experience in the lab and will have a unique opportunity to participate in Antarctic fieldwork. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | None | None | false | false | |||||||
Projecting the Biological Carbon Pump and Climate Feedback in the Rapidly Changing West Antarctic Peninsula: A Hybrid Modeling Study
|
2332062 |
2024-08-05 | Kim, Heather | No dataset link provided | The West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) is experiencing significant environmental changes, including warming temperatures, reduced sea ice, and glacier retreat. These changes could impact marine ecosystems and biological and chemical processes, particularly the biological pump, which is the process by which carbon is transported from the ocean surface to the deep sea, playing a crucial role in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. This project aims to understand how climate change affects the biological pump in the WAP region. Using a combination of advanced modeling techniques and data from long-term research programs, the project will investigate the processes governing the biological pump and its climate feedback. The findings will provide insights into the future dynamics of the WAP region and contribute to our understanding of climate change impacts on polar marine ecosystems. This research is important as it will enhance knowledge of how polar regions respond to climate change, which is vital for predicting global climate patterns and informing conservation efforts. Furthermore, the project supports the development of early-career researchers and promotes diversity in science through collaborations with educational programs and outreach to underrepresented communities. This project focuses on the WAP, a region undergoing rapid environmental changes. The goal is to investigate and quantify the factors controlling the biological pump and its feedback to climate change and variability. A novel hybrid modeling framework will be developed, integrating observational data from the Palmer Long-Term Ecological Research program and the Rothera Oceanographic and Biological Time-Series into a sophisticated one-dimensional mechanistic biogeochemical model. This framework will utilize Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning techniques for data assimilation and parameter optimization. By incorporating complementary datasets and optimizing model parameters, the project aims to reduce uncertainties in modeling biological pump processes. The study will also use climate scenarios from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 to assess the impacts of future climate conditions on the biological pump. Additionally, the project will examine the role of vertical mixing of dissolved organic matter in total export production, providing a comprehensive understanding of the WAP carbon cycle. The outcomes will improve temporal resolution and data assimilation, advancing the mechanistic understanding of the interplay between ocean dynamics and biogeochemical processes in the changing polar environment. The project will also leverage unique datasets and make the model framework and source codes publicly available, facilitating collaboration and benefiting the broader scientific community. Outreach efforts include engaging with educational programs and promoting diversity in Polar Science through collaborations with institutions serving underrepresented groups. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-80 -59,-76.8 -59,-73.6 -59,-70.4 -59,-67.2 -59,-64 -59,-60.8 -59,-57.599999999999994 -59,-54.4 -59,-51.2 -59,-48 -59,-48 -60.6,-48 -62.2,-48 -63.8,-48 -65.4,-48 -67,-48 -68.6,-48 -70.2,-48 -71.8,-48 -73.4,-48 -75,-51.2 -75,-54.4 -75,-57.6 -75,-60.8 -75,-64 -75,-67.2 -75,-70.4 -75,-73.6 -75,-76.8 -75,-80 -75,-80 -73.4,-80 -71.8,-80 -70.2,-80 -68.6,-80 -67,-80 -65.4,-80 -63.8,-80 -62.2,-80 -60.6,-80 -59)) | POINT(-64 -67) | false | false | |||||||
Planning: Formulating and Sustaining a System-Level Understanding of a Large Marine Ecosystem in the Ross Sea Region Marine Protected Area to Better Conserve and Guide Policy
|
2233187 |
2024-02-28 | Stammerjohn, Sharon; Brooks, Cassandra | No dataset link provided | The Ross Sea Region Marine Protected Area (RSRMPA), one of the world’s largest MPAs, encompasses one of the healthiest marine ecosystems remaining on this planet; however, it is exposed to increasing stress from ongoing climate change and fishing pressure. Numerous gaps in our understanding of the highly coupled nature of the Ross Sea marine ecosystem need to be addressed to support conservation efforts in the Ross Sea region, including informing the efficacy and management of the RSRMPA into the coming decades. The overarching goal of this research is to formulate an innovative and sustainable world-class research program aimed at better understanding, conserving, and managing the RSRMPA through the coordination of multi-faceted system-level approaches. There will be a coordinated effort to facilitate international collaboration; create education, outreach, and Diverse Equitable and Inclusive (DEI) opportunities; and increase conservation awareness. Coordinating Ross Sea marine ecosystem research will contribute to enhancing system-level global research, sustainable data networks, DEI, and climate equity. This program will also provide opportunity to develop similar frameworks for other large-scale, globally important systems. The trans-disciplinary aspiration can also serve to guide the NSF in sustaining or initiating new funding opportunities while addressing several of the 10 NSF BIG IDEAS and engaging multiple NSF Directorates. The project will help maintain NSF’s mission of scientific leadership by networking the Antarctic community by providing science-based conservation plans to help mitigate environmental changes in this pristine region of the Southern Ocean. The researchers will convene a workshop to strategize the implementation of an internationally networked, world class program that is based on inter- and trans-disciplinary approaches (including bridging science, cyberinfrastructure, policy, management, and conservation), while also providing opportunities for STEM education, early career development, and core DEI principles. To effectively facilitate the prioritization of research related to the regional and global interconnectedness of the Ross Sea marine ecosystem, the workshop will involve leading experts in Ross Sea marine research and other researchers, stakeholders, and policy experts involved in the greater oceanographic, climate and ecosystem/food web modeling communities. The workshop will determine a long-term decadal plan comprising the following phases: (1) initial data synthesis and ecosystem/food web model development; (2) field observations and modeling, networked through an internationally coordinated Ross Sea Observing System; and (3) data synthesis and modeling, including a “sunset” plan to support ongoing RSRMPA management and preservation of the Ross Sea marine ecosystem. Outcomes will include a workshop report detailing the long-term research plan, a peer-reviewed article, educational and outreach materials, and a list of proposed research topics for implementing a world class research program and Principal Investigators who will help coordinate the multiple efforts aimed at addressing major gaps in our knowledge of the Ross Sea system. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -70,-177 -70,-174 -70,-171 -70,-168 -70,-165 -70,-162 -70,-159 -70,-156 -70,-153 -70,-150 -70,-150 -71,-150 -72,-150 -73,-150 -74,-150 -75,-150 -76,-150 -77,-150 -78,-150 -79,-150 -80,-153 -80,-156 -80,-159 -80,-162 -80,-165 -80,-168 -80,-171 -80,-174 -80,-177 -80,180 -80,178 -80,176 -80,174 -80,172 -80,170 -80,168 -80,166 -80,164 -80,162 -80,160 -80,160 -79,160 -78,160 -77,160 -76,160 -75,160 -74,160 -73,160 -72,160 -71,160 -70,162 -70,164 -70,166 -70,168 -70,170 -70,172 -70,174 -70,176 -70,178 -70,-180 -70)) | POINT(-175 -75) | false | false | |||||||
ANT LIA: The Role of Sex Determination in the Radiation of Antarctic Notothenioid Fish
|
2232891 |
2023-08-14 | Postlethwait, John; Desvignes, Thomas | No dataset link provided | Antarctic animals face tremendous threats as Antarctic ice sheets melt and temperatures rise. About 34 million years ago, when Antarctica began to cool, most species of fish became locally extinct. A group called the notothenioids, however, survived due to the evolution of antifreeze. The group eventually split into over 120 species. Why did this group of Antarctic fishes evolve into so many species? One possible reason why a single population splits into two species relates to sex genes and sex chromosomes. Diverging species often have either different sex determining genes (genes that specify whether an individual’s gonads become ovaries or testes) or have different sex chromosomes (chromosomes that differ between males and females within a species, like the human X and Y chromosomes). We know the sex chromosomes of only a few notothenioid species and know the genetic basis for sex determination in none of them. The aims of this research are to: 1) identify sex chromosomes in species representing every major group of Antarctic notothenioid fish; 2) discover possible sex determining genes in every major group of Antarctic notothenioid fish; and 3) find sex chromosomes and possible sex determining genes in two groups of temperate, warmer water, notothenioid fish. These warmer water fish include groups that never experienced the frigid Southern Ocean and groups that had ancestors inhabiting Antarctic oceans that later adjusted to warmer waters. This project will help explain the mechanisms that led to the division of a group of species threatened by climate change. This information is critical to conserve declining populations of Antarctic notothenioids, which are major food sources for other Antarctic species such as bird and seals. The project will offer a diverse group of undergraduates the opportunity to develop a permanent exhibit at the Eugene Science Center Museum. The exhibit will describe the Antarctic environment and explain its rapid climate change. It will also introduce the continent’s bizarre fishes that live below the freezing point of water. The project will collaborate with the university’s Science and Comics Initiative and students in the English Department’s Comics Studies Minor to prepare short graphic novels explaining Antarctic biogeography, icefish specialties, and the science of this project as it develops. As Antarctica cooled, most species disappeared from the continent’s waters, but cryonotothenioid fish radiated into a species flock. What facilitated this radiation? Coyne’s “two rules of speciation” offer explanations for why species diverge: 1) the dysgenic sex in an interspecies hybrid is the one with two different sex chromosomes (i.e., in humans, it would be XY males and not XX females); and 2) “sex chromosomes play an outsized role in speciation”. These ideas propel the project’s main hypothesis: new sex chromosomes and new sex determination genes associate with cryonotothenioid speciation events. The main objective of the research is to identify notothenioid sex chromosomes and candidate sex-determination genes in many notothenioid species. The project’s first aim is to identify Antarctic fish sex chromosomes, asking the question: Did new sex chromosomes accompany speciation events? Knowledge gaps include: which species have cryptic sex chromosomes; which have newly evolved sex chromosomes; and which are chromosomally XX/XY or ZZ/ZW. Methods involve population genomics (RAD-seq and Pool-seq) for more than 20 Antarctic cryonotothenioids. The prediction is frequent turnover of sex chromosomes. The project’s second aim is to Identify candidate Antarctic cryonotothenioid sex-determination genes, asking the question: Did new sex-determination genes accompany Antarctic cryonotothenioid speciation events? A knowledge gap is the identity of sex determination genes in any notothenioid. Preliminary data show that three sex-linked loci are in or adjacent to three different candidate sex determination genes: 1) a duplicate of bmpr1ba in blackfin icefish; 2) a tandem duplicate of gsdf in South Georgia icefish; and 3) a transposed duplicate of gsdf in striped notothen. Methods involve annotating the genomic neighborhoods of cryonotothenioid sex linked loci for anomalies in candidate sex genes, sequencing sex chromosomes, and testing sex gene variants by CRISPR mutagenesis in zebrafish. The prediction is frequent turnover of sex determination genes. The project’s third aim is to identify sex chromosomes and sex-determination genes in temperate notothenioids. Basally diverging temperate notothenioids (‘basals’) lack identifiable sex chromosomes, consistent with temperature-cued sex determination, and one ‘basal’ species is a hermaphrodite. The constantly cold Southern Ocean rules out temperature, a common sex determination cue in many temperate fish, favoring genetic sex determination. Some cryonotothenioids re-invaded temperate waters (‘returnees’). Knowledge gaps include whether basals and returnees have strong sex determination genes. Methods employ pool-seq. The prediction is that genetic sex determination is weak in basals and that returnees have the same, but weaker, sex-linked loci as their Antarctic sister clade. A permanent exhibit will be established at the Eugene Science Center Museum tentatively entitled: The Antarctic: its fishes and climate change. Thousands of visitors, especially school children will be exposed, to the science of Antarctic ecosystems and the impacts of climate change. The research team will collaborate with the university’s Science and Comics Initiative to produce short graphic novels explaining Antarctic biogeography, icefish specialties, and this project. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -37,-144 -37,-108 -37,-72 -37,-36 -37,0 -37,36 -37,72 -37,108 -37,144 -37,180 -37,180 -42.3,180 -47.6,180 -52.9,180 -58.2,180 -63.5,180 -68.8,180 -74.1,180 -79.4,180 -84.69999999999999,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -84.7,-180 -79.4,-180 -74.1,-180 -68.8,-180 -63.5,-180 -58.2,-180 -52.9,-180 -47.6,-180 -42.300000000000004,-180 -37)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
CAREER: Experimentally Testing the Role of Sympagic Algae in Sea-ice Environments using a Laboratory Scale Ice-tank.
|
2142491 |
2023-07-26 | Young, Jodi | No dataset link provided | Sea ice in Antarctic coastal waters shape ecosystems, both in the surface waters and at the bottom of the ocean, environments that depend on algae living in sea ice for their productivity. With high variability in sea ice formation and melt between years and as a response to climate change, it is of importance to obtain better understanding of the interaction of sea ice with algae, as well as provide better data for global climate models. This project will accomplish those goals by measuring phytoplankton growth and cellular properties in sea ice with experiments performed using an ice tank. Laboratory experiments will be based on previous observations in the Antarctic Peninsula coastal waters, providing realistic conditions to emulate. The scientific importance of the proposed work aligns with the National Science Foundation goals to understand the biological and chemical properties of sea ice bio-geo-chemistry and its feedbacks with seasonal sea ice dynamics and climate. The finding from this project will be of interest to a broad scientific community, including oceanographers, biologists, chemists, and ecosystem and ocean modelers. To address the scarcity of data on sea ice microbes that limits our ability to predict future Antarctic climate with accuracy, the principal investigator will develop an Antarctic Science Minor in order to train future scientists with an environmental perspective and prepare the future US workforce with a strong scientific background on Earth and Biological Sciences. There is a paucity of data to understand the processes underlying observed patters in sea ice quality and their interaction with the sea-ice microbial community. This project will provide a mechanistic understanding of primary production and physiology of sympagic algae over the seasonal cycle of formation and melt of Antarctic sea ice. Although sea ice is central to the Antarctic coastal ecosystems, little is known of how they affect, and are in turn affected, by sea-ice algae. This project concentrates on first-year sea ice, forming and melting each year, creating unique and very dynamic habitats. The study will be structured by 4 main objectives: 1) how different algal species adapt to the seasonal changes in sea ice conditions, 2) how different methods to measure primary production (carbon dioxide drawdown, oxygen production and variable fluorescence) relate in sea ice and differ from sea water measurements, 3) how sympagic algae influence the physical structure of sea ice, 4) how sympagic algae contribute to organic matter cycling during ice melt. Due to expected changes in sea ice due to climate change, this study is uniquely positioned to provide needed data on short-term and seasonal processes. Results from this study will be useful to refine models of algal production in Antarctic and Arctic ecosystems, data not available to date as sea ice and its biogeochemistry are often poorly represented in earth system models. This project will also provide education for graduate and undergraduate students as well as material to develop class curriculum for middle-school students. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: Foraging Ecology and Physiology of the Leopard Seal
|
1643575 1644256 1644004 |
2023-05-12 | Costa, Daniel; Trumble, Stephen J; Kanatous, Shane | This research project is a multidisciplinary effort that brings together a diverse team of scientists from multiple institutions together to understand the foraging behavior and physiology of leopard seals and their role in the Southern Ocean food web. The project will examine the physiology and behavior of leopard seals to in an effort to determine their ability to respond to potential changes in their habitat and foraging areas. Using satellite tracking devices the team will examine the movement and diving behavior of leopard seals and couple this information with measurements of their physiological capacity. The project will determine whether leopard seals- who feed on diverse range of prey- are built differently than their deep diving relatives the Weddell and elephant seal who feed on fish and squid. The team will also determine whether leopard seals are operating at or near their physiological capability to determine how much, if any, ?reserve capacity? they might have to forage and live in changing environments. A better understanding of their home ranges, movement patterns, and general behavior will also be informative to help in managing human-leopard seal interactions. The highly visual nature of the data and analysis for this project lends itself to public and educational display and outreach, particularly as they relate to the changing Antarctic habitats. The project will use the research results to educate the public on the unique physiological and ecological adaptations to extreme environments seen in diving marine mammals, including adaptations to exercise under low oxygen conditions and energy utilization, which affect and dictate the lifestyle of these exceptional organisms. The results of the project will also contribute to the broader understanding that may enhance the aims of managing marine living resources. The leopard seal is an apex predator in the Antarctic ecosystem. This project seeks to better understand the ability of the leopard seal to cope with a changing environment. The project will first examine the foraging behavior and habitat utilization of leopard seals using satellite telemetry. Specifically, satellite telemetry tags will be used to obtain dive profiles and movement data for individuals across multiple years. Diet and trophic level positions across multiple temporal scales will then be determined from physiological samples (e.g., blood, vibrissae, blubber fatty acids, stable isotopes, fecal matter). Oceanographic data will be integrated with these measures to develop habitat models that will be used to assess habitat type, habitat utilization, habitat preference, and home range areas for individual animals. Diet composition for individual seals will be evaluated to determine whether specific animals are generalists or specialists. Second, the team will investigate the physiological adaptations that allow leopard seals to be apex predators and determine to what extent leopard seals are working at or near their physiological limit. Diving behavior and physiology of leopard seals will be evaluated (for instance the aerobic dive limit for individual animals and skeletal muscle adaptations will be determined for diving under hypoxic conditions). Data from time-depth recorders will be used to determine foraging strategies for individual seals, and these diving characteristics will be related to physiological variables (e.g., blood volume, muscle oxygen stores) to better understand the link between foraging behavior and physiology. The team will compare myoglobin storage in swimming muscles associated with both forelimb and hind limb propulsion and the use of anaerobic versus aerobic metabolic systems while foraging. | POLYGON((-66.534369 -52.962091,-65.3857434 -52.962091,-64.2371178 -52.962091,-63.0884922 -52.962091,-61.9398666 -52.962091,-60.791241 -52.962091,-59.6426154 -52.962091,-58.4939898 -52.962091,-57.3453642 -52.962091,-56.1967386 -52.962091,-55.048113 -52.962091,-55.048113 -54.530129,-55.048113 -56.098167000000004,-55.048113 -57.666205000000005,-55.048113 -59.234243,-55.048113 -60.802281,-55.048113 -62.370319,-55.048113 -63.938357,-55.048113 -65.506395,-55.048113 -67.074433,-55.048113 -68.642471,-56.1967386 -68.642471,-57.3453642 -68.642471,-58.4939898 -68.642471,-59.6426154 -68.642471,-60.791241 -68.642471,-61.9398666 -68.642471,-63.0884922 -68.642471,-64.2371178 -68.642471,-65.3857434 -68.642471,-66.534369 -68.642471,-66.534369 -67.074433,-66.534369 -65.506395,-66.534369 -63.938356999999996,-66.534369 -62.370319,-66.534369 -60.802281,-66.534369 -59.234243,-66.534369 -57.666205,-66.534369 -56.098167000000004,-66.534369 -54.530129,-66.534369 -52.962091)) | POINT(-60.791241 -60.802281) | false | false | ||||||||
Collaborative Research: Understanding the Massive Phytoplankton Blooms over the Australian-Antarctic Ridge
|
2135184 2135186 2135185 |
2022-09-30 | Arrigo, Kevin; Thomas, Leif N; Baumberger, Tamara; Resing, Joseph | No dataset link provided | Phytoplankton blooms throughout the world’s oceans support critical marine ecosystems and help remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Traditionally, it has been assumed that phytoplankton blooms in the Southern Ocean are stimulated by iron from either nearby land or sea-ice. However, recent work demonstrates that hydrothermal vents may be an additional iron source for phytoplankton blooms. This enhancement of phytoplankton productivity by different iron sources supports rich marine ecosystems and leads to the sequestration of carbon in the deep ocean. Our proposed work will uncover the importance of hydrothermal activity in stimulating a large phytoplankton bloom along the southern boundary of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current just north of the Ross Sea. It will also lead towards a better understanding of the overall impact of hydrothermal activity on the carbon cycle in the Southern Ocean, which appears to trigger local hotspots of biological activity which are a potential sink for atmospheric CO2. This project will encourage the participation of underrepresented groups in ocean sciences, as well as providing educational opportunities for high school and undergraduate students, through three different programs. Stanford University’s Summer Undergraduate Research in Geoscience and Engineering (SURGE) program provides undergraduates from different US universities and diverse cultural backgrounds the opportunity to spend a summer doing a research project at Stanford. The Stanford Earth Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SESUR) is for Stanford undergraduates who want to learn more about environmental science by performing original research. Finally, Stanford’s School of Earth, Energy, and Environmental Sciences High School Internship Program enables young scientists to serve as mentors, prepares high school students for college, and serves to strengthen the partnership between Stanford and local schools. Students present their results at the Fall AGU meeting as part of the AGU Bright STaRS program. This project will form the basis of at least two PhD dissertations. The Stanford student will participate in Stanford’s Woods Institute Rising Environmental Leaders Program (RELP), a year-round program that helps graduate students hone their leadership and communication skills to maximize the impact of their research. The graduate student will also participate in Stanford’s Grant Writing Academy where they will receive training in developing and articulating research strategies to tackle important scientific questions. This interdisciplinary program combines satellite and ship-based measurements of a large poorly understood phytoplankton bloom (the AAR bloom) in the northwestern Ross Sea sector of the Southern Ocean with a detailed modeling study of the physical processes linking deep dissolved iron (DFe) reservoirs to the surface phytoplankton bloom. Prior to the cruise, we will implement a numerical model (CROCO) for our study region so that we can better understand the circulation, plumes, turbulence, fronts, and eddy field around the AAR bloom and how they transport and mix hydrothermally produced DFe vertically. Post cruise, observations of the vertical distribution of 3He (combined with DMn and DFe), will be used as initial conditions for a passive tracer in the model, and tracer dispersal will be assessed to better quantify the role of the various turbulent processes in upwelling DFe-rich waters to the upper ocean. The satellite-based component of the program will characterize the broader sampling region before, during, and after our cruise. During the cruise, our automated software system at Stanford University will download and process images of sea ice concentration, Chl-a concentration, sea surface temperature (SST), and sea surface height (SSH) and send them electronically to the ship. Operationally, our goal is to use all available satellite data and preliminary model results to target shipboard sampling both geographically and temporally to optimize sampling of the AAR bloom. We will use available BGC-Argo float data to help characterize the AAR bloom. In collaboration with SOCCOM, we will deploy additional BGC-Argo floats (if available) during our transit through the study area to allow us to better characterize the bloom. The centerpiece of our program will be a 40-day process study cruise in austral summer. The cruise will consist of an initial “radiator” pattern of hydrographic surveys/sections along the AAR followed by CTDs to selected submarine volcanoes. When/if eddies are identified, they will be sampled either during or after the initial surveys. The radiator pattern, or parts thereof, will be repeated 2-3 times. Hydrographic survey stations will include vertical profiles of temperature, salinity, oxygen, oxidation-reduction potential, light scatter, and PAR (400-700 nm). Samples will be collected for trace metals, ligands, 3He, and total suspended matter. Where intense hydrothermal activity is identified, samples for pH and total CO2 will also be collected to characterize the hydrothermal system. Water samples will be collected for characterization of macronutrients, and phytoplankton physiology, abundance, species composition, and size. During transits, we will continuously measure atmospheric conditions, current speed and direction, and surface SST, salinity, pCO2, and fluorescence from the ship’s systems to provide detailed maps of these parameters. The ship will be used as a platform for conducting phytoplankton DFe bioassay experiments at key stations throughout the study region both inside and outside the bloom. We will also perform detailed comparisons of algal taxonomic composition, physiology, and size structure inside and outside the bloom to determine the potential importance of each community on local biogeochemistry. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((155 -61,156.5 -61,158 -61,159.5 -61,161 -61,162.5 -61,164 -61,165.5 -61,167 -61,168.5 -61,170 -61,170 -61.2,170 -61.4,170 -61.6,170 -61.8,170 -62,170 -62.2,170 -62.4,170 -62.6,170 -62.8,170 -63,168.5 -63,167 -63,165.5 -63,164 -63,162.5 -63,161 -63,159.5 -63,158 -63,156.5 -63,155 -63,155 -62.8,155 -62.6,155 -62.4,155 -62.2,155 -62,155 -61.8,155 -61.6,155 -61.4,155 -61.2,155 -61)) | POINT(162.5 -62) | false | false | |||||||
Move, Adapt, or Change: Examining the Adaptive Capacity of a Southern Ocean Apex Predator, the Leopard Seal
|
2146068 |
2022-09-12 | Kienle, Sarah; Trumble, Stephen J; Bonin, Carolina | No dataset link provided | The leopard seal (Hydrurga leptonyx) is an enigmatic apex predator in the rapidly changing Southern Ocean. As top predators, leopard seals play a disproportionately large role in ecosystem functioning and act as sentinel species that can track habitat changes. How leopard seals respond to a warming environment depends on their adaptive capacity, that is a species’ ability to cope with environmental change. However, leopard seals are one of the least studied apex predators on Earth, hindering our ability to predict how the species is responding to polar environmental changes. Investigating the adaptability of Antarctic biota in a changing system aligns with NSF’s Strategic Vision for Investments in Antarctic and Southern Ocean Research. This research, which is tightly integrated with educational and outreach activities, will increase diversity in STEM and Antarctic science by recruiting students from historically underrepresented groups in STEM and providing training, mentoring, and educational opportunities at an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution and a Historically Black Colleges and Universities campus. This project will improve STEM education and science literacy via museum collaborations, creation of informational videos and original artwork depicting the research. The proposal supports data and sample reuse in polar research and long-term reuse of scientific data, thereby maximizing NSF’s investment in previous field research and reducing operational costs. The researchers will investigate leopard seals adaptive capacity to the warming Southern Ocean by quantifying their ability to move (dispersal ability), adapt (genetic diversity), and change (plasticity). Aim 1 of the research will determine leopard seals’ dispersal ability by assessing their distribution and movement patterns. Aim 2 will quantify genetic diversity by analyzing genetic variability and population structure and Aim 3 will examine phenotypic plasticity by evaluating changes in their ecological niche and physiological responses. The international, multidisciplinary team will analyze existing data (e.g., photographs, census data, life history data, tissue samples, body morphometrics) collected from leopard seals across the Southern Ocean over the last decade. Additionally, land- and ship-based field efforts will generate comparable data from unsampled regions in the Southern Ocean. The research project will analyze these historical and contemporary datasets to evaluate the adaptive capacity of leopard seals against the rapidly warming Southern Ocean. This research is significant because changes in the distribution, genetic diversity, and ecophysiology of leopard seals can dramatically restructure polar and subpolar communities. Further, the research will expand understanding of leopard seals’ ecological role, likely characterizing the species as flexible polar and subpolar predators throughout the Southern Hemisphere. The findings of this research will be relevant for use in ecosystem-based management decisions—including the design of Marine Protected Areas— across three continents. This study will highlight intrinsic traits that determine species’ adaptive capacity, as well as showcase the dynamic links between polar and subpolar ecosystems. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | None | None | false | false | |||||||
ANT LIA: Do Molecular Data Support High Endemism and Divergent Evolution of Antarctic Marine Nematodes and their Host-associated Microbiomes?
