Tuesday, 20 August
15:30 – 17:00
Aula Magna left hall

 

Uncertainties of future projections of the Baltic Sea

Markus Meier, Leibniz Institute of Bltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) and Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI), markus.meier@io-warnemuende.de

Moa K. Edman, Kari J. Eilola, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute; Manja Placke, Thomas Neumann, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Helen C. Andersson, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute; Sandra-Esther Brunnabend, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Christian Dieterich, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute; Claudia Frauen, Rene Friedland, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Matthias Groger, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Bo G.Gustafsson, Stockholm University/University of Helsinki; Erik Gustafsson, Stockholm University; Alexey Isaev, Russian Academy of Science;, Madline Kniebusch, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Ivan Kuznetsov, Institute of Coastal Research; Barbel Muller-Karulis, Stockholm University; Anders Omstedt, University of Gothenburg; Vladimir Ryabchenko, Russian Academy of Science; Sofia Saraiva, University of Lisbon; Oleg P. Savchuk, Stockholm University

To estimate uncertainties in projections, a large multi-model ensemble for the Baltic Sea comprising 58 simulations with coupled physical-biogeochemical models for the 21^st century was assessed. Although the spread in projections is large, the simulations suggest that the Baltic Sea Action Plan may lead to a significantly improved marine ecosystem status despite changing climate.

To estimate uncertainties in projections, a large multi-model ensemble for the Baltic Sea comprising 58 simulations with coupled physical-biogeochemical models for the 21^st century was assessed. Uncertainties are caused by biases of regional and global climate models, unknown greenhouse gas emission and nutrient load scenarios and natural variability. We tested various strategies to narrow the uncertainty by weighting of ensemble members according to their skills. Although (1) the model simulations during the historical period are of different quality and (2) the assumptions on nutrient load levels during present and future periods differ between models considerably, the ensemble mean changes in biogeochemical variables in the Baltic proper with respect to nutrient load reductions are similar between the entire ensemble and a subset consisting only of the most reliable simulations. Further, we found that future climate change will amplify oxygen depletion. The impact of climate change is larger in case of higher nutrient loads. Hence, the implementation of the Baltic Sea Action Plan (BSAP) may lead to a significantly improved marine ecosystem status despite changing climate.

 

Can isotope composition of primary producers and consumers reflect basin-specific environmental changes in the Baltic Sea?

Camilla Liénart, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant sciences, Stockholm University, Sweden and Baltic Sea Center, Stockholm, Sweden, camilla.lienart@su.se

Andrius Garbaras, Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Center for Physical Science and Technology, Vilnius, Lithuania; Susanne Qvarfordt, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant sciences, Stockholm University, Sweden; Ellen Schagerström, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant sciences, Stockholm University, Sweden and Baltic Sea Center, Stockholm, Sweden; Helena Höglander, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant sciences, Stockholm University, Sweden; Johan Eklöf, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant sciences, Stockholm University, Sweden; Agnes Karlson, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant sciences, Stockholm University, Sweden and Baltic Sea Center, Stockholm, Sweden

Studies at various spatial scales help disentangle effects of local vs regional variability of environmental conditions on organisms diet and condition. Filamentous algae Cladophora spp. and key-suspension feeding bivalve Mytilus edulis were studied for isotopic ratios of decadal series from several sites along the latitudinal Baltic Sea gradient together with biotic and abiotic environmental data.

Analysing stables isotopes of carbon and nitrogen (δ¹³C, δ¹⁵N) in archived samples of sessile primary producers and consumers from long-term environmental monitoring programs offers a unique opportunity to study effects of global climatic and regional (e.g. eutrophication) environmental drivers on nutrient cycling and trophic interactions. Studies at various spatial scales help to disentangle the impact of local versus regional variability in organisms diet and condition. In the Baltic Sea, filamentous algae Cladophora spp. are favoured by eutrophication whereas the key-suspension feeding bivalve, Mytilus edulis is negatively impacted by increased precipitation and run-off from land. We investigate bulk and amino-acid (AA) isotopic ratios of decadal series of both taxa from several sites along the latitudinal Baltic Sea gradient together with oceanographic data, nutrient loading and phytoplankton composition. Preliminary results show that long-term decreasing trends observed for δ¹³C (both M. edulis and Cladophora spp.) are remarkably similar for the coastal sites in the Baltic proper and Bothnian Sea, supported by similar δ¹⁵N in phenylalanine, a source AA, among regions.

 

 

Consistent hydrodynamic changes in the Baltic Sea and North Sea as revealed by a coupled atmosphere ocean model ensemble

Matthias Gröger, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, matthias.groger@smhi.se

Christian Dieterich, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute; Markus Meier, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Rostock, Germany

International efforts to assess the climate change for European seas are marked by high uncertainties arising from different model and socio-economic scenarios. The only way to deal with the inherent uncertainty is to pursue climate projections in large ensembles. We present results from the largest ensemble for the North Sea and Baltic Sea using a coupled ocean atmosphere model.

Efforts to assess the climate change for European seas are marked by high uncertainties arising from different model and socio-economic scenarios. The only way to deal with the inherent uncertainty is to pursue climate projections in large ensembles. We present results from the largest ensemble for the North Sea and Baltic Sea using a coupled ocean atmosphere model.