|
2132641 |
2022-08-30 | Bik, Holly | No dataset link provided | Non-technical Abstract: The long isolation and unique biodiversity of the Southern Ocean represents an important case study region for understanding the evolution and ecology of populations. This study uses modern -omics approaches to evaluate the biodiversity, evolution, and ecology of Antarctic marine nematodes and their host-associated microbiomes from a variety of habitats collected at different depths. The results are producing an important baseline dataset of Antarctic meiofaunal diversity. All genomic resources generated in this project will be publicly accessible as open-source datasets with the potential for long-term scientific reuse. This project supports diverse researchers from underrepresented backgrounds and produces a suite of Antarctic-focused digital public outreach products. Technical Abstract: Nematode worms are abundant and ubiquitous in marine sediment habitats worldwide, performing key functions such as nutrient cycling and sediment stability. However, study of this phylum suffers from a perpetual and severe taxonomic deficit, with less than 5,000 formally described marine species. Fauna from the Southern Ocean are especially poorly studied due to limited sampling and the general inaccessibility of the Antarctic benthos. This study is providing the first large-scale molecular-based investigation from marine nematodes in the Eastern Antarctic continental shelf, providing an important comparative dataset for the existing body of historical (morphological) taxonomic studies. This project uses a combination of classical taxonomy (microscopy) and modern -omics tools to achieve three overarching aims: 1) determine if molecular data supports high biodiversity and endemism of benthic meiofauna in Antarctic benthic ecosystems; 2) determine the proportion of marine nematode species that have a deep-sea versus shallow-water evolutionary origin on the Antarctic shelf, and assess patterns of cryptic speciation in the Southern Ocean; and 3) determine the most important drivers of the host-associated microbiome in Antarctic marine nematodes. This project is designed to rapidly advance knowledge of the evolutionary origins of Antarctic meiofauna, provide insight on population-level patterns within key indicator genera, and elucidate the potential ecological and environmental factors which may influence microbiome patterns. Broader Impacts activities include an intensive cruise- and land-based outreach program focusing on social media engagement and digital outreach products, raising awareness of Antarctic marine ecosystems and understudied microbial-animal relationships. The diverse research team includes female scientists, first-generation college students, and Latinx trainees. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -62,180 -64,180 -66,180 -68,180 -70,180 -72,180 -74,180 -76,180 -78,180 -80,144 -80,108 -80,72 -80,36 -80,0 -80,-36 -80,-72 -80,-108 -80,-144 -80,-180 -80,-180 -78,-180 -76,-180 -74,-180 -72,-180 -70,-180 -68,-180 -66,-180 -64,-180 -62,-180 -60)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: Linking Predator Behavior and Resource Distributions: Penguin-directed Exploration of an Ecological Hotspot
|
1744885 |
2022-07-18 | Moline, Mark; Benoit-Bird, Kelly; Cimino, Megan | No dataset link provided | This research project will use specially designed autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to investigate interactions between Adelie and Gentoo penguins (the predators) and their primary food source, Antarctic krill (prey). While it has long been known that penguins feed on krill, details about how they search for food and target individual prey items is less well understood. Krill aggregate in large swarms, and the size or the depth of these swarms may influence the feeding behavior of penguins. Similarly, penguin feeding behaviors may differ based on characteristics of the environment, krill swarms, and the presence of other prey and predator species. This project will use specialized smart AUVs to simultaneously collect high-resolution observations of penguins, their prey, and environmental conditions. Data will shed light on strategies used by penguins prove foraging success during the critical summer chick-rearing period. This will improve predictions of how penguin populations may respond to changing environmental conditions in the rapidly warming Western Antarctic Peninsula region. Greater understanding of how individual behaviors shape food web structure can also inform conservation and management efforts in other marine ecosystems. This project has a robust public education and outreach plan linked with the Birch and Monterey Bay Aquariums. Previous studies have shown that sub-mesoscale variability (1-10 km) in Antarctic krill densities and structure impact the foraging behavior of air-breathing predators. However, there is little understanding of how krill aggregation characteristics are linked to abundance on fine spatial scales, how these patterns are influenced by the habitat, or how prey characteristics influences the foraging behavior of predators. These data gaps remain because it is extremely challenging to collect detailed data on predators and prey simultaneously at the scale of an individual krill patch and single foraging event. Building on previously successful efforts, this project will integrate echosounders into autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), so that oceanographic variables and multi-frequency acoustic scattering from both prey and penguins can be collected simultaneously. This will allow for quantification of the environment at the scale of individual foraging events made by penguins during the critical 50+ day chick-rearing period. Work will be centered near Palmer Station, where long-term studies have provided significant insight into predator and prey population trends. The new data to be collected by this project will test hypotheses about how penguin prey selection and foraging behaviors are influenced by physical and biological features of their ocean habitat at extremely fine scale. By addressing the dynamic relationship between individual penguins, their prey, and habitat at the scale of individual foraging events, this study will begin to reveal the important processes regulating resource availability and identify what makes this region a profitable foraging habitat and breeding location. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-64.643 -64.703149,-64.5388975 -64.703149,-64.43479500000001 -64.703149,-64.3306925 -64.703149,-64.22659 -64.703149,-64.1224875 -64.703149,-64.018385 -64.703149,-63.9142825 -64.703149,-63.81018 -64.703149,-63.706077500000006 -64.703149,-63.601975 -64.703149,-63.601975 -64.7258003,-63.601975 -64.7484516,-63.601975 -64.77110289999999,-63.601975 -64.7937542,-63.601975 -64.8164055,-63.601975 -64.8390568,-63.601975 -64.86170809999999,-63.601975 -64.8843594,-63.601975 -64.9070107,-63.601975 -64.929662,-63.706077500000006 -64.929662,-63.81018 -64.929662,-63.9142825 -64.929662,-64.018385 -64.929662,-64.1224875 -64.929662,-64.22659 -64.929662,-64.3306925 -64.929662,-64.43479500000001 -64.929662,-64.5388975 -64.929662,-64.643 -64.929662,-64.643 -64.9070107,-64.643 -64.8843594,-64.643 -64.86170809999999,-64.643 -64.8390568,-64.643 -64.8164055,-64.643 -64.7937542,-64.643 -64.77110289999999,-64.643 -64.7484516,-64.643 -64.7258003,-64.643 -64.703149)) | POINT(-64.1224875 -64.8164055) | false | false | |||||||
Foraging Ecology of Crabeater Seals (Lobodon Carcinophagus)
|
0003956 9981683 |
2022-06-29 | Burns, Jennifer; Costa, Daniel |
|
This collaborative study between the University of California, Santa Cruz, Duke University, the University of South Florida, the University of Alaska-Anchorage, and the University of California, San Diego will examine the identification of biological and physical features associated with the abundance and distribution of individual Antarctic predators; the identification and characterization of biological 'hot spots' within the Western Antarctic Peninsula; and the development of temporally and spatially explicit models of krill consumption within the WAP by vertebrate predators. It is one of several data synthesis and modeling components that use the data obtained in the course of the field work of the Southern Ocean Global Ocean Ecosystems Dynamics (SO GLOBEC) experiment.<br/>SO-Globec is a multidisciplinary effort focused on understanding the physical and biological factors that influence growth, reproduction, recruitment and survival of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba). The program uses a multi-trophic level approach that includes the predators and competitors of Antarctic krill, represented by other zooplankton, fish, penguins, seals, and cetaceans. It is currently in a synthesis and modeling phase. This collaborative project is concerned with understanding how predators utilize 'hot spots', i.e. locally intense areas of biological productivity, and how 'hot spots' might temporally and spatially structure krill predation rates, and will be integrated with other synthesis and modeling studies that deal with the hydrography primary production, and krill dynamics. | POLYGON((-70 -65,-69.5 -65,-69 -65,-68.5 -65,-68 -65,-67.5 -65,-67 -65,-66.5 -65,-66 -65,-65.5 -65,-65 -65,-65 -65.5,-65 -66,-65 -66.5,-65 -67,-65 -67.5,-65 -68,-65 -68.5,-65 -69,-65 -69.5,-65 -70,-65.5 -70,-66 -70,-66.5 -70,-67 -70,-67.5 -70,-68 -70,-68.5 -70,-69 -70,-69.5 -70,-70 -70,-70 -69.5,-70 -69,-70 -68.5,-70 -68,-70 -67.5,-70 -67,-70 -66.5,-70 -66,-70 -65.5,-70 -65)) | POINT(-67.5 -67.5) | false | false | |||||||
Middle-Late Devonian Vertebrates of Antarctica
|
1543367 |
2022-06-17 | Shubin, Neil; Daeschler, Edward B |
|
This research will provide new insights into the relationships and history of sharks, fish and limbed animals. Understanding these relationships forms the backbone for both basic and applied science because fish often serve as models of human traits and diseases. Some of the main lines of evidence for these relationships come from fossils in rocks over 380 million years old that were originally deposited as ancient rivers and streams. Because rocks of this type and age are abundantly exposed along a number of the dry valleys and mountains of Antarctica, the investigation of these areas holds exceptional promise for discoveries that can have a broad impact. The fieldwork will involve geological mapping and assessment of the rocks with detailed reconnaissance for the fossils that they may hold. Fossil discoveries form the backbone for public communication of the methods and results of scientific research-- these studies will be used as vehicles for training of students at multiple levels as well as communication of science to the broader non-science citizen base. The discovery, description, and analysis of Middle to Late Devonian (390-355 Million years ago) vertebrates and depositional environments provide important data on the emergence of novel anatomical structures, faunas, and habitats during a critical interval in the history of life and earth. Biological innovation during this time includes the early evolution of freshwater fish, the origins of major groups of vertebrates (e.g., sharks, lobe and ray-finned fish, tetrapods), and the expansion and elaboration of non-marine ecosystems. Accordingly, expanding our knowledge of vertebrate diversity during the Middle and Late Devonian will provide new evidence on the relationships of the major groups of vertebrates, the assembly of novelties that ultimately enabled tetrapods to invade land, the origin and early evolution of sharks and their relatives, and the assembly and expansion of non-marine ecosystems generally. The Aztec Siltstone of Antarctica Middle-Late Devonian; Givetian-Frasnian Stages) has exceptional potential to produce new paleontological evidence of these events and to illuminate the temporal, ecological, and geographic context in which they occurred. It is essentially fossiliferous throughout its known exposure range, something that is rare for Middle-Late Devonian non-marine rocks anywhere in the world. In addition, fine-grained meandering stream deposits are abundantly exposed in the Aztec Siltstone and are recognized as an important locus for the discovery of well-preserved Devonian fish, including stem tetrapods and their relatives. Given the exceedingly fossiliferous nature of the Aztec Siltstone, the large number of taxa known only from partial material, and the amount of promising exposure yet to be worked, a dedicated reconnaissance, collection, and research effort is designed to recover important new fossil material and embed it in a stratigraphic and sedimentological context. The first major objective of this study is the recovery, preparation, and description of Middle-Late Devonian fossil taxa. Ensuing investigation of the phylogenetic affinities, taphonomic occurrence, and stratigraphic position of fossil assemblages will allow both local and global comparisons of biotic diversity. These analyses will inform: 1) higher level phylogenetic hypotheses of jawed vertebrates, 2) biostratigraphic and biogeographic analysis of the distribution of the Middle-Late Devonian fish, and 3) paleobiological investigation of the elaboration of terrestrial and freshwater habitats. The broader impacts are derived from the utility of paleontology and Antarctic expeditionary science as educational tools with powerful narratives. Specific goals include affiliations with local urban secondary schools (using established relationships for broadening participation) and collegiate and graduate training. Wider dissemination of knowledge to the general public is a direct product of ongoing interactions with national and international media (print, television, internet). | POLYGON((158.3 -77.5,158.54000000000002 -77.5,158.78 -77.5,159.02 -77.5,159.26 -77.5,159.5 -77.5,159.74 -77.5,159.98 -77.5,160.22 -77.5,160.45999999999998 -77.5,160.7 -77.5,160.7 -77.605,160.7 -77.71,160.7 -77.815,160.7 -77.92,160.7 -78.025,160.7 -78.13,160.7 -78.235,160.7 -78.34,160.7 -78.445,160.7 -78.55,160.45999999999998 -78.55,160.22 -78.55,159.98 -78.55,159.74 -78.55,159.5 -78.55,159.26 -78.55,159.02 -78.55,158.78 -78.55,158.54000000000002 -78.55,158.3 -78.55,158.3 -78.445,158.3 -78.34,158.3 -78.235,158.3 -78.13,158.3 -78.025,158.3 -77.92,158.3 -77.815,158.3 -77.71,158.3 -77.605,158.3 -77.5)) | POINT(159.5 -78.025) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Proposal: Miocene Climate Extremes: A Ross Sea Perspective from IODP Expedition 374 and DSDP Leg 28 Marine Sediments
|
1947558 1947657 1947646 |
2022-06-08 | Shevenell, Amelia | No dataset link provided | Nontechnical abstract Presently, Antarctica’s glaciers are melting as Earth’s atmosphere and the Southern Ocean warm. Not much is known about how Antarctica’s ice sheets might respond to ongoing and future warming, but such knowledge is important because Antarctica’s ice sheets might raise global sea levels significantly with continued melting. Over time, mud accumulates on the sea floor around Antarctica that is composed of the skeletons and debris of microscopic marine organisms and sediment from the adjacent continent. As this mud is deposited, it creates a record of past environmental and ecological changes, including ocean depth, glacier advance and retreat, ocean temperature, ocean circulation, marine ecosystems, ocean chemistry, and continental weathering. Scientists interested in understanding how Antarctica’s glaciers and ice sheets might respond to ongoing warming can use a variety of physical, biological, and chemical analyses of these mud archives to determine how long ago the mud was deposited and how the ice sheets, oceans, and marine ecosystems responded during intervals in the past when Earth’s climate was warmer. In this project, researchers from the University of South Florida, University of Massachusetts, and Northern Illinois University will reconstruct the depth, ocean temperature, weathering and nutrient input, and marine ecosystems in the central Ross Sea from ~17 to 13 million years ago, when the warm Miocene Climate Optimum transitioned to a cooler interval with more extensive ice sheets. Record will be generated from new sediments recovered during the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 374 and legacy sequences recovered in the 1970’s during the Deep Sea Drilling Program. Results will be integrated into ice sheet and climate models to improve the accuracy of predictions. The research provides experience for three graduate students and seven undergraduate students via a multi-institutional REU program focused on increasing diversity in Antarctic Earth Sciences. Technical Abstract Deep-sea sediments reveal that the Miocene Climatic Optimum (MCO) was the warmest climate interval of the last ~20 Ma, was associated with global carbon cycle changes and ice growth, and immediately preceded the Middle Miocene Climate Transition (MMCT; ~14 Ma), one of three major intervals of Antarctic ice expansion and global cooling. Ice-proximal studies are required to assess: where and when ice grew, ice sheet extent, continental shelf geometry, high-latitude heat and moisture supply, oceanic and/or atmospheric temperature influence on ice dynamics, regional sea ice extent, meltwater input, and regions of bottom water formation. Existing studies indicate that ice expanded beyond the Transantarctic Mountains and onto the prograding Ross Sea continental shelf multiple times between ~17 and 13.5 Ma. However, these records are either too ice-proximal/terrestrial to adequately assess ocean-ice interactions or under-studied. To address this data gap, this work will: 1) generate micropaleontologic and geochemical records of oceanic and atmospheric temperature, water depth, ocean circulation, and paleoproductivity from existing Ross Sea marine sedimentary sequences, and 2) use these proxy records to test the hypothesis that dynamic glacial expansion in the Ross Sea sector during the MCO was driven by heat and moisture transport to the high latitudes during an interval of enhanced climate sensitivity. Downcore geochemical and micropaleontologic studies will focus on an expanded (120 m/my) early to middle Miocene (~17-16 Ma) diatom-bearing/rich mudstone/diatomite unit from IODP Site U1521, drilled on the Ross Sea continental shelf. A hiatus (~16-14.6 Ma) suggests ice expansion during the MCO, followed by diamictite to mudstone unit indicative of slight retreat (14.6 -14 Ma) immediately preceding the MMCT. Data from Site U1521 will be integrated with foraminiferal geochemical and micropaleontologic data from DSDP Leg 28 (1972/73) and RISP J-9 (1978-79) to develop a MCO to late Miocene regional view of ocean-ice sheet interactions using legacy core material previously processed for foraminifera. This integrated record will: 1) document the timing and extent of glacial advances and retreats across the prograding Ross Sea shelf during the middle and late Miocene, 2) provide orbital-scale paleotemperature reconstructions (TEX86, Mg/Ca, δ18O, MBT/CBT) to establish atmosphere-ocean-ice interactions during an extreme high-latitude warm interval, and 3) provide orbital-scale nutrient/paleoproductivity, ocean circulation, and paleoenvironmental data required to assess climate feedbacks associated with Miocene Antarctic ice sheet and global climate system development. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -72.5,-177.6 -72.5,-175.2 -72.5,-172.8 -72.5,-170.4 -72.5,-168 -72.5,-165.6 -72.5,-163.2 -72.5,-160.8 -72.5,-158.4 -72.5,-156 -72.5,-156 -73.15,-156 -73.8,-156 -74.45,-156 -75.1,-156 -75.75,-156 -76.4,-156 -77.05,-156 -77.7,-156 -78.35,-156 -79,-158.4 -79,-160.8 -79,-163.2 -79,-165.6 -79,-168 -79,-170.4 -79,-172.8 -79,-175.2 -79,-177.6 -79,180 -79,178.4 -79,176.8 -79,175.2 -79,173.6 -79,172 -79,170.4 -79,168.8 -79,167.2 -79,165.6 -79,164 -79,164 -78.35,164 -77.7,164 -77.05,164 -76.4,164 -75.75,164 -75.1,164 -74.45,164 -73.8,164 -73.15,164 -72.5,165.6 -72.5,167.2 -72.5,168.8 -72.5,170.4 -72.5,172 -72.5,173.6 -72.5,175.2 -72.5,176.8 -72.5,178.4 -72.5,-180 -72.5)) | POINT(-176 -75.75) | false | false | |||||||
ANT LIA - Viral Ecogenomics of the Southern Ocean: Unifying Omics and Ecological Networks to Advance our Understanding of Antarctic Microbial Ecosystem Function
|
2055455 |
2022-06-03 | Duhaime, Melissa; Zaman, Luis | No dataset link provided | Part 1: Non-technical description: It is well known that the Southern Ocean plays an important role in global carbon cycling and also receives a disproportionately large influence of climate change. The role of marine viruses on ocean productivity is largely understudied, especially in this global region. This team proposes to use combination of genomics, flow cytometry, and network modeling to test the hypothesis that viral biogeography, infection networks, and viral impacts on microbial metabolism can explain variations in net community production (NCP) and carbon cycling in the Southern Ocean. The project includes the training of a postdoctoral scholar, graduate students and undergraduate students. It also includes the development of a new Polar Sci ReachOut program in partnership with the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History especially targeted to middle-school students and teachers and the general public. The team will also produce a Science for Tomorrow (SFT) program for use in middle schools in metro-Detroit communities and lead a summer Research Experience for Teachers (RET) fellows. Part 2: Technical description: The study will leverage hundreds of existing samples collected for microbes and viruses from the Antarctic Circumpolar Expedition (ACE). These samples provide the first contiguous survey of viral diversity and microbial communities around Antarctica. Viral networks are being studied in the context of biogeochemical data to model community networks and predict net community production (NCP), which will provide a way to evaluate the role of viruses in Southern Ocean carbon cycling. Using cutting edge molecular and flow cytometry approaches, this project addresses the following questions: 1) How/why are Southern Ocean viral populations distributed across environmental gradients? 2a) Do viruses interfere with "keystone" metabolic pathways and biogeochemical processes of microbial communities in the Southern Ocean? 2b) Does nutrient availability or other environmental variables drive changes in virus-microbe infection networks in the Southern Ocean? Results will be used to develop and evaluate generative models of NCP predictions that incorporate the importance of viral traits and virus-host interactions. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
CAREER: Using Otolith Chemistry to Reveal the Life History of Antarctic Toothfish in the Ross Sea, Antarctica: Testing Fisheries and Climate Change Impacts on a Top Fish Predator
|
2141555 |
2022-05-27 | Brooks, Cassandra | No dataset link provided | The Ross Sea, Antarctica, is one of the last large intact marine ecosystems left in the world, yet is facing increasing pressure from commercial fisheries and environmental change. It is the most productive stretch of the Southern Ocean, supporting an array of marine life, including Antarctic toothfish – the region’s top fish predator. While a commercial fishery for toothfish continues to grow in the Ross Sea, fundamental knowledge gaps remain regarding toothfish ecology and the impacts of toothfish fishing on the broader Ross Sea ecosystem. Recognizing the global value of the Ross Sea, a large (>2 million km2) marine protected area was adopted by the multi-national Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources in 2016. This research will fill a critical gap in the knowledge of Antarctic toothfish and deepen understanding of biological-physical interactions for fish ecology, while contributing to knowledge of impacts of fishing and environmental change on the Ross Sea system. This work will further provide innovative tools for studying connectivity among geographically distinct fish populations and for synthesizing and assessing the efficacy of a large-scale marine protected area. In developing an integrated research and education program in engaged scholarship, this project seeks to train the next generation of scholars to engage across the science-policy-public interface, engage with Southern Ocean stakeholders throughout the research process, and to deepen the public’s appreciation of the Antarctic. A major research priority among Ross Sea scientists is to better understand the life history of the Antarctic toothfish and test the efficacy of the Ross Sea Marine Protected Area (MPA) in protecting against the impacts of overfishing and climate change. Like growth rings of a tree, fish ear bones, called otoliths, develop annual layers of calcium carbonate that incorporates elements from their environment. Otoliths offer information on the fish’s growth and the surrounding ocean conditions. Hypothesizing that much of the Antarctic toothfish life cycle is structured by ocean circulation, this research employs a multi-disciplinary approach combining age and growth work with otolith chemistry testing, while also utilizing GIS mapping. The project will measure life history parameters as well as trace elements and stable isotopes in otoliths in three distinct sets collected over the last four decades in the Ross Sea. The information will be used to quantify the transport pathways Antarctic toothfish use across their life history, and across time, in the Ross Sea. The project will assess if toothfish populations from the Ross Sea are connected more widely across the Antarctic. By comparing life history and otolith chemistry data across time, the researchers will assess change in life history parameters and spatial dynamics and seek to infer if these changes are driven by fishing or climate change. Spatially mapping of these data will allow an assessment of the efficacy of the Ross Sea MPA in protecting toothfish and where further protections might be needed. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -71.5,-177.1 -71.5,-174.2 -71.5,-171.3 -71.5,-168.4 -71.5,-165.5 -71.5,-162.6 -71.5,-159.7 -71.5,-156.8 -71.5,-153.9 -71.5,-151 -71.5,-151 -72.25,-151 -73,-151 -73.75,-151 -74.5,-151 -75.25,-151 -76,-151 -76.75,-151 -77.5,-151 -78.25,-151 -79,-153.9 -79,-156.8 -79,-159.7 -79,-162.6 -79,-165.5 -79,-168.4 -79,-171.3 -79,-174.2 -79,-177.1 -79,180 -79,178.1 -79,176.2 -79,174.3 -79,172.4 -79,170.5 -79,168.6 -79,166.7 -79,164.8 -79,162.9 -79,161 -79,161 -78.25,161 -77.5,161 -76.75,161 -76,161 -75.25,161 -74.5,161 -73.75,161 -73,161 -72.25,161 -71.5,162.9 -71.5,164.8 -71.5,166.7 -71.5,168.6 -71.5,170.5 -71.5,172.4 -71.5,174.3 -71.5,176.2 -71.5,178.1 -71.5,-180 -71.5)) | POINT(-175 -75.25) | false | false | |||||||
The Role of the Epigenetic Mechanism, DNA Methylation, in the Tolerance and Resistance of Antarctic Pteropods to Ocean Acidification and Warming
|
2053726 |
2022-04-14 | Hofmann, Gretchen |
|
Part 1: Non-technical description: With support from the Office of Polar Programs, this project will evaluate how an important part of the food web in the coastal ocean of Antarctica will respond to climate change. The focal study organism in the plankton is a shelled mollusk, the Antarctic pteropod, Limacina helicina antarctica, an Southern Ocean organism that this known to respond to climate driven changes in ocean acidification and ocean warming. Ocean acidification, the lowering of ocean pH via the absorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide in the surface of the ocean, is a change in the ocean that is expected to cross deleterious thresholds of pH within decades. This study will improve understanding of how pteropods will respond, which will provide insight into predicting the resilience of the Antarctic marine ecosystem during future changes, one of the planet’s last marine wildernesses. The project will use tools of molecular biology to examine specifically how gene expression is modulated in the pteropods, and further, how the changes and regulation of genes act to resist the stress of low pH and high temperature. In addition, this project supports the training of Ph.D. graduate students and advances the goal of inclusive excellence in STEM and in marine sciences, in particular. The students involved in this project are from groups traditionally under-represented in marine science including first-generation college students. Overall, the project contributes to the development of the U.S. work force and contributes to diversity and inclusive excellence in the geosciences. Part 2: Technical description: The overarching goal of this project is to investigate the molecular response of the Antarctic thecosome pteropod, Limacina helicina antarctica to ocean acidification (OA) and ocean warming. The project will investigate changes in the epigenome of juvenile L. h. antarctica, by assessing the dynamics of DNA methylation in response to three scenarios of environmental conditions that were simulated in laboratory mesocosm CO2 experiments: (1) present-day pCO2 conditions for summer and winter, (2) future ocean acidification expected within 10-15 years, and (3) a multiple stressor experiment to investigate synergistic interaction of OA and high temperature stress. Recent lab-based mesocosm experiment research showed significant changes in the dynamics of global DNA methylation in the pteropod genome, along with variation in gene expression in response to abiotic changes. Thus, it is clear that juvenile L. h. antarctica are capable of mounting a substantial epigenetic response to ocean acidification. However, it is not known how DNA methylation, as an epigenetic process, is modulating changes in the transcriptome. In order to address this gap in the epigenetic knowledge regarding pteropods, the project will use next-generation sequencing approaches (e.g., RNA sequencing and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing) to integrate changes in methylation status with changes in gene expression in juvenile pteropods. Overall, this investigation is an important step in exploring environmental transcriptomics and phenotypic plasticity of an ecologically important member of Southern Ocean macrozoooplankton in response to anthropogenic climate change. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((163 -77,163.4 -77,163.8 -77,164.2 -77,164.6 -77,165 -77,165.4 -77,165.8 -77,166.2 -77,166.6 -77,167 -77,167 -77.1,167 -77.2,167 -77.3,167 -77.4,167 -77.5,167 -77.6,167 -77.7,167 -77.8,167 -77.9,167 -78,166.6 -78,166.2 -78,165.8 -78,165.4 -78,165 -78,164.6 -78,164.2 -78,163.8 -78,163.4 -78,163 -78,163 -77.9,163 -77.8,163 -77.7,163 -77.6,163 -77.5,163 -77.4,163 -77.3,163 -77.2,163 -77.1,163 -77)) | POINT(165 -77.5) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: Have transantarctic dispersal corridors impacted Antarctic marine biodiversity?
|
1916665 1916661 2225144 |
2021-09-22 | Halanych, Kenneth; Mahon, Andrew | No dataset link provided | Antarctica is among the most rapidly warming places on the planet, and some reports suggest the Antarctic environment is approaching, or possibly beyond, the tipping point for ice shelf collapse. The loss of ice around Antarctica is dramatically changing habitat availability for marine fauna, particularly benthic marine invertebrate species. Building on past studies, this research will provide insights into how changing climate impacts species distribution and community structure. Geological data suggests that during periods when ice extent was much reduced relative to modern levels, marine seaways connected the Ross and Weddell Seas on either side of Antarctica. However, most theories about the origins of current marine invertebrate distribution patterns fail to consider this transantarctic connection. This research will use molecular genomic tools to probe the DNA of Antarctic marine invertebrates and explore alternative hypotheses about factors that may have shaped current patterns of animal biodiversity in the Southern Ocean. Research will inform predictions about how species distributions may change as Antarctic ice sheets continue to deteriorate and provide critical information on how organisms adjust their ranges in response to environmental change. This work includes several specific outreach activities including presentations in K-8 classrooms, several short-format videos on Antarctic genomics and field work, and two 3-day workshops on bioinformatics approaches. A minimum of 4 graduate students, a postdoc and several undergraduates will also be trained during this project. The overarching goal of this research is to understand environmental factors that have shaped patterns of present-day diversity in Antarctic benthic marine invertebrates. Evidence from sediment cores and modeling suggests ice shelf collapses have occurred multiple times in the last few million years. During these periods, transantarctic seaways connected the Ross and Weddell Seas. This research will assess whether the presence of transantarctic waterways helps explain observed similarities between the Ross and Weddell Seas benthic marine invertebrate fauna better than other current hypotheses (e.g., dispersal by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, or expansion from common glacial refugia). Seven Antarctic benthic invertebrate taxa will be targeted to test alternative hypothesis about the origins of population genetic structure in the Southern Ocean using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers that sample thousands of loci across the genome. Additionally, research will test the current paradigm that divergence between closely related, often cryptic, species is the result of population bottlenecks caused by glaciation. Specifically, SNP data will be mapped on to draft genomes of three of our target taxa to assess the degree of genetic divergence and look for signs of selection. Research findings may be applicable to other marine ecosystems around the planet. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-72 -61,-69.8 -61,-67.6 -61,-65.4 -61,-63.2 -61,-61 -61,-58.8 -61,-56.6 -61,-54.4 -61,-52.2 -61,-50 -61,-50 -61.8,-50 -62.6,-50 -63.4,-50 -64.2,-50 -65,-50 -65.8,-50 -66.6,-50 -67.4,-50 -68.2,-50 -69,-52.2 -69,-54.4 -69,-56.6 -69,-58.8 -69,-61 -69,-63.2 -69,-65.4 -69,-67.6 -69,-69.8 -69,-72 -69,-72 -68.2,-72 -67.4,-72 -66.6,-72 -65.8,-72 -65,-72 -64.2,-72 -63.4,-72 -62.6,-72 -61.8,-72 -61)) | POINT(-61 -65) | false | false | |||||||
CAREER: Development of Unmanned Ground Vehicles for Assessing the Health of Secluded Ecosystems (ECHO)
|
2046437 |
2021-08-16 | Zitterbart, Daniel | No dataset link provided | Part I: Non-technical description: Understanding human-induced changes on biodiversity is one of the most important scientific challenges we face today. This is especially true for marine environments that are home to much of the world’s biomass and biodiversity. A particularly effective approach to investigate the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems is to monitor top-predator populations such as seabirds or marine mammals. The food web in the Southern Ocean in relatively small and involves few species, therefore climate-induced variations at the prey species level directly affect the predator species level. For example, seabirds, like penguins, are ideal to detect and study these ecosystem changes. This study combines traditional methods to study emperor penguin population dynamics with the use of an autonomous vehicle to conduct the population dynamic measurements with less impact and higher accuracy. This project leverages an existing long-term emperor penguin observatory at the Atka Bay colony which hosts penguins living in the Weddell sea and the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean. The study will kickstart the collection of a multi-decadal data set in an area of the Southern Ocean that has been understudied. It will fill important gaps in ecological knowledge on the state of the Emperor penguin and its adaptive capabilities within a changing world. Finally, the project supports NSF goals of training new generations of scientists through collaborative training of undergraduate students and the creation of a new class on robotics for ecosystem study. Emperor penguins are an iconic species that few people will ever see in the wild. Through the technology developed in this proposal, the public can be immersed in real-time into the life of an emperor penguin colony. Public outreach will be achieved by showcasing real-time video and audio footage of emperor penguins from the field as social media science and engineering-themed educational materials. Part II: Technical description: Polar ecosystems currently experience significant impacts due to global changes. Measurable negative effects on polar wildlife have already occurred, such as population decreases of numerous seabird species, including the complete loss of colonies of one of the most emblematic species of the Antarctic, the emperor penguin. These existing impacts on polar species are alarming, especially because many polar species still remain poorly studied due to technical and logistical challenges imposed by the harsh environment and extreme remoteness. Developing technologies and tools for monitoring such wildlife populations is, therefore, a matter of urgency. This project aims to help close major knowledge gaps about the emperor penguin, in particular about their adaptive capability to a changing environment, by the development of next-generation tools to remotely study entire colonies. Specifically, the main goal of this project is to implement and test an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle equipped with Radio-frequency identification (RFID) antennas and wireless mesh communication data-loggers to: 1) identify RFID-tagged emperor penguins during breeding to studying population dynamics without human presence; and 2) receive Global Positioning System-Time Domain Reflectometry (GPS-TDR) datasets from Very High Frequency VHF-GPS-TDR data-loggers without human presence to study animal behavior and distribution at sea. The autonomous vehicles navigation through the colony will be aided by an existing remote penguin observatory (SPOT). Properly implemented, this technology can be used to study of the life history of individual penguins, and therefore gather data for behavioral and population dynamic studies. The new data will contribute to intelligent establishment of marine protected areas in Antarctica. The education objectives of this CAREER project are designed to increase the interest in a STEM education for the next generation of scientists by combining the charisma of the emperor penguin with robotics research. Within this project, a new class on ecosystem robotics will be developed and taught, Robotics boot-camps will allow undergraduate students to remotely participate in Antarctic field trips, and an annual curriculum will be developed that allows K-12 students to follow the life of the emperor penguin during the breeding cycle, powered by real-time data obtained using the unmanned ground vehicle as well as the existing emperor penguin observatory. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-60 -55,-53 -55,-46 -55,-39 -55,-32 -55,-25 -55,-18 -55,-11 -55,-4 -55,3 -55,10 -55,10 -57.5,10 -60,10 -62.5,10 -65,10 -67.5,10 -70,10 -72.5,10 -75,10 -77.5,10 -80,3 -80,-4 -80,-11 -80,-18 -80,-25 -80,-32 -80,-39 -80,-46 -80,-53 -80,-60 -80,-60 -77.5,-60 -75,-60 -72.5,-60 -70,-60 -67.5,-60 -65,-60 -62.5,-60 -60,-60 -57.5,-60 -55)) | POINT(-25 -67.5) | false | false | |||||||
CAREER: Foraging Ecology and Physiology of Emperor Penguins in the Ross Sea
|
1943550 |
2021-07-20 | McDonald, Birgitte |
|
Part I: Non-technical Summary Understanding the mechanisms that animals use to find and acquire food is a fundamental question in ecology. The survival and success of marine predators depends on their ability to locate prey in a variable or changing environment. To do this the predators need to be able to adjust foraging behavior depending on the conditions they encounter. Emperor penguins are ice-dependent, top predators in Antarctica. However, they are vulnerable to environmental changes that alter food web or sea ice coverage, and environmental change may lead to changes in penguin foraging behavior, and ultimately survival and reproduction success. Despite their importance in the Southern Ocean ecosystem, relatively little is known about the specific mechanisms Emperor penguins use to find and acquire food. This study combines a suite of technological and analytical tools to gain essential knowledge on Ross Sea penguin foraging energetics, ecology, and habitat use during critical periods in their life history, especially during late chick-rearing periods. Energy management is particularly crucial during this time as parents need to feed both themselves and their rapidly growing offspring, while being constrained to regions near the colony. Penguin ecology and habitat preference will also be evaluated after the molt and through early reproduction. This study fills important ecological knowledge gaps on the energy balance, diet, and habitat use by penguins during these critical periods. Finally, the project furthers the NSF goals of training new generations of scientists through training of undergraduates, graduate students and a postdoctoral researcher. Public outreach activities will be aligned with another NSF funded project designed to provide science training in afterschool and camp programs that target underrepresented groups. Part II: Technical summary This project will identify behavioral and physiological variability in foraging Emperor penguins that can be directly linked to individual success in the marine environment using an ecological theoretical framework during two critical life history stages. First, this project will investigate the foraging energetics, ecology, and habitat use of Emperor penguins at Cape Crozier using fine-scale movement and video data loggers during the energetically demanding life history phase of late chick-rearing. Specifically, this study will 1) Estimate the relationship of foraging efficiency to foraging behavior and diet using an optimal foraging theory framework to identify what environmental or physiological constraints influence foraging behavior; 2) Investigate the inter- and intra-individual behavioral variability exhibited by emperor penguins, which is essential to predict how resilient these penguins are to environmental change; and 3) Integrate penguin foraging efficiency data with environmental data to identify important habitat. Next the researchers will study the ecology and habitat preference after the molt and through early reproduction using satellite-linked data loggers. The team will: 1) Investigate penguin inter- and intra-individual behavioral variability during the three-month post-molt and early winter foraging trips; and 2) Integrate penguin behavioral data with environmental data to identify which environmental features are indicative of habitat preference when penguins are not constrained to returning to the colony to feed a chick. These fine- and coarse-scale data will be combined with climate predictions to create predictive habitat models. The education objectives of this CAREER project are designed to inspire, engage, and train the next generation of scientists using the data and video generated while investigating Emperor penguins in the Antarctic ecosystem. This includes development of two university courses, training of undergraduate and graduate students, and a collaboration with the NSF funded “Polar Literacy: A model for youth engagement and learning” program to develop after school and camp curriculum that target undeserved and underrepresented groups. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((168 -77,168.3 -77,168.6 -77,168.9 -77,169.2 -77,169.5 -77,169.8 -77,170.1 -77,170.4 -77,170.7 -77,171 -77,171 -77.1,171 -77.2,171 -77.3,171 -77.4,171 -77.5,171 -77.6,171 -77.7,171 -77.8,171 -77.9,171 -78,170.7 -78,170.4 -78,170.1 -78,169.8 -78,169.5 -78,169.2 -78,168.9 -78,168.6 -78,168.3 -78,168 -78,168 -77.9,168 -77.8,168 -77.7,168 -77.6,168 -77.5,168 -77.4,168 -77.3,168 -77.2,168 -77.1,168 -77)) | POINT(169.5 -77.5) | false | false | |||||||
Foraging Behavior and Ecological Role of the Least Studied Antarctic Krill Predator, the Antarctic Minke Whale (Balaenoptera Bonaerensis)
|
1643877 |
2021-06-25 | Friedlaender, Ari |
|
The Antarctic Peninsula is warming and one of the consequences is a decrease in sea ice cover. Antarctic minke whales are the largest ice-obligate krill predator in the region, yet- little is known about their foraging behavior and ecology. The goals of the project are to use a suite of new technological tools to measure the underwater behavior of the whales and better understand how they exploit the sea ice habitat. Using video-recording motion-sensing tags, the underwater movements of the whales can be reconstructed and it can be determine where and when they feed. UAS (unmanned aerial systems) will be used to generate real-time images of sea ice cover that will be linked with tag data to determine how much time whales spend in sea ice versus open water, and how the behavior of the whales changes between these two habitats. Lastly, scientific echosounders will be used to characterize the prey field that the whales are exploiting and differences in krill availability inside and out of the ice will be investigated. All of this information is critical to understand the ecological role of Antarctic minke whales so that better predictions can be made regarding impacts of climate change not only on these animals, but on the structure and function of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. The project will promote the progress of science by elucidating the ecological role of a poorly known Antarctic predator and using this information to better understand the impact of changes that are occurring in Polar Regions. The educational and outreach program will increase awareness and understanding of minke whales, Antarctic marine ecosystems, sea ice, and the dynamics of climate change through the use of film, social media, and curriculum development for formal STEM educators. To understand how changes in sea ice will manifest in the demography of predators that rely on sea ice habitat requires knowledge of their behavior and ecology. The largest ice-dependent krill predator and most abundant cetacean in the Southern Ocean is the Antarctic minke whale (AMW)- yet, virtually nothing is known of its foraging behavior or ecological role. Thus, the knowledge to understand how climate-driven changes will affect these animals and therefore the dynamics of the ecosystem as a whole is lacking. The project will use multi-sensor and video recording tags, fisheries acoustics, and unmanned aerial systems to study the foraging behavior and ecological role of minke whales in the waters of the Antarctic Peninsula. The following research questions will be posed: 1. What is the feeding performance of AMWs? 2. How important is sea ice to the foraging behavior of AMW? 3. How do AMWs feed directly under sea ice? Proven tagging and analytical approaches to characterize the underwater feeding behavior and kinematics of minke whales will be used. Combined with quantitative measurements of the prey field, the energetic costs of feeding will be measured and it will be determined how minke whales optimize energy gain. Using animal-borne video recording tags and UAS technology it will also be determined how much feeding occurs directly under sea ice and how this mode differs from open water feeding. This knowledge will: (1) significantly enhance knowledge of the least-studied Antarctic krill predator; and (2) be made directly available to international, long-term efforts to understand how climate-driven changes will affect the structure and function of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. The educational and outreach efforts aim to increase awareness and understanding of: (i) the ecological role of minke whales around the Antarctic Peninsula; (ii) the effects of environmental change on an abundant but largely unstudied marine predator; (iii) the advanced methods and technologies used by whale researchers to study these cryptic animals and their prey; and (iv) the variety of careers in the ocean sciences by sharing the experiences of scientists and students. These educational aims will be achieved by delivering continuous near-real-time delivery of project events and data to informal audiences through social media channels as well as curricula and professional development programs that will provide formal STEM educators with specific standards-compliant lesson plans. | POLYGON((-65 -63.5,-64.5 -63.5,-64 -63.5,-63.5 -63.5,-63 -63.5,-62.5 -63.5,-62 -63.5,-61.5 -63.5,-61 -63.5,-60.5 -63.5,-60 -63.5,-60 -63.73,-60 -63.96,-60 -64.19,-60 -64.42,-60 -64.65,-60 -64.88,-60 -65.11,-60 -65.34,-60 -65.57,-60 -65.8,-60.5 -65.8,-61 -65.8,-61.5 -65.8,-62 -65.8,-62.5 -65.8,-63 -65.8,-63.5 -65.8,-64 -65.8,-64.5 -65.8,-65 -65.8,-65 -65.57,-65 -65.34,-65 -65.11,-65 -64.88,-65 -64.65,-65 -64.42,-65 -64.19,-65 -63.96,-65 -63.73,-65 -63.5)) | POINT(-62.5 -64.65) | false | false | |||||||
Genome Evolution in Polar Fishes
|
1906015 |
2021-06-25 | Kelley, Joanna |
|
Fish that reside in the harsh, subfreezing waters of the Antarctic and Arctic provide fascinating examples of adaptation to extreme environments. Species at both poles have independently evolved ways to deal with constant cold temperature, including the evolution of antifreeze proteins. Under freezing conditions, these compounds attach to ice crystals and prevent their growth. This lowers the tissue freezing point and reduces the chance the animal will be injured or killed. While it might seem that the need for unique adaptations to survive in polar waters would reduce species diversity in these habitats, recent evidence showed higher speciation rates in fishes from polar environments as compared to those found in warmer waters. This is despite the fact cold temperatures slow cellular processes, which had been expected to lower rates of molecular evolution in these species. To determine how rates of speciation and molecular evolution are linked in marine fishes, this project will compare the genomes of multiple polar and non-polar fishes. By doing so, it will (1) clarify how rates of evolution vary in polar environments, (2) identify general trends that shape the adaptive trajectories of polar fishes, and (3) determine how functional differences shape the evolution of novel compounds such as the antifreeze proteins some polar fishes rely upon to survive. In addition to training a new generation of scientists, the project will develop curriculum and outreach activities for elementary and undergraduate science courses. Materials will be delivered in classrooms across the western United States, with a focus on rural schools as part of a network for promoting evolutionary education in rural communities. To better understand the biology of polar fishes and the evolution of antifreeze proteins (AFPs), this research will compare the evolutionary histories of cold-adapted organisms to those of related non-polar species from both a genotypic and phenotypic context. In doing so, this research will test whether evolutionary rates are slowed in polar environments, perhaps due to constraints on cellular processes. It will also evaluate the effects of positive selection and the relaxation of selection on genes and pathways, both of which appear to be key adaptive strategies involved in the adaptation to polar environments. To address specific mechanisms by which extreme adaptation occurs, researchers will determine how global gradients of temperature and dissolved oxygen shape genome variation and influence adaptive trajectories among multiple species of eelpouts (family Zoarcidae). An in-vitro experimental approach will then be used to test functional hypotheses about the role of copy number variation in AFP evolution, and how and why multiple antifreeze protein isoforms have evolved. By comparing the genomes of multiple polar and non-polar fishes, the project will clarify how rates of evolution vary in polar environments, identify general trends that shape the adaptive trajectories of cold-adapted marine fishes, and determine how functional differences shape the evolution of novel proteins. This project addresses the strategic programmatic aim to provide a better understanding of the genetic underpinnings of organismal adaptations to their current environment and ways in which polar fishes may respond to changing conditions over different evolutionary time scales. The project is jointly funded by the Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems Program in the Office of Polar Programs of the Geosciences Directorate, and the Molecular Biophysics Program of the Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences in the Biological Sciences Directorate. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: RAPID/Workshop - Antarctic Ecosystem Research following Ice Shelf Collapse and Iceberg Calving Events
|
1750903 1750888 1750630 |
2021-06-21 | Ingels, Jeroen; Aronson, Richard; Smith, Craig | No dataset link provided | Worldwide publicity surrounding the calving of an iceberg the size of Delaware in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf on the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula presents a unique and time-sensitive opportunity for research and education on polar ecosystems in a changing climate. The goal of this project is to convene a workshop, drawing from the large fund of intellectual capital in the US and international Antarctic research communities. The two-day workshop will be held at Florida State University where a consortium of researchers with expertise in Antarctic biological, ecological, and ecosystem sciences will be gathered to share knowledge, identify important research knowledge gaps, and outline strategic plans for research. The workshop will help advance scientific and public understanding of the continent-wide changes that Antarctic ice shelves and surrounding ecosystems experience as ice shelves change. The primary products will be reports focusing on synthesizing, coordinating and integrating research efforts to understand the ecological impacts of ice-shelf collapses and large iceberg calving along the Antarctic Peninsula. The workshop will also provide an immediate, interactive experience for K-12 school children with a hands-on ?Saturday Polar Academy?, a children?s poster session, and question-answer session during the workshop. Children will have the opportunity to interact with Antarctic researchers and become familiar with Antarctic science, organisms, ecosystems and current issues, feeding their scientific curiosity. The calving of A-68, the 5,800-km2 iceberg shed in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf presents a unique and time-sensitive research opportunity. The scientific momentum and public interest created by this most recent event will be leveraged to convene a workshop at the earliest opportunity, drawing from the large intellectual capital in the US and international Antarctic research communities. The two-day workshop will be held at Florida State University, Coastal and Marine Laboratory on the Gulf Coast organized by Jeroen Ingels (Florida State University; FSU), Richard Aronson (Florida Institute of Technology; FIT), and Craig Smith (University of Hawaii at Manoa; UHM). A consortium of researchers with a diversity of expertise in Antarctic biological, ecological, and ecosystem sciences will be gathered to share knowledge, identify important research priorities and knowledge gaps, and outline strategic plans for research to advance understanding of the continent-wide changes that Antarctic ice shelves and surrounding ecosystems experience as ice shelves change. | POLYGON((-64 -66,-63.3 -66,-62.6 -66,-61.9 -66,-61.2 -66,-60.5 -66,-59.8 -66,-59.1 -66,-58.4 -66,-57.7 -66,-57 -66,-57 -66.3,-57 -66.6,-57 -66.9,-57 -67.2,-57 -67.5,-57 -67.8,-57 -68.1,-57 -68.4,-57 -68.7,-57 -69,-57.7 -69,-58.4 -69,-59.1 -69,-59.8 -69,-60.5 -69,-61.2 -69,-61.9 -69,-62.6 -69,-63.3 -69,-64 -69,-64 -68.7,-64 -68.4,-64 -68.1,-64 -67.8,-64 -67.5,-64 -67.2,-64 -66.9,-64 -66.6,-64 -66.3,-64 -66)) | POINT(-60.5 -67.5) | false | false | |||||||
Does Nest Density Matter? Using Novel Technology to Collect Whole-colony Data on Adelie Penguins.
|
1834986 |
2021-05-12 | Ballard, Grant; Schmidt, Annie; Schwager, Mac; McKown, Matthew |
|
New methodologies for the deployment of coordinated unmanned aerial vehicles will be developed with the aim of attaining whole-colony imagery that can be used to characterize nesting habitats of Adelie penguins at Cape Crozier, on Ross Island, Antarctica. This information will be used to test hypotheses regarding relationships between terrain characteristics, nesting density, and breeding success. This population, potentially the largest in the world and at the southern limit of the species' range, has doubled in size over the past 20 years while most other colonies in the region have remained stable or declined. New information gained from this project will be useful in understanding the potential ofclimate-driven changes in terrestrial nesting habitats for impacting Adelie penguins in the future. The project will produce, and document, open-source software tools to help automate image processing for automated counting of Adelie penguins. The project will train graduate and undergraduate students and contribute materials to ongoing educational outreach programs based on related penguin science projects. Information gained from this project will contribute towards building robust, cost-effective protocols for monitoring Adelie penguin populations, a key ecosystem indicator identified in the draft Ross Sea Marine Protected Area Research and Monitoring Plan. Adelie penguins are important indicators of ecosystem function and change in the Southern Ocean. In addition to facing rapid changes in sea ice and other factors in their pelagic environment, their terrestrial nesting habitat is also changing. Understanding the species' response to such changes is critical for assessing its ability to adapt to the changing climate. The objective of this project is to test several hypotheses about the influence of fine-scale nesting habitat, nest density, and breeding success of Adelie penguins in the Ross Sea region. To accomplish this, the project will develop algorithms to improve efficiency and safety of surveys by unmanned aerial systems and develop and disseminate an automated image processing workflow. Images collected during several UAV surveys will be used to estimate the number of nesting adults and chicks produced, as well as estimate nesting density in different parts of two colonies on Ross Island, Antarctica, that differ in size by two orders of magnitude. Imagery will be used to generate high resolution digital surface/elevation models that will allow terrain variables like flood risk and terrain complexity to be derived. Combining the surface model with the nest and chick counts at the two colonies will provide relationships between habitat covariates, nest density, and breeding success. The approaches developed will enable Adelie penguin population sizes and potentially several other indicators in the Ross Sea Marine Protected Area Research and Monitoring Plan to be determined and evaluated. The flight control algorithms developed have the potential to be used for many types of surveys, especially when large areas need to be covered in a short period with extreme weather potential and difficult landing options. Aerial images and video will be used to create useable materials to be included in outreach and educational programs. The automated image processing workflow and classification models will be developed as open source software and will be made freely available for others addressing similar wildlife monitoring challenges. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((165 -77,165.5 -77,166 -77,166.5 -77,167 -77,167.5 -77,168 -77,168.5 -77,169 -77,169.5 -77,170 -77,170 -77.1,170 -77.2,170 -77.3,170 -77.4,170 -77.5,170 -77.6,170 -77.7,170 -77.8,170 -77.9,170 -78,169.5 -78,169 -78,168.5 -78,168 -78,167.5 -78,167 -78,166.5 -78,166 -78,165.5 -78,165 -78,165 -77.9,165 -77.8,165 -77.7,165 -77.6,165 -77.5,165 -77.4,165 -77.3,165 -77.2,165 -77.1,165 -77)) | POINT(167.5 -77.5) | false | false | |||||||
Population Growth at the Southern Extreme: Effects of Early Life Conditions on Adelie penguin Individuals and Colonies
|
1935901 1935870 |
2021-05-12 | Ballard, Grant; Schmidt, Annie; Varsani, Arvind; Dugger, Katie; Orben, Rachael |
|
Part 1: Non-technical description Polar regions are experiencing some of the most dramatic effects of climate change resulting in large-scale changes in sea ice cover. Despite this, there are relatively few long-term studies on polar species that evaluate the full scope of these effects. Over the last two decades, this team has conducted globally unique demographic studies of Adélie penguins in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, to explore several potential mechanisms for population change. This five-year project will use penguin-borne sensors to evaluate foraging conditions and behavior and environmental conditions on early life stages of Adélie penguins. Results will help to better understand population dynamics and how populations might respond to future environmental change. To promote STEM literacy, education and public outreach efforts will include multiple activities. The PenguinCam and PenguinScience.com website (impacts of >1 million hits per month and use by >300 classrooms/~10,000 students) will be continued. Each field season will also have ‘Live From the Penguins’ Skype calls to classes (~120/season). Classroom-ready activities that are aligned with Next Generation Science Standards will be developed with media products and science journal papers translated to grade 5-8 literacy level. The project will also train early career scientists, postdoctoral scholars, graduate students and post-graduate interns. Finally, in partnership with an Environmental Leadership Program, the team will host 2-year Roger Arliner Young Conservation Fellow, which is a program designed to increase opportunities for recent college graduates of color to learn about, engage with, and enter the environmental conservation sector. Part II: Technical description: Leveraging 25 years of data on marked individuals from two Adélie penguin colonies in the Ross Sea, combined with new biologging tags that track detailed penguin foraging efforts and environmental conditions, researchers will accomplish three major goals: 1) assess the quality of natal conditions by determining how environmental conditions, relative prey availability, and diet composition influence parental foraging behavior, chick provisioning, and fledging mass; 2) determine the spatial distribution and foraging behavior of juvenile Adélie penguins and the relative influence of natal versus post-fledging environmental conditions on their survival; and 3) determine the role of natal and post-fledging conditions in shaping individual life history traits and colony growth. Data from several types of penguin-borne biologging devices will be used to provide multiple lines of evidence for how early-life conditions and penguin behavior relate to penguin energetics and population size. This study is the first to integrate salinity, temperature, light level, depth, accelerometry, video loggers, and GPS data with longitudinal demographic information, providing an unprecedented ability to understand how penguins use the environment and enabling new insights from previously collected data. Changes in salinity due to increased glacial melt have important implications for sea ice formation, ocean circulation and productivity of the Southern Ocean, and potentially global temperature change. The penguin-borne sensors deployed in this study will support the NSF Office of Polar Programs priority: How does society more efficiently observe and measure the polar regions? It represents only the second study to track juvenile Adélie penguins at sea, the first in the Ross Sea region, the first with substantial sample sizes, and the first to assess juvenile survival rates directly, integrating early life factors and environmental conditions to better understand colony growth trajectories. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-177 -60,-174 -60,-171 -60,-168 -60,-165 -60,-162 -60,-159 -60,-156 -60,-153 -60,-150 -60,-150 -61.8,-150 -63.6,-150 -65.4,-150 -67.2,-150 -69,-150 -70.8,-150 -72.6,-150 -74.4,-150 -76.2,-150 -78,-153 -78,-156 -78,-159 -78,-162 -78,-165 -78,-168 -78,-171 -78,-174 -78,-177 -78,180 -78,178.5 -78,177 -78,175.5 -78,174 -78,172.5 -78,171 -78,169.5 -78,168 -78,166.5 -78,165 -78,165 -76.2,165 -74.4,165 -72.6,165 -70.8,165 -69,165 -67.2,165 -65.4,165 -63.6,165 -61.8,165 -60,166.5 -60,168 -60,169.5 -60,171 -60,172.5 -60,174 -60,175.5 -60,177 -60,178.5 -60,-180 -60)) | POINT(-172.5 -69) | false | false | |||||||
A Full Lifecycle Approach to Understanding Adélie Penguin Response to Changing Pack Ice Conditions in the Ross Sea.
|
1543459 1543498 1543541 |
2021-05-11 | Ballard, Grant; Ainley, David; Dugger, Katie | The Ross Sea region of the Southern Ocean is experiencing growing sea ice cover in both extent and duration. These trends contrast those of the well-studied, western Antarctic Peninsula area, where sea ice has been disappearing. Unlike the latter, little is known about how expanding sea ice coverage might affect the regional Antarctic marine ecosystem. This project aims to better understand some of the potential effects of the changing ice conditions on the marine ecosystem using the widely-recognized indicator species - the Adélie Penguin. A four-year effort will build on previous results spanning 19 seasons at Ross Island to explore how successes or failures in each part of the penguin's annual cycle are effected by ice conditions and how these carry over to the next annual recruitment cycle, especially with respect to the penguin's condition upon arrival in the spring. Education and public outreach activities will continually be promoted through the PenguinCam and PenguinScience websites (sites with greater than 1 million hits a month) and "NestCheck" (a site that is logged-on by >300 classrooms annually that allows students to follow penguin families in their breeding efforts). To encourage students in pursuing educational and career pathways in the Science Technology Engineering and Math fields, the project will also provide stories from the field in a Penguin Journal, develop classroom-ready activities aligned with New Generation Science Standards, increase the availability of instructional presentations as powerpoint files and short webisodes. The project will provide additional outreach activities through local, state and national speaking engagements about penguins, Antarctic science and climate change. The annual outreach efforts are aimed at reaching over 15,000 students through the website, 300 teachers through presentations and workshops, and 500 persons in the general public. The project also will train four interns (undergraduate and graduate level), two post-doctoral researchers, and a science writer/photographer. The project will accomplish three major goals, all of which relate to how Adélie Penguins adapt to, or cope with environmental change. Specifically the project seeks to determine 1) how changing winter sea ice conditions in the Ross Sea region affect penguin migration, behavior and survival and alter the carry-over effects (COEs) to subsequent reproduction; 2) the interplay between extrinsic and intrinsic factors influencing COEs over multiple years of an individual?s lifetime; and 3) how local environmental change may affect population change via impacts to nesting habitat, interacting with individual quality and COEs. Retrospective analyses will be conducted using 19 years of colony based data and collect additional information on individually marked, known-age and known-history penguins, from new recruits to possibly senescent individuals. Four years of new information will be gained from efforts based at two colonies (Cape Royds and Crozier), using radio frequency identification tags to automatically collect data on breeding and foraging effort of marked, known-history birds to explore penguin response to resource availability within the colony as well as between colonies (mates, nesting material, habitat availability). Additional geolocation/time-depth recorders will be used to investigate travels and foraging during winter of these birds. The combined efforts will allow an assessment of the effects of penguin behavior/success in one season on its behavior in the next (e.g. how does winter behavior affect arrival time and body condition on subsequent breeding). It is at the individual level that penguins are responding successfully, or not, to ongoing marine habitat change in the Ross Sea region. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-177 -60,-174 -60,-171 -60,-168 -60,-165 -60,-162 -60,-159 -60,-156 -60,-153 -60,-150 -60,-150 -61.8,-150 -63.6,-150 -65.4,-150 -67.2,-150 -69,-150 -70.8,-150 -72.6,-150 -74.4,-150 -76.2,-150 -78,-153 -78,-156 -78,-159 -78,-162 -78,-165 -78,-168 -78,-171 -78,-174 -78,-177 -78,180 -78,178.5 -78,177 -78,175.5 -78,174 -78,172.5 -78,171 -78,169.5 -78,168 -78,166.5 -78,165 -78,165 -76.2,165 -74.4,165 -72.6,165 -70.8,165 -69,165 -67.2,165 -65.4,165 -63.6,165 -61.8,165 -60,166.5 -60,168 -60,169.5 -60,171 -60,172.5 -60,174 -60,175.5 -60,177 -60,178.5 -60,-180 -60)) | POINT(-172.5 -69) | false | false | ||||||||
Collaborative Research: Chemoautotrophy in Antarctic Bacterioplankton Communities Supported by the Oxidation of Urea-derived Nitrogen
|
1643466 1643345 |
2020-12-18 | Hollibaugh, James T.; Popp, Brian |
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Part 1: Nitrification is the conversion of ammonium to nitrate by a two-step process involving two different guilds of microorganisms: ammonia- and nitrite-oxidizers. The process is central to the global nitrogen cycle, affecting everything from retention of fertilizer on croplands to removal of excess nitrogen from coastal waters before it can cause blooms of harmful algae. It also produces nitrous oxide, an ozone-destroying, greenhouse gas. The energy derived from both steps of nitrification is used to convert inorganic carbon into microbial biomass. The biomass produced contributes to the overall food web production of the Southern Ocean and may be a particularly important subsidy during winter when low light levels restrict the other major source of biomass, primary production by single-celled plants. This project addresses three fundamental questions about the biology and geochemistry of polar oceans, with a focus on the process of nitrification. The first question the project will address concerns the contribution of chemoautotrophy (based on nitrification) to the overall supply of organic carbon to the food web of the Southern Ocean. Previous measurements indicate that it contributes about 9% to the Antarctic food web on an annual basis, but those measurements did not include the additional production associated with nitrite oxidation. The second question to be addressed is related to the first and concerns the coupling between the steps of the process. The third seeks to determine the significance of the contribution of other sources of nitrogen, (specifically organic nitrogen and urea released by other organisms) to nitrification because these contributions may not be assessed by standard protocols. Measurements made by others suggest that urea in particular might be as important as ammonium to nitrification in polar regions. This project will result in training a postdoctoral researcher and provide undergraduate students opportunities to gain hand-on experience with research on microbial geochemistry. The Palmer LTER (PAL) activities have focused largely on the interaction between ocean climate and the marine food web affecting top predators. Relatively little effort has been devoted to studying processes related to the microbial geochemistry of nitrogen cycling as part of the Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) program, yet these are a major themes at other sites. This work will contribute substantially to understanding an important aspect of nitrogen cycling and bacterioplankton production in the PAL-LTER study area. The team will be working synergistically and be participating fully in the education and outreach efforts of the Palmer LTER, including making highlights of the findings available for posting to their project web site and participating in any special efforts they have in the area of outreach. Part 2: The proposed work will quantify oxidation rates of 15N supplied as ammonium, urea and nitrite, allowing us to estimate the contribution of urea-derived N and complete nitrification (ammonia to nitrate) to chemoautotrophy and bacterioplankton production in Antarctic coastal waters. The project will compare these estimates to direct measurements of the incorporation of 14C into organic matter the dark for an independent estimate of chemoautotrophy. The team aims to collect samples spanning the water column: from surface water (~10 m), winter water (50-100 m) and circumpolar deep water (>150 m); on a cruise surveying the continental shelf and slope west of the Antarctic Peninsula in the austral summer of 2018. Other samples will be taken to measure the concentrations of nitrate, nitrite, ammonia and urea, for qPCR analysis of the abundance of relevant microorganisms, and for studies of related processes. The project will rely on collaboration with the existing Palmer LTER to ensure that ancillary data (bacterioplankton abundance and production, chlorophyll, physical and chemical variables) will be available. The synergistic activities of this project along with the LTER activities will provide a unique opportunity to assess chemoautotrophy in context of the overall ecosystem?s dynamics- including both primary and secondary production processes. | POLYGON((-78.20206667 -64.03195833,-76.785055836 -64.03195833,-75.368045002 -64.03195833,-73.951034168 -64.03195833,-72.534023334 -64.03195833,-71.1170125 -64.03195833,-69.700001666 -64.03195833,-68.282990832 -64.03195833,-66.865979998 -64.03195833,-65.448969164 -64.03195833,-64.03195833 -64.03195833,-64.03195833 -64.554377497,-64.03195833 -65.076796664,-64.03195833 -65.599215831,-64.03195833 -66.121634998,-64.03195833 -66.644054165,-64.03195833 -67.166473332,-64.03195833 -67.688892499,-64.03195833 -68.211311666,-64.03195833 -68.733730833,-64.03195833 -69.25615,-65.448969164 -69.25615,-66.865979998 -69.25615,-68.282990832 -69.25615,-69.700001666 -69.25615,-71.1170125 -69.25615,-72.534023334 -69.25615,-73.951034168 -69.25615,-75.368045002 -69.25615,-76.785055836 -69.25615,-78.20206667 -69.25615,-78.20206667 -68.733730833,-78.20206667 -68.211311666,-78.20206667 -67.688892499,-78.20206667 -67.166473332,-78.20206667 -66.644054165,-78.20206667 -66.121634998,-78.20206667 -65.599215831,-78.20206667 -65.076796664,-78.20206667 -64.554377497,-78.20206667 -64.03195833)) | POINT(-71.1170125 -66.644054165) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research in IPY: Abrupt Environmental Change in the Larsen Ice Shelf System, a Multidisciplinary Approach - Marine Ecosystems.
|
0732450 0732917 0732711 0732983 |
2020-10-09 | McCormick, Michael; Vernet, Maria; Van Dover, Cindy; Smith, Craig | A profound transformation in ecosystem structure and function is occurring in coastal waters of the western Weddell Sea, with the collapse of the Larsen B ice shelf. This transformation appears to be yielding a redistribution of energy flow between chemoautotrophic and photosynthetic production, and to be causing the rapid demise of the extraordinary seep ecosystem discovered beneath the ice shelf. This event provides an ideal opportunity to examine fundamental aspects of ecosystem transition associated with climate change. We propose to test the following hypotheses to elucidate the transformations occurring in marine ecosystems as a consequence of the Larsen B collapse: (1) The biogeographic isolation and sub-ice shelf setting of the Larsen B seep has led to novel habitat characteristics, chemoautotrophically dependent taxa and functional adaptations. (2) Benthic communities beneath the former Larsen B ice shelf are fundamentally different from assemblages at similar depths in the Weddell sea-ice zone, and resemble oligotrophic deep-sea communities. Larsen B assemblages are undergoing rapid change. (3) The previously dark, oligotrophic waters of the Larsen B embayment now support a thriving phototrophic community, with production rates and phytoplankton composition similar to other productive areas of the Weddell Sea. To document rapid changes occurring in the Larsen B ecosystem, we will use a remotely operated vehicle, shipboard samplers, and moored sediment traps. We will characterize microbial, macrofaunal and megafaunal components of the seep community; evaluate patterns of surface productivity, export flux, and benthic faunal composition in areas previously covered by the ice shelf, and compare these areas to the open sea-ice zone. These changes will be placed within the geological, glaciological and climatological context that led to ice-shelf retreat, through companion research projects funded in concert with this effort. Together these projects will help predict the likely consequences of ice-shelf collapse to marine ecosystems in other regions of Antarctica vulnerable to climate change. The research features international collaborators from Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom. The broader impacts include participation of a science writer; broadcast of science segments by members of the Jim Lehrer News Hour (Public Broadcasting System); material for summer courses in environmental change; mentoring of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows; and showcasing scientific activities and findings to students and public through podcasts. | POLYGON((-60.5 -63.1,-59.99 -63.1,-59.48 -63.1,-58.97 -63.1,-58.46 -63.1,-57.95 -63.1,-57.44 -63.1,-56.93 -63.1,-56.42 -63.1,-55.91 -63.1,-55.4 -63.1,-55.4 -63.29,-55.4 -63.48,-55.4 -63.67,-55.4 -63.86,-55.4 -64.05,-55.4 -64.24,-55.4 -64.43,-55.4 -64.62,-55.4 -64.81,-55.4 -65,-55.91 -65,-56.42 -65,-56.93 -65,-57.44 -65,-57.95 -65,-58.46 -65,-58.97 -65,-59.48 -65,-59.99 -65,-60.5 -65,-60.5 -64.81,-60.5 -64.62,-60.5 -64.43,-60.5 -64.24,-60.5 -64.05,-60.5 -63.86,-60.5 -63.67,-60.5 -63.48,-60.5 -63.29,-60.5 -63.1)) | POINT(-57.95 -64.05) | false | false | ||||||||
Impact of Convective Processes and Sea Ice Formation on the Distribution of Iron in the Ross Sea: Closing the Seasonal Cycle
|
1543483 |
2020-06-22 | Sedwick, Peter |
|
The waters of the Ross Sea continental shelf are among the most productive in the Southern Ocean, and may comprise a significant regional oceanic sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide. In this region, primary production can be limited by the supply of dissolved iron to surface waters during the growing season. Water-column observations, sampling and measurements are to be carried out in the late autumn-early winter time frame on the Ross Sea continental shelf and coastal polynyas (Terra Nova Bay and Ross Ice Shelf polynyas), in order to better understand what drives the biogeochemical redistribution of micronutrient iron species during the onset of convective mixing and sea-ice formation at this time of year, thereby setting conditions for primary production during the following spring. The spectacular field setting and remote, hostile conditions that accompany the proposed field study present exciting possibilities for STEM education and training. At the K-12 level, the project seeks to support the development of educational outreach materials targeting elementary and middle school students, pre-service science teachers, and in-service science teachers. | POLYGON((-180 -66,-179.5 -66,-179 -66,-178.5 -66,-178 -66,-177.5 -66,-177 -66,-176.5 -66,-176 -66,-175.5 -66,-175 -66,-175 -67.2,-175 -68.4,-175 -69.6,-175 -70.8,-175 -72,-175 -73.2,-175 -74.4,-175 -75.6,-175 -76.8,-175 -78,-175.5 -78,-176 -78,-176.5 -78,-177 -78,-177.5 -78,-178 -78,-178.5 -78,-179 -78,-179.5 -78,180 -78,178.5 -78,177 -78,175.5 -78,174 -78,172.5 -78,171 -78,169.5 -78,168 -78,166.5 -78,165 -78,165 -76.8,165 -75.6,165 -74.4,165 -73.2,165 -72,165 -70.8,165 -69.6,165 -68.4,165 -67.2,165 -66,166.5 -66,168 -66,169.5 -66,171 -66,172.5 -66,174 -66,175.5 -66,177 -66,178.5 -66,-180 -66)) | POINT(175 -72) | false | false | |||||||
Antarctic Notothenioid Fish Freeze Avoidance and Genome-wide Evolution for Life in the Cold
|
1142158 0231006 |
2020-04-08 | Cheng, Chi-Hing; Devries, Arthur | Antarctic notothenioid fishes exhibit two adaptive traits to survive in frigid temperatures. The first of these is the production of anti-freeze proteins in their blood and tissues. The second is a system-wide ability to perform cellular and physiological functions at extremely cold temperatures.The proposal goals are to show how Antarctic fishes use these characteristics to avoid freezing, and which additional genes are turned on, or suppressed in order for these fishes to maintain normal physiological function in extreme cold temperatures. Progressively colder habitats are encountered in the high latitude McMurdo Sound and Ross Shelf region, along with somewhat milder near?shore water environments in the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). By quantifying the extent of ice crystals invading and lodging in the spleen, the percentage of McMurdo Sound fish during austral summer (Oct-Feb) will be compared to the WAP intertidal fish during austral winter (Jul-Sep) to demonstrate their capability and extent of freeze avoidance. Resistance to ice entry in surface epithelia (e.g. skin, gill and intestinal lining) is another expression of the adaptation of these fish to otherwise lethally freezing conditions. The adaptive nature of a uniquely characteristic polar genome will be explored by the study of the transcriptome (the set of expressed RNA transcripts that constitutes the precursor to set of proteins expressed by an entire genome). Three notothenioid species (E.maclovinus, D. Mawsoni and C. aceratus) will be analysed to document evolutionary genetic changes (both gain and loss) shaped by life under extreme chronic cold. A differential gene expression (DGE) study will be carried out on these different species to evaluate evolutionary modification of tissue-wide response to heat challenges. The transcriptomes and other sequencing libraries will contribute to de novo ice-fish genome sequencing efforts. | POLYGON((163 -76.5,163.5 -76.5,164 -76.5,164.5 -76.5,165 -76.5,165.5 -76.5,166 -76.5,166.5 -76.5,167 -76.5,167.5 -76.5,168 -76.5,168 -76.63,168 -76.76,168 -76.89,168 -77.02,168 -77.15,168 -77.28,168 -77.41,168 -77.54,168 -77.67,168 -77.8,167.5 -77.8,167 -77.8,166.5 -77.8,166 -77.8,165.5 -77.8,165 -77.8,164.5 -77.8,164 -77.8,163.5 -77.8,163 -77.8,163 -77.67,163 -77.54,163 -77.41,163 -77.28,163 -77.15,163 -77.02,163 -76.89,163 -76.76,163 -76.63,163 -76.5)) | POINT(165.5 -77.15) | false | false | ||||||||
Phylogenomic Study of Adaptive Radiation in Antarctic Fishes
|
1341661 |
2020-02-29 | Near, Thomas |
|
Understanding how groups of organisms respond to climate change is fundamentally important to assessing the impacts of human activities as well as understanding how past climatic shifts have shaped biological diversity over deep stretches of time. The fishes occupying the near-shore marine habitats around Antarctica are dominated by one group of closely related species called notothenioids. It appears dramatic changes in Antarctic climate were important in the origin and evolutionary diversification of this economically important lineage of fishes. Deposits of fossil fishes in Antarctica that were formed when the continent was experiencing milder temperatures show that the area was home to a much more diverse array of fish lineages. Today the waters of the Southern Ocean are very cold, and often below freezing, but notothenioids fishes exhibit a number of adaptions to live in this harsh set of marine habitats, including the presence of anti-freeze proteins. This research project will collect DNA sequences from hundreds of genes to infer the genealogical relationships of nearly all 124 notothenioid species, and use mathematical techniques to estimate the ages of species and lineages. Knowledge on the timing of evolutionary divergence in notothenioids will allow investigators to assess if timing of previous major climatic shifts in Antarctica are correlated with key events in the formation of the modern Southern Ocean fish fauna. The project will also further the NSF goals of making scientific discoveries available to the general public and of training new generations of scientists. The project will support educational outreach activities to teenager groups and to the general public through a natural history museum exhibit and other public lectures. It will provide professional training opportunities for graduate students and a postdoctoral research scholar. Adaptive radiation, where lineages experience high rates of evolutionary diversification coincident with ecological divergence, is mostly studied in island ecosystems. Notothenioids dominate the fish fauna of the Southern Ocean and exhibit antifreeze glycoproteins that allow occupation of the subzero waters. Notothenioids are noted as one of the only examples of adaptive radiation among marine fishes, but the evolutionary history of diversification and radiation into different ecological habitats is poorly understood. This research will generate a species phylogeny (evolutionary history) for nearly all of the 124 recognized notothenioid species to investigate the mechanisms of adaptive radiation in this lineage. The phylogeny is inferred from approximately 350 genes sampled using next generation DNA sequencing and related techniques. Morphometric data are taken for museum specimens to investigate the tempo of morphological diversification and to determine if there are correlations between rates of lineage diversification and the origin of morphological disparity. The patterns of lineage, morphological, and ecological diversification in the notothenioid radiation will be compared to the paleoclimatic record to determine if past instances of global climate change have shaped the evolutionary diversification of this lineage of polar-adapted fishes. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: Investigating Holocene Shifts in the Diets and Paleohistory of Antarctic Krill Predators
|
1826712 1443386 1443585 1443424 |
2019-08-08 | Polito, Michael; Kelton, McMahon; Patterson, William; McCarthy, Matthew | The Antarctic marine ecosystem is highly productive and supports a diverse range of ecologically and commercially important species. A key species in this ecosystem is Antarctic krill, which in addition to being commercially harvested, is the principle prey of a wide range of marine organisms including penguins, seals and whales. The aim of this study is to use penguins and other krill predators as sensitive indicators of past changes in the Antarctic marine food web resulting from climate variability and the historic harvesting of seals and whales by humans. Specifically this study will recover and analyze modern (<20 year old), historic (20-200 year old) and ancient (200-10,000 year old) penguin and other krill predator tissues to track their past diets and population movements relative to shifts in climate and the availability of Antarctic krill. Understanding how krill predators were affected by these factors in the past will allow us to better understand how these predators, the krill they depend on, and the Antarctic marine ecosystem as a whole will respond to current challenges such as global climate change and an expanding commercial fishery for Antarctic krill. The project will further the NSF goals of training new generations of scientists and of making scientific discoveries available to the general public. This project will support the cross-institutional training of undergraduate and graduate students in advanced analytical techniques in the fields of ecology and biogeochemistry. In addition, this project includes educational outreach aimed encouraging participation in science careers by engaging K-12 students in scientific issues related to Antarctica, penguins, marine ecology, biogeochemistry, and global climate change. This research will help place recent ecological changes in the Southern Ocean into a larger historical context by examining decadal and millennial-scale shifts in the diets and population movements of Antarctic krill predators (penguins, seals, and squid) in concert with climate variability and commercial harvesting. This will be achieved by coupling advanced stable and radio isotope techniques, particularly compound-specific stable isotope analysis, with unprecedented access to modern, historical, and well-preserved paleo-archives of Antarctic predator tissues dating throughout the Holocene. This approach will allow the project to empirically test if observed shifts in Antarctic predator bulk tissue stable isotope values over the past millennia were caused by climate-driven shifts at the base of the food web in addition to, or rather than, shifts in predator diets due to a competitive release following the historic harvesting of krill eating whale and seals. In addition, this project will track the large-scale abandonment and reoccupation of penguin colonies around Antarctica in response to changes in climate and sea ice conditions over the past several millennia. These integrated field studies and laboratory analyses will provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms that influenced past shifts in the diets and population movements of charismatic krill predators such as penguins. This will allow for improved projections of the ecosystem consequences of future climate change and anthropogenic harvesting scenarios in the Antarctica that are likely to affect the availability of Antarctic krill. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-166 -60,-152 -60,-138 -60,-124 -60,-110 -60,-96 -60,-82 -60,-68 -60,-54 -60,-40 -60,-40 -61.8,-40 -63.6,-40 -65.4,-40 -67.2,-40 -69,-40 -70.8,-40 -72.6,-40 -74.4,-40 -76.2,-40 -78,-54 -78,-68 -78,-82 -78,-96 -78,-110 -78,-124 -78,-138 -78,-152 -78,-166 -78,180 -78,178 -78,176 -78,174 -78,172 -78,170 -78,168 -78,166 -78,164 -78,162 -78,160 -78,160 -76.2,160 -74.4,160 -72.6,160 -70.8,160 -69,160 -67.2,160 -65.4,160 -63.6,160 -61.8,160 -60,162 -60,164 -60,166 -60,168 -60,170 -60,172 -60,174 -60,176 -60,178 -60,-180 -60)) | POINT(-120 -69) | false | false | ||||||||
RAPID: Collaborative Research: Marine Ecosystem Response to the Larsen C Ice-Shelf Breakout: "Time zero"
|
1822289 1822256 |
2019-05-15 | Vernet, Maria; Smith, Craig |
|
Marine ecosystems under large ice shelves are thought to contain sparse, low-diversity plankton and seafloor communities due the low supply of food from productive sunlight waters. Past studies have shown sub-ice shelf ecosystems to change in response to altered oceanographic processes resulting from ice-shelve retreat. However, information on community changes and ecosystem structure under ice shelves are limited because sub-ice-shelf ecosystems have either been sampled many years after ice-shelf breakout, or have been sampled through small boreholes, yielding extremely limited spatial information. The recent breakout of the A-68 iceberg from the Larsen C ice shelf in the western Weddell Sea provides an opportunity to use a ship-based study to evaluate benthic communities and water column characteristics in an area recently vacated by a large overlying ice shelf. The opportunity will allow spatial assessments at the time of transition from an under ice-shelf environment to one initially exposed to conditions more typical of a coastal Antarctic marine setting. This RAPID project will help determine the state of a coastal Antarctic ecosystem newly exposed from ice-shelf cover and will aid in understanding of rates of community change during transition. The project will conduct a 10-day field program, allowing contrasts to be made of phytoplankton and seafloor megafaunal communities in areas recently exposed by ice-shelf loss to areas exposed for many decades. The project will be undertaken in a collaborative manner with the South Korean Antarctic Agency, KOPRI, by participating in a cruise in March/May 2018. Combining new information in the area of Larsen C with existing observations after the Larsen A and B ice shelf breakups further to the north, the project is expected to generate a dataset that can elucidate fundamental processes of planktonic and benthic community development in transition from food-poor to food-rich ecosystems. The project will provide field experience to two graduate students, a post-doctoral associate and an undergraduate student. Material from the project will be incorporated into graduate courses and the project will communicate daily work and unfolding events through social media and blogs while they explore this area of the world that is largely underexplored. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. | POLYGON((-59.5 -62,-59.05 -62,-58.6 -62,-58.15 -62,-57.7 -62,-57.25 -62,-56.8 -62,-56.35 -62,-55.9 -62,-55.45 -62,-55 -62,-55 -62.27,-55 -62.54,-55 -62.81,-55 -63.08,-55 -63.35,-55 -63.62,-55 -63.89,-55 -64.16,-55 -64.43,-55 -64.7,-55.45 -64.7,-55.9 -64.7,-56.35 -64.7,-56.8 -64.7,-57.25 -64.7,-57.7 -64.7,-58.15 -64.7,-58.6 -64.7,-59.05 -64.7,-59.5 -64.7,-59.5 -64.43,-59.5 -64.16,-59.5 -63.89,-59.5 -63.62,-59.5 -63.35,-59.5 -63.08,-59.5 -62.81,-59.5 -62.54,-59.5 -62.27,-59.5 -62)) | POINT(-57.25 -63.35) | false | false | |||||||
Seasonality, Summer Cooling, and Calibrating the Approach of the Icehouse in Late Eocene Antarctica
|
1543031 |
2019-04-23 | Ivany, Linda; Lu, Zunli; Junium, Christopher; Samson, Scott | In order to understand what environmental conditions might look like for future generations, we need to turn to archives of past times when the world was indeed warmer, before anyone was around to commit them to collective memory. The geologic record of Earth's past offers a glimpse of what could be in store for the future. Research by Ivany and her team looks to Antarctica during a time of past global warmth to see how seasonality of temperature and rainfall in coastal settings are likely to change in the future. They will use the chemistry of fossils (a natural archive of these variables) to test a provocative hypothesis about near-monsoonal conditions in the high latitudes when the oceans are warm. If true, we can expect high-latitude shipping lanes to become more hazardous and fragile marine ecosystems adapted to constant cold temperatures to suffer. With growing information about how human activities are likely to affect the planet in the future, we will be able to make more informed decisions about policies today. This research involves an international team of scholars, including several women scientists, training of graduate students, and a public museum exhibit to educate children about how we study Earth's ancient climate and what we can learn from it. Antarctica is key to an understanding how Earth?s climate system works under conditions of elevated CO2. The poles are the most sensitive regions on the planet to climate change, and the equator-to-pole temperature gradient and the degree to which high-latitude warming is amplified are important components for climate models to capture. Accurate proxy data with good age control are therefore critical for testing numerical models and establishing global patterns. The La Meseta Formation on Seymour Island is the only documented marine section from the globally warm Eocene Epoch exposed in outcrop on the continent; hence its climate record is integral to studies of warming. Early data suggest the potential for strongly seasonal precipitation and runoff in coastal settings. This collaboration among paleontologists, geochemists, and climate modelers will test this using seasonally resolved del-18O data from fossil shallow marine bivalves to track the evolution of seasonality through the section, in combination with independent proxies for the composition of summer precipitation (leaf wax del-D) and local seawater (clumped isotopes). The impact of the anticipated salinity stratification on regional climate will be evaluated in the context of numerical climate model simulations. In addition to providing greater clarity on high-latitude conditions during this time of high CO2, the combination of proxy and model results will provide insights about how Eocene warmth may have been maintained and how subsequent cooling came about. As well, a new approach to the analysis of shell carbonates for 87Sr/86Sr will allow refinements in age control so as to allow correlation of this important section with other regions to clarify global climate gradients. The project outlined here will develop new and detailed paleoclimate records from existing samples using well-tuned as well as newer proxies applied here in novel ways. Seasonal extremes are climate parameters generally inaccessible to most studies but critical to an understanding of climate change; these are possible to resolve in this well-preserved, accretionary-macrofossil-bearing section. This is an integrated study that links marine and terrestrial climate records for a key region of the planet across the most significant climate transition in the Cenozoic. | None | POINT(-56.5 -64.25) | false | false | ||||||||
Methylmercury in Antarctic Krill Microbiomes
|
1543412 |
2019-03-31 | Schaefer, Jeffra; Reinfelder, John; Barkar, T. |
|
Marine food webs can concentrate monomethylmercury (MMHg), a neurotoxin in mammals, in upper trophic level consumers. Despite their remoteness, coastal Antarctic marine ecosystems accumulate and biomagnify MMHg to levels observed at lower latitudes and in the Arctic. Marine sediments and other anoxic habitats in the oceans are typical areas where methylation of mercury occurs and these are likely places where MMHg is being produced. Krill, and more specifically their digestive tracts, may be a previously unaccounted for site where the production of MMHg may be occurring in the Antarctic. If monomethylmercury production is occurring in krill, current views regarding bioaccumulation in the food web and processes leading to the production and accumulation of mercury in the Antarctic Ocean could be better informed, if not transformed. This project will conduct a preliminary assessment of the krill gut microbiomes, the microbiome's genomic content and potential for production of monomethyl mercury by detecting the genes involved in mercury transformations. By analyzing the krill gut microbiome, the project will provide insights regarding animal-microbe interactions and their potential role in globally important biogeochemical cycles. This project will conduct a preliminary assessment of the krill gut microbiomes, the microbiomes genomic content and potential for production of monomethylmercury. The diversity and metabolic profiles of microorganisms in krill digestive tracts will be evaluated using massively parallel Illumina DNA sequencing technology to produce 16S rRNA gene libraries and assembled whole metagenomes. The project will also quantify the abundance and expression of Hg methylation genes, hgcAB, and identify their taxonomic affiliations in the microbiome communities. Environmental metagenomes, 16S rRNA gene inventories produced from this project will provide the polar science community with valuable databases and experimental tools with which to examine coastal Antarctic microbial ecology and biogeochemistry. The project will seek to provide a wider window into the diversity of extremophile microbial communities and the identification of potentially unique and useful bioactive compounds. In addition to public education and outreach. This project will train graduate students and provide educational and outreach opportunities at the participating institutions | None | POINT(-69.09295 -66.8017) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: RAPID/Workshop- Antarctic Ecosystem Research following Ice Shelf Collapse and Iceberg Calving Events
|
1750630 |
2019-02-15 | Smith, Craig | No dataset link provided | Worldwide publicity surrounding the calving of an iceberg the size of Delaware in July 2017 from the Larsen C Ice Shelf on the eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula presents a unique and time-sensitive opportunity for research and education on polar ecosystems in a changing climate. The goal of this project was to convene a workshop, drawing from the large fund of intellectual capital in the US and international Antarctic research communities. The two-day workshop was designed to bring scientists with expertise in Antarctic biological, ecological, and ecosystem sciences to Florida State University to share knowledge, identify important research knowledge gaps, and outline strategic plans for research. Major outcomes from the project were as follows. The international workshop to share and review knowledge concerning the response of Antarctic ecosystems to ice-shelf collapse was held at the Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory (FSUCML) on 18-19 November 2017. Thirty-eight U.S. and international scientists attended the workshop, providing expertise in biological, ecological, geological, biogeographical, and glaciological sciences. Twenty-six additional scientists were either not able to attend or were declined because of having reached maximum capacity of the venue or for not responding to our invitation before the registration deadline. The latest results of ice-shelf research were presented, providing an overview of the current scientific knowledge and understanding of the biological, ecological, geological and cryospheric processes associated with ice-shelf collapse and its ecosystem-level consequences. In addition, several presentations focused on future plans to investigate the impacts of the recent Larsen C collapse. The following presentations were given at the meeting: 1) Cryospheric dynamics and ice-shelf collapse – past and future (M. Truffer, University of Alaska, Fairbanks) 2) The geological history and geological impacts of ice-shelf collapse on the Antarctic Peninsula (Scottt Ishman, Amy Leventer) 3) Pelagic ecosystem responses to ice-shelf collapse (Mattias Cape, Amy Leventer) 4) Benthic ecosystem response to ice-shelf collapse (Craig Smith, Pavica Sršen, Ann Vanreusel) 5) Larsen C and biotic homogenization of the benthos (Richard Aronson, James McClintock, Kathryn Smith, Brittany Steffel) 6) British Antarctic Survey: plans for Larsen C investigations early 2018 and in the future (Huw Griffiths) 7) Feedback on the workshop “Climate change impacts on marine ecosystems: implications for management of living resources and conservation” held 19-22 September 2017, Cambridge, UK (Alex Rogers) 8) Past research activities and plans for Larsen field work by the Alfred Wegener Institute, Germany (Charlotte Havermans, Dieter Piepenburg. One of the salient points emerging from the presentations and ensuing discussions was that, given our poor abilities to predict ecological outcomes of ice-shelf collapses, major cross-disciplinary efforts are needed on a variety of spatial and temporal scales to achieve a broader, predictive understanding of ecosystem consequences of climatic warming and ice-shelf failure. As part of the workshop, the FSUCML Polar Academy Team—Dr. Emily Dolan, Dr. Heidi Geisz, Barbara Shoplock, and Dr. Jeroen Ingels—initiated AntICE: "Antarctic Influences of Climate Change on Ecosystems" (AntICE). They reached out to various groups of school children in the local area (and continue to do so). The AntICE Team have been interacting with these children at Wakulla High School and Wakulla Elementary in Crawfordville; children from the Cornerstone Learning Community, Maclay Middle School, Gilchrist Elementary, and the School of Arts and Sciences in Tallahassee; and the Tallahassee-area homeschooling community to educate them about Antarctic ecosystems and ongoing climate change. The underlying idea was to make the children aware of climatic changes in the Antarctic and their effect on ecosystems so they, in turn, can spread this knowledge to their communities, family and friends – acting as ‘Polar Ambassadors’. We collaborated with the Polar-ICE project, an NSF-funded educational project that established the Polar Literacy Initiative. This program developed the Polar Literacy Principles, which outline essential concepts to improve public understanding of Antarctic and Arctic ecosystems. In the Polar Academy work, we used the Polar Literacy principles, the Polar Academy Team’s own Antarctic scientific efforts, and the experience of the FSU outreach and education program to engage with the children. We focused on the importance of Antarctic organisms and ecosystems, the uniqueness of its biota and the significance of its food webs, as well as how all these are changing and will change further with climate change. Using general presentations, case studies, scientific methodology, individual experiences, interactive discussions and Q&A sessions, the children were guided through the many issues Antarctic ecosystems are facing. Over 300 'Polar ambassadors' attended the interactive lectures and afterwards took their creativity to high latitudes by creating welcome letters, displays, dioramas, sculptures, videos and online media to present at the scientific workshop. Over 50 projects were created by the children (Please see supporting files for images). We were also joined by a photographer, Ryan David Reines, to document the event. More information, media and links to online outreach products are available at https://marinelab.fsu.edu/labs/ingels/outreach/polar-academy/ | POLYGON((-64 -66,-63.3 -66,-62.6 -66,-61.9 -66,-61.2 -66,-60.5 -66,-59.8 -66,-59.1 -66,-58.4 -66,-57.7 -66,-57 -66,-57 -66.3,-57 -66.6,-57 -66.9,-57 -67.2,-57 -67.5,-57 -67.8,-57 -68.1,-57 -68.4,-57 -68.7,-57 -69,-57.7 -69,-58.4 -69,-59.1 -69,-59.8 -69,-60.5 -69,-61.2 -69,-61.9 -69,-62.6 -69,-63.3 -69,-64 -69,-64 -68.7,-64 -68.4,-64 -68.1,-64 -67.8,-64 -67.5,-64 -67.2,-64 -66.9,-64 -66.6,-64 -66.3,-64 -66)) | POINT(-60.5 -67.5) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: Fjord Ecosystem Structure and Function on the West Antarctic Peninsula - Hotspots of Productivity and Biodiversity? (FjordEco)
|
1443680 1443733 1443705 |
2019-02-13 | Winsor, Peter; Truffer, Martin; Smith, Craig; Powell, Brian; Merrifield, Mark; Vernet, Maria; Kohut, Josh | Marine communities along the western Antarctic Peninsula are highly productive ecosystems which support a diverse assemblage of charismatic animals such as penguins, seals, and whales as well as commercial fisheries such as that on Antarctic krill. Fjords (long, narrow, deep inlets of the sea between high cliffs) along the central coast of the Peninsula appear to be intense, potentially climate sensitive, hotspots of biological production and biodiversity, yet the structure and dynamics of these fjord ecosystems are very poorly understood. Because of this intense biological activity and the charismatic fauna it supports, these fjords are also major destinations for a large Antarctic tourism industry. This project is an integrated field and modeling program to evaluate physical oceanographic processes, glacial inputs, water column community dynamics, and seafloor bottom community structure and function in these important yet little understood fjord systems. These Antarctic fjords have characteristics that are substantially different from well-studied Arctic fjords, likely yielding much different responses to climate warming. This project will provide major new insights into the dynamics and climate sensitivity of Antarctic fjord ecosystems, highlighting contrasts with Arctic sub-polar fjords, and potentially transforming our understanding of the ecological role of fjords in the rapidly warming west Antarctic coastal marine landscape. The project will also further the NSF goal of training new generations of scientists, providing scientific training for undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students. This includes the unique educational opportunity for undergraduates to participate in research cruises in Antarctica and the development of a novel summer graduate course on fjord ecosystems. Internet based outreach activities will be enhanced and extended by the participation of a professional photographer who will produce magazine articles, websites, radio broadcasts, and other forms of public outreach on the fascinating Antarctic ecosystem. This project will involve a 15-month field program to test mechanistic hypotheses concerning oceanographic and glaciological forcing, and phytoplankton and benthic community response in the Antarctic fjords. Those efforts will be followed by a coupled physical/biological modeling effort to evaluate the drivers of biogeochemical cycles in the fjords and to explore their potential sensitivity to enhanced meltwater and sediment inputs. Fieldwork over two oceanographic cruises will utilize moorings, weather stations, and glacial, sea-ice and seafloor time-lapse cameras to obtain an integrated view of fjord ecosystem processes. The field team will also make multiple shipboard measurements and will use towed and autonomous underwater vehicles to intensively evaluate fjord ecosystem structure and function during spring/summer and autumn seasons. These integrated field and modeling studies are expected to elucidate fundamental properties of water column and sea bottom ecosystem structure and function in the fjords, and to identify key physical-chemical-glaciological forcing in these rapidly warming ecosystems. | POLYGON((-66 -64,-65.6 -64,-65.2 -64,-64.8 -64,-64.4 -64,-64 -64,-63.6 -64,-63.2 -64,-62.8 -64,-62.4 -64,-62 -64,-62 -64.1,-62 -64.2,-62 -64.3,-62 -64.4,-62 -64.5,-62 -64.6,-62 -64.7,-62 -64.8,-62 -64.9,-62 -65,-62.4 -65,-62.8 -65,-63.2 -65,-63.6 -65,-64 -65,-64.4 -65,-64.8 -65,-65.2 -65,-65.6 -65,-66 -65,-66 -64.9,-66 -64.8,-66 -64.7,-66 -64.6,-66 -64.5,-66 -64.4,-66 -64.3,-66 -64.2,-66 -64.1,-66 -64)) | POINT(-64 -64.5) | false | false | ||||||||
Collaborative Research: Phytoplankton Phenology in the Antarctic: Drivers, Patterns, and Implications for the Adelie Penguin
|
1341440 1341558 1341547 |
2018-11-20 | Jin, Meibing; Stroeve, Julienne; Ji, Rubao | The aim of study is to understand how climate-related changes in snow and ice affect predator populations in the Antarctic, using the Adélie penguin as a focal species due to its long history as a Southern Ocean 'sentinel' species and the number of long-term research programs monitoring its abundance, distribution, and breeding biology. Understanding the environmental factors that control predator population dynamics is critically important for projecting the state of populations under future climate change scenarios, and for designing better conservation strategies for the Antarctic ecosystem. For the first time, datasets from a network of observational sites for the Adélie penguin across the entire Antarctic will be combined and analyzed, with a focus on linkages among the ice environment, primary production, and the population responses of Adélie penguins. The project will also further the NSF goals of making scientific discoveries available to the general public and of training new generations of scientists. The results of this project can be used to illustrate intuitively to the general public the complex interactions between ice, ocean, pelagic food web and top predators. This project also offers an excellent platform to demonstrate the process of climate-change science - how scientists simulate climate change scenarios and interpret model results. This project supports the training of undergraduate and graduate students in the fields of polar oceanography, plankton and seabird ecology, coupled physical-biological modeling and mathematical ecology. The results will be broadly disseminated to the general oceanographic research community through scientific workshops, conferences and peer-reviewed journal articles, and to undergraduate and graduate education communities, K-12 schools and organizations, and the interested public through web-based servers using existing infrastructure at the investigators' institutions. The key question to be addressed in this project is how climate impacts the timing of periodic biological events (phenology) and how interannual variation in this periodic forcing influences the abundance of penguins in the Antarctic. The focus will be on the timing of ice algae and phytoplankton blooms because the high seasonality of sea ice and associated pulsed primary productivity are major drivers of the Antarctic food web. This study will also examine the responses of Adélie penguins to changes in sea ice dynamics and ice algae-phytoplankton phenology. Adélie penguins, like many other Antarctic seabirds, are long-lived, upper trophic-level predators that integrate the effects of sea ice on the food web at regional scales, and thus serve as a reliable biological indicator of environmental changes. The proposed approach is designed to accommodate the limits of measuring and modeling the intermediate trophic levels between phytoplankton and penguins (e.g., zooplankton and fish) at the pan-Antarctic scale, which are important but latent variables in the Southern Ocean food web. Through the use of remotely sensed and in situ data, along with state of the art statistical approaches (e.g. wavelet analysis) and numerical modeling, this highly interdisciplinary study will advance our understanding of polar ecosystems and improve the projection of future climate change scenarios. | POLYGON((-180 -60,-144 -60,-108 -60,-72 -60,-36 -60,0 -60,36 -60,72 -60,108 -60,144 -60,180 -60,180 -63,180 -66,180 -69,180 -72,180 -75,180 -78,180 -81,180 -84,180 -87,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -87,-180 -84,-180 -81,-180 -78,-180 -75,-180 -72,-180 -69,-180 -66,-180 -63,-180 -60)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | ||||||||
LTER Palmer, Antarctica (PAL): Land-Shelf-Ocean Connectivity, Ecosystem Resilience and Transformation in a Sea-Ice Influenced Pelagic Ecosystem
|
2023425 1440435 |
2018-05-11 | Ducklow, Hugh; Martinson, Doug; Schofield, Oscar | The Palmer Antarctica LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) site has been in operation since 1990. The goal of all the LTER sites is to conduct policy-relevant research on ecological questions that require tens of years of data, and cover large geographical areas. For the Palmer Antarctica LTER, the questions are centered around how the marine ecosystem west of the Antarctica peninsula is responding to a climate that is changing as rapidly as any place on the Earth. For example, satellite observations over the past 35 years indicate the average duration of sea ice cover is now ~90 days (3 months!) shorter than it was. The extended period of open water has implications for many aspects of ecosystem research, with the concurrent decrease of Adèlie penguins within this region regularly cited as an exemplar of climate change impacts in Antarctica. Cutting edge technologies such as autonomous underwater (and possibly airborne) vehicles, seafloor moorings, and numerical modeling, coupled with annual oceanographic cruises, and weekly environmental sampling, enables the Palmer Antarctica LTER to expand and bridge the time and space scales needed to assess climatic impacts. This award includes for the first time study of the roles of whales as major predators in the seasonal sea ice zone ecosystem. The team will also focus on submarine canyons, special regions of enhanced biological activity, along the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). The current award's overarching research question is: How do seasonality, interannual variability, and long term trends in sea ice extent and duration influence the structure and dynamics of marine ecosystems and biogeochemical cycling? Specific foci within the broad question include: 1. Long-term change and ecosystem transitions. What is the sensitivity or resilience of the ecosystem to external perturbations as a function of the ecosystem state? 2. Lateral connectivity and vertical stratification. What are the effects of lateral transports of freshwater, heat and nutrients on local ocean stratification and productivity and how do they drive changes in the ecosystem? 3. Top-down controls and shifting baselines. How is the ecosystem responding to the cessation of whaling and subsequent long-term recovery of whale stocks? 4. Foodweb structure and biogeochemical processes. How do temporal and spatial variations in foodweb structure influence carbon and nutrient cycling, export, and storage? The broader impacts of the award leverage local educational partnerships including the Sandwich, MA STEM Academy, the New England Aquarium, and the NSF funded Polar Learning and Responding (PoLAR) Climate Change Education Partnership at Columbia's Earth Institute to build new synergies between Arctic and Antarctic, marine and terrestrial scientists and students, governments and NGOs. The Palmer Antarctic LTER will also conduct appropriate cross LTER site comparisons, and serve as a leader in information management to enable knowledge-building within and beyond the Antarctic, oceanographic, and LTER communities. | POLYGON((-80 -63,-78.3 -63,-76.6 -63,-74.9 -63,-73.2 -63,-71.5 -63,-69.8 -63,-68.1 -63,-66.4 -63,-64.7 -63,-63 -63,-63 -63.8,-63 -64.6,-63 -65.4,-63 -66.2,-63 -67,-63 -67.8,-63 -68.6,-63 -69.4,-63 -70.2,-63 -71,-64.7 -71,-66.4 -71,-68.1 -71,-69.8 -71,-71.5 -71,-73.2 -71,-74.9 -71,-76.6 -71,-78.3 -71,-80 -71,-80 -70.2,-80 -69.4,-80 -68.6,-80 -67.8,-80 -67,-80 -66.2,-80 -65.4,-80 -64.6,-80 -63.8,-80 -63)) | POINT(-71.5 -67) | false | false | ||||||||
Collaborative Research in IPY: Abrupt Environmental Change in the Larsen Ice Shelf System, a Multidisciplinary Approach -- Cryosphere and Oceans
|
0732711 0732655 0732983 0732651 0732625 0732602 |
2018-02-01 | Truffer, Martin; Gordon, Arnold; Huber, Bruce; Mosley-Thompson, Ellen; Leventer, Amy; Vernet, Maria; Smith, Craig; Thompson, Lonnie G. | Like no other region on Earth, the northern Antarctic Peninsula represents a spectacular natural laboratory of climate change and provides the opportunity to study the record of past climate and ecological shifts alongside the present-day changes in one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth. This award supports the cryospheric and oceano-graphic components of an integrated multi-disciplinary program to address these rapid and fundamental changes now taking place in Antarctic Peninsula (AP). By making use of a marine research platform (the RV NB Palmer and on-board helicopters) and additional logistical support from the Argentine Antarctic program, the project will bring glaciologists, oceanographers, marine geologists and biologists together, working collaboratively to address fundamentally interdisciplinary questions regarding climate change. The project will include gathering a new, high-resolution paleoclimate record from the Bruce Plateau of Graham Land, and using it to compare Holocene- and possibly glacial-epoch climate to the modern period; investigating the stability of the remaining Larsen Ice Shelf and rapid post-breakup glacier response ? in particular, the roles of surface melt and ice-ocean interactions in the speed-up and retreat; observing the contribution of, and response of, oceanographic systems to ice shelf disintegration and ice-glacier interactions. Helicopter support on board will allow access to a wide range of glacial and geological areas of interest adjacent to the Larsen embayment. At these locations, long-term in situ glacial monitoring, isostatic uplift, and ice flow GPS sites will be established, and high-resolution ice core records will be obtained using previously tested lightweight drilling equipment. Long-term monitoring of deep water outflow will, for the first time, be integrated into changes in ice shelf extent and thickness, bottom water formation, and multi-level circulation by linking near-source observations to distal sites of concentrated outflow. The broader impacts of this international, multidisciplinary effort are that it will significantly advance our understanding of linkages amongst the earth's systems in the Polar Regions, and are proposed with international participation (UK, Spain, Belgium, Germany and Argentina) and interdisciplinary engagement in the true spirit of the International Polar Year (IPY). It will also provide a means of engaging and educating the public in virtually all aspects of polar science and the effects of ongoing climate change. The research team has a long record of involving undergraduates in research, educating high-performing graduate students, and providing innovative and engaging outreach products to the K-12 education and public media forums. Moreover, forging the new links both in science and international Antarctic programs will provide a continuing legacy, beyond IPY, of improved understanding and cooperation in Antarctica. | POLYGON((-68 -57.8,-66.78 -57.8,-65.56 -57.8,-64.34 -57.8,-63.12 -57.8,-61.9 -57.8,-60.68 -57.8,-59.46 -57.8,-58.24 -57.8,-57.02 -57.8,-55.8 -57.8,-55.8 -58.8,-55.8 -59.8,-55.8 -60.8,-55.8 -61.8,-55.8 -62.8,-55.8 -63.8,-55.8 -64.8,-55.8 -65.8,-55.8 -66.8,-55.8 -67.8,-57.02 -67.8,-58.24 -67.8,-59.46 -67.8,-60.68 -67.8,-61.9 -67.8,-63.12 -67.8,-64.34 -67.8,-65.56 -67.8,-66.78 -67.8,-68 -67.8,-68 -66.8,-68 -65.8,-68 -64.8,-68 -63.8,-68 -62.8,-68 -61.8,-68 -60.8,-68 -59.8,-68 -58.8,-68 -57.8)) | POINT(-61.9 -62.8) | false | false | ||||||||
NSFGEO-NERC: Evolutionary Response of Southern Ocean Diatoms to Environmental Change
|
1543245 |
2017-12-29 | Rynearson, Tatiana; Bishop, Ian | The research will examine how diatoms (an important group of plankton in the Southern Ocean) adapt to environmental change. Diatoms will be sampled from different regions of the Southern Ocean, including the Drake Passage, the Pacific Sector of the Southern Ocean and the Ross Sea and examined to determine the range of genetic variation among diatoms in these regions. Experiments on a range of diatoms will be conducted in home laboratories and will be aimed at measuring shifts in physiological capacities over many generations in response to directional changes in the environment (temperature and pH). The information on the genetic diversity of field populations combined with information on potential rates of adaptability and genome changes will provide insight into ways in which polar marine diatoms populations may respond to environmental changes that may occur in surface oceans in the future or may have occurred during past climate conditions. Such information allows better modeling of biogeochemical cycles in the ocean as well as improves our abilities to interpret records of past ocean conditions. The project will support a doctoral student and a postdoctoral researcher as well as several undergraduate students. These scientists will learn the fundamentals of experimental evolution, a skill set that is being sought in the fields of biology and oceanography. The project also includes a collaboration with the Metcalf Institute for Marine and Environmental Reporting that will design and facilitate a session focused on current research related to evolution and climate change to be held at the annual conference of the National Association of Science Writers (NASW). Both physiological and genetic variation are key parameters for understanding evolutionary processes in phytoplankton but they are essentially unknown for Southern Ocean diatoms. The extent to which these two factors determine plasticity and adaptability in field populations and the interaction between them will influence how and whether cold-adapted diatoms can respond to changing environments. This project includes a combination of field work to identify genetic diversity within diatoms using molecular approaches and experiments in the lab to assess the range of physiological variation in contemporary populations of diatoms and evolution experiments in the lab to assess how the combination of genetic diversity and physiological variation influence the evolutionary potential of diatoms under a changing environment. This research will uncover general relationships between physiological variation, genetic diversity, and evolutionary potential that may apply across microbial taxa and geographical regions, substantially improving efforts to predict shifts in marine ecosystems. Results from this study can be integrated into developing models that incorporate evolution to predict ecosystem changes under future climate change scenarios. | None | None | false | false | ||||||||
PostDoctoral Research Fellowship
|
1103428 |
2017-10-10 | Thurber, Andrew | The biota of the world's seafloor is fueled by bursts of seasonal primary production. For food-limited sediment communities to persist, a balance must exist between metazoan consumption of and competition with bacteria, a balance which likely changes through the seasons. Polar marine ecosystems are ideal places to study such complex interactions due to stark seasonal shifts between heterotrophic and autotrophic communities, and temperatures that may limit microbial processing of organic matter. The research will test the following hypotheses: 1) heterotrophic bacteria compete with macrofauna for food; 2) as phytoplankton populations decline macrofauna increasingly consume microbial biomass to sustain their populations; and 3) in the absence of seasonal photosynthetic inputs, macrofaunal biodiversity will decrease unless supplied with microbially derived nutrition. Observational and empirical studies will test these hypotheses at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, where a high-abundance macro-infaunal community is adapted to this boom-and-bust cycle of productivity. The investigator will mentor undergraduates from a predominantly minority-serving institution, in the fields of invertebrate taxonomy and biogeochemistry. The general public and young scientists will be engaged through lectures at local K-12 venues and launch of an interactive website. The results will better inform scientists and managers about the effects of climate change on polar ecosystems and the mechanisms of changing productivity patterns on global biodiversity. | POLYGON((165 -77,165.5 -77,166 -77,166.5 -77,167 -77,167.5 -77,168 -77,168.5 -77,169 -77,169.5 -77,170 -77,170 -77.1,170 -77.2,170 -77.3,170 -77.4,170 -77.5,170 -77.6,170 -77.7,170 -77.8,170 -77.9,170 -78,169.5 -78,169 -78,168.5 -78,168 -78,167.5 -78,167 -78,166.5 -78,166 -78,165.5 -78,165 -78,165 -77.9,165 -77.8,165 -77.7,165 -77.6,165 -77.5,165 -77.4,165 -77.3,165 -77.2,165 -77.1,165 -77)) | POINT(167.5 -77.5) | false | false | ||||||||
RUI: Synergistic effects of Ocean Acidification and Warming on Larval Development in Antarctic Fishes
|
1142122 |
2017-08-15 | Miller, Nathan; Todgham, Anne | Ocean acidification and increased temperatures are projected to be the primary impacts of global climate change on polar marine ecosystems over the next century. While recent research has focused on the effects of these drivers on calcifying organisms, less is known about how these changes may affect vertebrates. This research will focus on two Antarctic fishes, Trematomus bernacchii and Pagothenia borchgrevinki. Fish eggs and larvae will be collected in McMurdo Sound and reared under different temperature and pH regimes. Modern techniques will be used to examine subsequent changes in physiology, growth, development and gene expression over both short and long timescales. The results will fill a missing gap in our knowledge about the response of non-calcifying organisms to projected changes in pH and temperature. Results will be widely disseminated through publications as well as through presentations at national and international meetings; raw data will also be made available through open-access, web-based databases. This project will support the research and training of three graduate and three undergraduate students. As well, this project will foster the development of two modules on climate change and ocean acidification for an Introduction to Biology course. | POLYGON((166.163 -76.665,166.2635 -76.665,166.364 -76.665,166.4645 -76.665,166.565 -76.665,166.6655 -76.665,166.766 -76.665,166.8665 -76.665,166.967 -76.665,167.0675 -76.665,167.168 -76.665,167.168 -76.782,167.168 -76.899,167.168 -77.016,167.168 -77.133,167.168 -77.25,167.168 -77.367,167.168 -77.484,167.168 -77.601,167.168 -77.718,167.168 -77.835,167.0675 -77.835,166.967 -77.835,166.8665 -77.835,166.766 -77.835,166.6655 -77.835,166.565 -77.835,166.4645 -77.835,166.364 -77.835,166.2635 -77.835,166.163 -77.835,166.163 -77.718,166.163 -77.601,166.163 -77.484,166.163 -77.367,166.163 -77.25,166.163 -77.133,166.163 -77.016,166.163 -76.899,166.163 -76.782,166.163 -76.665)) | POINT(166.6655 -77.25) | false | false | ||||||||
Ocean Acidification Seascape: Linking Natural Variability and Anthropogenic changes in pH and Temperature to Performance in Calcifying Antarctic Marine Invertebrates
|
1246202 |
2016-09-13 | Hofmann, Gretchen |
|
The research supported in this project will examine the effects of environmental change on a key Antarctic marine invertebrate, a pelagic mollusk, the pteropod, Limacina helicina antarctica. There are two main activities in this project: (1) to deploy oceanographic equipment ? in this case, autonomously recording pH sensors called SeaFETs and other devices that record temperature and salinity, and (2) to use these environmental data in the laboratory at McMurdo Station to study the response of the marine invertebrates to future changes in water quality that is expected in the next few decades. Notably, changes in oceanic pH (aka ocean acidification) and ocean warming are projected to be particularly threatening to calcifying marine organisms in cold-water, high latitude seas, making tolerance data on these organisms a critical research need in Antarctic marine ecosystems. These Antarctic shelled-animals are especially vulnerable to dissolution stress from ocean acidification because they currently inhabit seawater that is barely at the saturation level to support biogenic calcification. Indeed, these polar animals are considered to be the 'first responders' to chemical changes in the surface oceans. Thus, this project will lead to information about the adaptive capacity of L. helcina antarctica. From an ecological perspective this is important because this animal is a critical part of the Antarctic food chain in coastal waters and changes in its abundance will impact other species. Finally, the research conducted in this project will serve as a training and educational opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students as well as postdoctoral scholars. | POLYGON((163.317388 -77.3354,163.6520742 -77.3354,163.9867604 -77.3354,164.3214466 -77.3354,164.6561328 -77.3354,164.990819 -77.3354,165.3255052 -77.3354,165.6601914 -77.3354,165.9948776 -77.3354,166.3295638 -77.3354,166.66425 -77.3354,166.66425 -77.386975,166.66425 -77.43855,166.66425 -77.490125,166.66425 -77.5417,166.66425 -77.593275,166.66425 -77.64485,166.66425 -77.696425,166.66425 -77.748,166.66425 -77.799575,166.66425 -77.85115,166.3295638 -77.85115,165.9948776 -77.85115,165.6601914 -77.85115,165.3255052 -77.85115,164.990819 -77.85115,164.6561328 -77.85115,164.3214466 -77.85115,163.9867604 -77.85115,163.6520742 -77.85115,163.317388 -77.85115,163.317388 -77.799575,163.317388 -77.748,163.317388 -77.696425,163.317388 -77.64485,163.317388 -77.593275,163.317388 -77.5417,163.317388 -77.490125,163.317388 -77.43855,163.317388 -77.386975,163.317388 -77.3354)) | POINT(164.990819 -77.593275) | false | false | |||||||
Ocean Acidification Category 1: Identifying Adaptive Responses of Polar Fishes in a Vulnerable Ecosystem
|
1040957 1040945 1447291 |
2015-01-12 | Place, Sean; Sarmiento, Jorge; Dudycha, Jeffry; Kwon, Eun-Young | The proposed research will investigate the interacting and potentially synergistic influence of two oceanographic features - ocean acidification and the projected rise in mean sea surface temperature - on the performance of Notothenioids, the dominant fish of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. Understanding the joint effects of acidification and temperature rise on these fish is a vital component of predicting the resilience of coastal marine ecosystems. Notothenioids have repeatedly displayed a narrow window of physiological tolerances when subjected to abiotic stresses. Given that evolutionary adaptation may have led to finely-tuned traits with narrow physiological limits in these organisms, this system provides a unique opportunity to examine physiological trade-offs associated with acclimation to the multi-stressor environment expected from future atmospheric CO2 projections. Understanding these trade-offs will provide valuable insight into the capacity species have for responses to climate change via phenotypic plasticity. As an extension to functional measurements, this study will use evolutionary approaches to map variation in physiological responses onto the phylogeny of these fishes and the genetic diversity within species. These approaches offer insight into the historical constraints and future potential for evolutionary optimization. The research will significantly expand the genomic resources available to polar researchers and will support the training of graduate students and a post doc at an EPSCoR institution. Research outcomes will be incorporated into classroom curriculum. | POLYGON((-180 90,-144 90,-108 90,-72 90,-36 90,0 90,36 90,72 90,108 90,144 90,180 90,180 72,180 54,180 36,180 18,180 0,180 -18,180 -36,180 -54,180 -72,180 -90,144 -90,108 -90,72 -90,36 -90,0 -90,-36 -90,-72 -90,-108 -90,-144 -90,-180 -90,-180 -72,-180 -54,-180 -36,-180 -18,-180 0,-180 18,-180 36,-180 54,-180 72,-180 90)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | ||||||||
Effect of Ocean Acidification on Early Life History Stages of the Antarctic Sea Urchins Sterechinus Neumayeri
|
0944201 |
2014-12-23 | Hofmann, Gretchen |
|
Abstract<br/><br/>The research examine the effects of ocean acidification on embryos and larvae of a contemporary calcifier in the coastal waters of Antarctica, the sea urchin Sterechinus neumayeri. The effect of future ocean acidification is projected to be particularly threatening to calcifying marine organisms in coldwater, high latitude seas, making tolerance data on these organisms a critical research need in Antarctic marine ecosystems. Due to a high magnesium (Mg) content of their calcitic hard parts, echinoderms are especially vulnerable to dissolution stress from ocean acidification because they currently inhabit seawater that is barely at the saturation level to support biogenic calcification. Thus, cold-water, high latitude species with a high Mg-content in their hard parts are considered to be the 'first responders' to chemical changes in the surface oceans. Studies in this proposal will use several metrics to examine the physiological plasticity of contemporary urchin embryos and larvae to CO2-acidified seawater, to mimic the scenarios defined by IPCC models and by analyses of future acidification predicted for the Southern Ocean. The research also will investigats the biological consequences of synergistic interactions of two converging climate change-related stressors - CO2- driven ocean acidification and ocean warming. Specifically the research will (1) assess the effect of CO2-acidified seawater on the development of early embryos and larvae, (2) using morphometrics, examine changes in the larval endoskeleton in response to development under the high-CO2 conditions of ocean acidification, (3) using a DNA microarray, profile changes in gene expression for genes involved in biomineralization and other important physiological processes, and (4) measure costs and physiological consequences of development under conditions of ocean acidification. The proposal will support the training of undergraduates, graduate students and a postdoctoral fellow. The PI also will collaborate with the UC Santa Barbara Gevirtz Graduate School of Education to link the biological effects of ocean acidification to the chemical changes expected for the Southern Ocean using the 'Science on a Sphere' technology. This display will be housed in an education and public outreach center, the Outreach Center for Teaching Ocean Science (OCTOS), a new state-of-the-art facility under construction at UC Santa Barbara. | POLYGON((-180 -68,-177 -68,-174 -68,-171 -68,-168 -68,-165 -68,-162 -68,-159 -68,-156 -68,-153 -68,-150 -68,-150 -69,-150 -70,-150 -71,-150 -72,-150 -73,-150 -74,-150 -75,-150 -76,-150 -77,-150 -78,-153 -78,-156 -78,-159 -78,-162 -78,-165 -78,-168 -78,-171 -78,-174 -78,-177 -78,180 -78,178 -78,176 -78,174 -78,172 -78,170 -78,168 -78,166 -78,164 -78,162 -78,160 -78,160 -77,160 -76,160 -75,160 -74,160 -73,160 -72,160 -71,160 -70,160 -69,160 -68,162 -68,164 -68,166 -68,168 -68,170 -68,172 -68,174 -68,176 -68,178 -68,-180 -68)) | POINT(-175 -73) | false | false | |||||||
Photoheterotrophic Microbes in the West Antarctic Peninsula Marine Ecosystem
|
0838830 |
2013-12-16 | Cottrell, Matthew; David, Kirchman |
|
This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5).<br/><br/>Light quality and availability are likely to change in polar ecosystems as ice coverage and thickness decrease. How microbes adjust to these and other changes will have huge impacts on the polar marine ecosystems. Little is known about photoheterotrophic prokaryotes, which are hypothesized to gain a metabolic advantage by harvesting light energy in addition to utilizing dissolved organic matter (DOM). Photoheterotrophy is not included in current models of carbon cycling and energy flow. This research will examine three questions: 1. Are photoheterotrophic microbes present and active in Antarctic waters in winter and summer? 2. Does community structure of photoheterotrophs shift between summer and winter? 3. Which microbial groups assimilate more DOM in light than in the dark? The research will test hypotheses about activity of photoheterotrophs in winter and in summer, shifts in community structure between light and dark seasons and the potentially unique impacts of photoheterotrophs on biogeochemical processes in the Antarctic. The project will directly support a graduate student, will positively impact the NSF REU program at the College of Marine and Earth Studies, and will include students from the nation?s oldest historical minority college. The results will be featured during weekly tours of Lewes facilities (about 1000 visitors per year) and during Coast Day, an annual open-house that attracts about 10,000 visitors. | POLYGON((-64.079666 -64.77966,-64.07576590000001 -64.77966,-64.0718658 -64.77966,-64.0679657 -64.77966,-64.0640656 -64.77966,-64.06016550000001 -64.77966,-64.0562654 -64.77966,-64.0523653 -64.77966,-64.04846520000001 -64.77966,-64.0445651 -64.77966,-64.040665 -64.77966,-64.040665 -64.78326100000001,-64.040665 -64.786862,-64.040665 -64.790463,-64.040665 -64.794064,-64.040665 -64.797665,-64.040665 -64.801266,-64.040665 -64.804867,-64.040665 -64.808468,-64.040665 -64.812069,-64.040665 -64.81567,-64.0445651 -64.81567,-64.04846520000001 -64.81567,-64.0523653 -64.81567,-64.0562654 -64.81567,-64.06016550000001 -64.81567,-64.0640656 -64.81567,-64.0679657 -64.81567,-64.0718658 -64.81567,-64.07576590000001 -64.81567,-64.079666 -64.81567,-64.079666 -64.812069,-64.079666 -64.808468,-64.079666 -64.804867,-64.079666 -64.801266,-64.079666 -64.797665,-64.079666 -64.794064,-64.079666 -64.790463,-64.079666 -64.786862,-64.079666 -64.78326100000001,-64.079666 -64.77966)) | POINT(-64.0601655 -64.797665) | false | false | |||||||
The Sea Ice System in Antarctic Summer, Oden Southern Ocean Expedition (OSO 2010-11)
|
0839053 |
2013-05-03 | Ackley, Stephen |
|
Several aspect of the seasonal melting and reformation cycle of Antarctic sea ice appear to be divergent from those occurring in the Arctic. This is most clearly demonstrated by the dramatic diminishing extent and thinning of the Arctic sea ice, to be contrasted to the changes in Antarctic sea-ice extent, which recently (decadaly) shows small increases. Current climate models do not resolve this discrepancy which likely results from both a lack of relevant observational sea-ice data in the Antarctic, along with inadequacies in the physical parameterization of sea-ice properties in climate models.<br/><br/>Researchers will take advantage of the cruise track of the I/B Oden during transit through the Antarctic sea-ice zones in the region of the Bellingshausen, Amundsen and Ross (BAR) seas on a cruise to McMurdo Station. Because of its remoteness and inaccessibility, the BAR region is of considerable scientific interest as being one of the last under described and perhaps unexploited marine ecosystems left on the planet .<br/><br/>A series of on station and underway observations of sea ice properties will be undertaken, thematically linked to broader questions of summer ice survival and baseline physical properties (e.g. estimates of heat and salt fluxes). In situ spatiotemporal variability of sea-ice cover extent, thickness and snow cover depths will be observed. | POLYGON((-180 -67.05,-170.9866 -67.05,-161.9732 -67.05,-152.9598 -67.05,-143.9464 -67.05,-134.933 -67.05,-125.9196 -67.05,-116.9062 -67.05,-107.8928 -67.05,-98.8794 -67.05,-89.866 -67.05,-89.866 -68.1033,-89.866 -69.1566,-89.866 -70.2099,-89.866 -71.2632,-89.866 -72.3165,-89.866 -73.3698,-89.866 -74.4231,-89.866 -75.4764,-89.866 -76.5297,-89.866 -77.583,-98.8794 -77.583,-107.8928 -77.583,-116.9062 -77.583,-125.9196 -77.583,-134.933 -77.583,-143.9464 -77.583,-152.9598 -77.583,-161.9732 -77.583,-170.9866 -77.583,180 -77.583,178.57 -77.583,177.14 -77.583,175.71 -77.583,174.28 -77.583,172.85 -77.583,171.42 -77.583,169.99 -77.583,168.56 -77.583,167.13 -77.583,165.7 -77.583,165.7 -76.5297,165.7 -75.4764,165.7 -74.4231,165.7 -73.3698,165.7 -72.3165,165.7 -71.2632,165.7 -70.2099,165.7 -69.1566,165.7 -68.1033,165.7 -67.05,167.13 -67.05,168.56 -67.05,169.99 -67.05,171.42 -67.05,172.85 -67.05,174.28 -67.05,175.71 -67.05,177.14 -67.05,178.57 -67.05,-180 -67.05)) | POINT(-142.083 -72.3165) | false | false | |||||||
Collaborative Research: Do Crustacean Zooplankton Play a Pivotal Role in Structuring Heterotrophic Plankton Communities in the Ross Sea?
|
0542111 0542456 |
2010-05-04 | Lonsdale, Darcy; Caron, Bruce | Recent studies of marine ecosystems show conflicting evidence for trophic cascades, and in particular the relative strength of the crustacean zooplankton-phytoplankton link. The Ross Sea is a natural laboratory for investigating this apparent conflict. It is a site of seasonally high abundances of phytoplankton, characterized by regions of distinct phytoplankton taxa; the southcentral polynya is strongly dominated by the colony-forming prymnesiophyte Phaeocystis antarctica, while coastal regions of this sea are typically dominated by diatoms or flagellate species. Recent studies indicate that, while the south-central polynya exhibits a massive phytoplankton bloom, the poor food quality of P. antarctica for many crustacean zooplankton prevents direct utilization of much of this phytoplankton bloom. Rather, evidence suggests that indirect utilization of this production may be the primary mechanism by which carbon and energy become available to those higher trophic levels. Specifically, we hypothesize that nano and microzooplankton constitute an important food source for crustacean zooplankton (largely copepods and juvenile euphausiids) during the summer period in the Ross Sea where the phytoplankton assemblage is dominated by the prymnesiophyte. In turn, we also hypothesize that predation by copepods (and other Crustacea) controls and structures the species composition of these protistan assemblages. We will occupy stations in the south-central Ross Sea Polynya (RSP) and Terra Nova Bay (TNB) during austral summer to test these hypotheses. We hypothesize that the diatom species that dominate the phytoplankton assemblage in TNB constitute a direct source of nutrition to herbivorous/omnivorous zooplankton (relative to the situation in the south-central RSP). That is, the contribution of heterotrophic protists to crustacean diets will be reduced in TNB. Our research will address fundamental gaps in our knowledge of food web structure and trophic cascades, and provide better understanding of the flow of carbon and energy within the biological community of this perennially cold sea. The PIs will play active roles in public education (K-12) via curriculum development (on Antarctic biology) and teacher trainer activities in the Centers for Ocean Science Education Excellence (COSEE-West), an innovative, NSF-funded program centered at USC and UCLA. | POLYGON((-179.9999 -43.5663,-143.99993 -43.5663,-107.99996 -43.5663,-71.99999 -43.5663,-36.00002 -43.5663,-0.000050000000016 -43.5663,35.99992 -43.5663,71.99989 -43.5663,107.99986 -43.5663,143.99983 -43.5663,179.9998 -43.5663,179.9998 -46.99537,179.9998 -50.42444,179.9998 -53.85351,179.9998 -57.28258,179.9998 -60.71165,179.9998 -64.14072,179.9998 -67.56979,179.9998 -70.99886,179.9998 -74.42793,179.9998 -77.857,143.99983 -77.857,107.99986 -77.857,71.99989 -77.857,35.99992 -77.857,-0.000049999999987 -77.857,-36.00002 -77.857,-71.99999 -77.857,-107.99996 -77.857,-143.99993 -77.857,-179.9999 -77.857,-179.9999 -74.42793,-179.9999 -70.99886,-179.9999 -67.56979,-179.9999 -64.14072,-179.9999 -60.71165,-179.9999 -57.28258,-179.9999 -53.85351,-179.9999 -50.42444,-179.9999 -46.99537,-179.9999 -43.5663)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | ||||||||
Antarctic Pack Ice Seals: Ecological Interactions with Prey and the Environment
|
9815961 |
2010-05-04 | Bengtson, John |
|
9815961 BENGTSON The pack ice region surrounding Antarctica contains at least fifty percent of the world's population of seals, comprising about eighty percent of the world's total pinniped biomass. As a group, these seals are among the dominant top predators in Southern Ocean ecosystems, and the fluctuation in their abundance, growth patterns, life histories, and behavior provide a potential source of information about environmental variability integrated over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. This proposal was developed as part of the international Antarctic Pack Ice Seals (APIS) program, which is aimed to better understand the ecological relationships between the distribution of pack ice seals and their environment. During January-February, 2000, a research cruise through the pack ice zone of the eastern Ross Sea and western Amundsen Sea will be conducted to survey and sample along six transects perpendicular to the continental shelf. Each of these transects will pass through five environmental sampling strata: continental shelf zone, Antarctic slope front, pelagic zone, the ice edge front, and the open water outside the pack ice zone. All zones but open water will be ice-covered to some degree. Surveys along each transect will gather data on bathymetry, hydrography, sea ice dynamics and characteristics, phytoplankton and ice algae stocks, prey species (e.g., fish, cephalopods and euphausiids), and seal distribution, abundance and diet. This physical and trophic approach to investigating ecological interactions among pack ice seals, prey and the physical environment will allow the interdisciplinary research team to test the hypothesis that there are measurable physical and biological features in the Southern Ocean that result in area of high biological activity by upper trophic level predators. Better insight into the interplay among pack ice seals and biological and physical features of Antarctic marine ecosystems will allow for a better prediction of fluctuation in seal population in the context of environmental change. | POLYGON((-179.99905 -43.56728,-143.99915 -43.56728,-107.99925 -43.56728,-71.99935 -43.56728,-35.99945 -43.56728,0.000450000000001 -43.56728,36.00035 -43.56728,72.00025 -43.56728,108.00015 -43.56728,144.00005 -43.56728,179.99995 -43.56728,179.99995 -47.058498,179.99995 -50.549716,179.99995 -54.040934,179.99995 -57.532152,179.99995 -61.02337,179.99995 -64.514588,179.99995 -68.005806,179.99995 -71.497024,179.99995 -74.988242,179.99995 -78.47946,144.00005 -78.47946,108.00015 -78.47946,72.00025 -78.47946,36.00035 -78.47946,0.000450000000001 -78.47946,-35.99945 -78.47946,-71.99935 -78.47946,-107.99925 -78.47946,-143.99915 -78.47946,-179.99905 -78.47946,-179.99905 -74.988242,-179.99905 -71.497024,-179.99905 -68.005806,-179.99905 -64.514588,-179.99905 -61.02337,-179.99905 -57.532152,-179.99905 -54.040934,-179.99905 -50.549716,-179.99905 -47.058498,-179.99905 -43.56728)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
Research on Ocean-Atmosphere Variability and Ecosystem Response in the Ross Sea (ROAVERRS)
|
9419605 9896356 |
2010-05-04 | Dunbar, Robert |
|
This project is an interdisciplinary study, titled Research on Ocean-Atmosphere Variability and Ecosystem Response in the Ross Sea (ROAVERRS), of atmospheric forcing, ocean hydrography, sea ice dynamics, primary productivity, and pelagic-benthic coupling in the southwestern Ross Sea, Antarctica. The primary goal is to examine how changes in aspects of the polar climate system, in this case wind and temperature, combine to influence marine productivity on a large antarctic continental shelf. In the Ross Sea, katabatic winds and mesocyclones influence the spatial and temporal distribution of sea ice as well as the upper ocean mixed layer depth, and thus control primary production within the sea ice as well as in the open water system. The structure, standing stock and productivity of bottom- dwelling biological communities are also linked to meteorological processes through interseasonal and interannual variations in horizontal and vertical fluxes of organic carbon produced in the upper ocean. Linkages among the atmospheric, oceanic, and biological systems will be investigated during a three-year field study of the southwestern Ross Sea ecosystem. Direct measurements will include regional wind and air temperatures derived from automatic weather stations; ice cover, ice movement, and sea surface temperatures derived from a variety of satellite-based sensors; hydrographic characteristics of the upper ocean and primary productivity in the ice and in the water derived from research cruises and satellite studies; vertical flux of organic material and water movement derived from oceanographic moorings containing sediment traps and current meters, and the abundance, distribution, and respiration rates of biological communities on the sea floor, derived from box cores, benthic photographs and shipboard incubations. Based on archived meteorological data, it is expected that the atmospheric variability during the study period will be such that changes in airflow pat terns and their influence on oceanographic and biological patterns can be monitored, and their direct and indirect linkages that are the focus of the research can be deduced. Results from this study will contribute to our knowledge of atmospheric and oceanic forcing of marine ecosystems, and lead to a better understanding of marine ecosystem response to climatic variations. *** | POLYGON((-180 -43.56493,-144.00001 -43.56493,-108.00002 -43.56493,-72.00003 -43.56493,-36.00004 -43.56493,-0.000049999999987 -43.56493,35.99994 -43.56493,71.99993 -43.56493,107.99992 -43.56493,143.99991 -43.56493,179.9999 -43.56493,179.9999 -47.023783,179.9999 -50.482636,179.9999 -53.941489,179.9999 -57.400342,179.9999 -60.859195,179.9999 -64.318048,179.9999 -67.776901,179.9999 -71.235754,179.9999 -74.694607,179.9999 -78.15346,143.99991 -78.15346,107.99992 -78.15346,71.99993 -78.15346,35.99994 -78.15346,-0.000050000000016 -78.15346,-36.00004 -78.15346,-72.00003 -78.15346,-108.00002 -78.15346,-144.00001 -78.15346,-180 -78.15346,-180 -74.694607,-180 -71.235754,-180 -67.776901,-180 -64.318048,-180 -60.859195,-180 -57.400342,-180 -53.941489,-180 -50.482636,-180 -47.023783,-180 -43.56493)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
LEXEN: Protistan Biodiversity in Antarctic Marine Ecosystems: Molecular Biological and Traditional Approaches
|
9714299 |
2010-05-04 | Caron, David; Jeffries, Martin |
|
*** Caron 9714299 The analysis of microbial biodiversity of extreme environments is difficult because traditional methods for examining diversity are often ineffective for assessing species richness within these communities. Additional difficulties arise due to the difficulties of recreating and maintaining pertinent environmental features during sample collection and procession. This study focuses on the protistan assemblages (algae and protozoa) in the sea ice, sediment and ocean environments of the Ross Sea, Antarctica. The identification of protistan species in natural assemblages traditionally has entailed direct microscopical analyses as well as enrichment and culture techniques for assessing biodiversity. Determination of diversity for these assemblages in therefore susceptible to biases as a consequence of sampling, enrichment and culture, as well as selective losses due to sample preservation and concentration for microscopy. The goals of this project are: (1) to develop and apply molecular biological approaches to assess species diversity of small protists (algae and protozoa smaller than 100 micrometers) in ocean water, sea ice and sediment environments and (2) to obtain baseline physiological information on the growth rates, feeding rates and growth efficiencies of cultured protozoa under pertinent temperature regimes. Molecular biological studies will involve the use of PCR-based protocols to examine small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (srDNA) diversity. Approaches and techniques developed will be applicable to any other water body or sediment and would provide a means to examine the representativeness of protistan cultures in extant culture collections. *** | POLYGON((-179.9984 -43.56676,-143.99865 -43.56676,-107.9989 -43.56676,-71.99915 -43.56676,-35.9994 -43.56676,0.000349999999997 -43.56676,36.0001 -43.56676,71.99985 -43.56676,107.9996 -43.56676,143.99935 -43.56676,179.9991 -43.56676,179.9991 -47.057693,179.9991 -50.548626,179.9991 -54.039559,179.9991 -57.530492,179.9991 -61.021425,179.9991 -64.512358,179.9991 -68.003291,179.9991 -71.494224,179.9991 -74.985157,179.9991 -78.47609,143.99935 -78.47609,107.9996 -78.47609,71.99985 -78.47609,36.0001 -78.47609,0.000349999999997 -78.47609,-35.9994 -78.47609,-71.99915 -78.47609,-107.9989 -78.47609,-143.99865 -78.47609,-179.9984 -78.47609,-179.9984 -74.985157,-179.9984 -71.494224,-179.9984 -68.003291,-179.9984 -64.512358,-179.9984 -61.021425,-179.9984 -57.530492,-179.9984 -54.039559,-179.9984 -50.548626,-179.9984 -47.057693,-179.9984 -43.56676)) | POINT(0 -89.999) | false | false | |||||||
SGER: Science-of-Opportunity Aboard Icebreaker Oden: Bioactive trace metals in the Amundsen and Ross Seas
|
0741403 |
2009-03-10 | Sherrell, Robert | No dataset link provided | Abstract<br/><br/>The research objective is (1) to determine the distributions and dynamics of a full suite of bioactive trace metals in dissolved and suspended particulate forms, along sampling transects of the Amundsen and Ross Seas. And (2) to test the sensitivity of overall cellular metal stoichiometry (metal/carbon ratios) to natural gradients in species assemblage and Fe availability. Our earlier findings from a single Ross Sea station and from a Drake Passage crossing suggest that Fe-limited phytoplankton cells are unusually enriched in Zn, Cu and Cd relative to biomass carbon, with strong implications for the biogeochemical cycling of these elements relative to carbon fluxes in the Southern Ocean. In collaboration with other researchers on the cruise, we will also measure metal stoichiometry of cells exposed to predicted 2010 temperature and carbon dioxide levels in shipboard incubation studies, as a window into possible effects of climate change on metals biogeochemistry in these regions. This proposal will support close international collaborations and lasting infrastructure development as US and Swedish scientists, and more importantly, their students, work toward shared the shared goal of understanding a region that is experiencing one of the fastest rates of climate change on the globe. Trace metal micro-nutrients are a key control on the productivity of Antarctic marine ecosystems. Our results will be made widely available through research publications and internet-available databases, and public outreach through COSEE at Rutgers University. | POLYGON((-180 -69,-172.5 -69,-165 -69,-157.5 -69,-150 -69,-142.5 -69,-135 -69,-127.5 -69,-120 -69,-112.5 -69,-105 -69,-105 -69.9,-105 -70.8,-105 -71.7,-105 -72.6,-105 -73.5,-105 -74.4,-105 -75.3,-105 -76.2,-105 -77.1,-105 -78,-112.5 -78,-120 -78,-127.5 -78,-135 -78,-142.5 -78,-150 -78,-157.5 -78,-165 -78,-172.5 -78,180 -78,178.8 -78,177.6 -78,176.4 -78,175.2 -78,174 -78,172.8 -78,171.6 -78,170.4 -78,169.2 -78,168 -78,168 -77.1,168 -76.2,168 -75.3,168 -74.4,168 -73.5,168 -72.6,168 -71.7,168 -70.8,168 -69.9,168 -69,169.2 -69,170.4 -69,171.6 -69,172.8 -69,174 -69,175.2 -69,176.4 -69,177.6 -69,178.8 -69,-180 -69)) | POINT(-148.5 -73.5) | false | false |