Despite differences in the amplitude of hydrographic changes we clearly see consistent responses to climate change independent of the chosen scenario but with relevance to ecosystem functioning. Most striking is a reduced water exchange with the North East Atlantic as well as a weakening cyclonic circulation in the Skagerrak forced by changing wind fields. Changed circulation combined with an overall increase in the yearly mean precipitation causes strong freshening in the North Sea and the Baltic Sea with strongest impact in the Skagerrak and eastern North Sea. These changes translate nearly everywhere in an intensified pycnocline which in most regions likewise becomes shallower. We show this strongly impacts on nutrient cycling with cascading effects into highest trophic levels especially in the the Baltic Sea.

 

Freshwater discharge and terrestrial DOM as a drivers of marine productivity: challenging the role of mineral nutrients

Johan Wikner, Umeå University, johan.wikner@umu.se

Agneta Andersson, Umeå University; Ulf Båmstedt, Umeå University

Phosphorus and nitrogen have been the prime focus for measures to mitigate eutrophication. Field as well as experimental studies have observed marked effect of organic carbon discharged by rivers on coastal production. A mesocosm study corroborate field observations that organic carbon have an influence of coastal marine productivity exceeding that of concomitant discharge of mineral nutrients.

Phosphorus and nitrogen limitation have been the prime focus for controlling marine productivity and thereby measures to mitigate eutrophication. However, field as well as experimental studies have observed marked effect of organic carbon discharged by rivers on coastal production. A mesocosm study directly tested the interacting effects of a realistic increase in allochthonous dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and different mixing depths on the ratio of heterotrophic to autotrophic production (i.e. trophic balance). An autumn plankton community from the northern Bothnian Sea showed significantly decreased phytoplankton production (P) and somewhat increased bacterial production (B) with added DOC. In addition, increased mixing depth further reduced phytoplankton production. The shift towards net heterotrophy occurred irrespective of mixing depth, but with a stronger effect with a deep mixed layer (B/P quotient from 0.42 to 1.24). Without DOC addition there was no significant effect of the mixing depth. Our results corroborate field observations that organic carbon have an influence of coastal marine productivity exceeding that of concomitant discharge of mineral nutrients.

 

Resolving climate change effects by integrating responses to
multiple stressors over life history

Magnus Huss, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, magnus.huss@slu.se

Max Lindmark, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; Renee Van Dorst, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; Philip Jacobson, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; Anna Gårdmark, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

We address two major uncertainties in forecasting climate change effects on Baltic Sea fish. How the nature and strength of climate change effects vary over life history and how other climate stressors than temperature can modify predicted responses to climate change. We conclude that consideration of both multiple climate stressors and within-species variation is key for accurate predictions.

Two major uncertainties in forecasting climate change effects are to (1) understand how the nature and strength of climate change effects vary over life history and (2) understand how concurrent changes in climate stressors other than temperature can modify predicted responses to climate change. Here we present results from studies addressing these challenges. By analysing individual growth trajectories of ~13 000 unique individuals of Eurasian perch from an enclosed heated coastal Baltic Sea bay and an adjacent reference area, we found a large but size-specific increase in body growth after warming. Moreover, the strength of this response gradually increased over the 24-year warming period. We theoretically show how such interactive effects of size and temperature can induce shifts in fish population regulation and community structure. We also show that browning of waters, expected under climate change, can add to the negative and size-specific effects of temperature. We conclude by stressing that consideration of multiple climate stressors and within-species variation is key for accurate predictions on future fish production and composition in the Baltic Sea.

 

Phytoplankton reacts on climate change: extension of the vegetation period in the western Baltic Sea

Norbert Wasmund, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research, norbert.wasmund@io-warnemuende.de

Günther Nausch, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Monika Gerth, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research

Phenological shifts in phytoplankton biomass were investigated at a coastal station in the western Baltic Sea from 1989 to 2017. The spring bloom started earlier with a rate of 1.4 days/year, correlated with an increase in sunshine duration. The end of the autumn bloom was delayed with 3.1 days/year, correlated with an increase in water temperature.

Phenology is a well-known phenomenon in terrestrial ecosystems, but less investigated in aquatic ecosystems. Weekly phytoplankton monitoring at a coastal station in the western Baltic Sea from 1989 to 2017 revealed a much stronger prolongation of the vegetation period than that known from terrestrial areas. The vegetation period, defined by biomass and chla thresholds, increased by 126 or 128 days respectively within the 29-years period and extends recently from February to December. The spring bloom started earlier with a rate of 1.4 days/year and the end of the autumn bloom was delayed with 3.1 days/year. The earlier start of the vegetation period is correlated with a slight increase in sunshine duration during spring whereas the later end of the vegetation period is correlated with a strong increase in water temperature in autumn. The shifts in the spring and autumn blooms lead to a prolongation of the summer biomass minimum. The earlier spring bloom is mainly caused by the shift of the bloom of Skeletonema marinoi from May to February. The delay in the autumn bloom is induced by a retardation of dominant dinoflagellates and diatoms.

Wednesday, 21 August
11:15 – 12:45
Aula Magna left hall

 

Paleoecological trends and synchronicity between the open and coastal Baltic Proper

Elinor Andrén, Södertörn University, elinor.andren@sh.se

Lena Norbäck Ivarsson, Södertörn University; Mikael Lönn, Södertörn University; Falkje van Wirdum, Södertörn University; Matthias Moros, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Thomas Andrén, Södertörn University

We investigate millennial paleoecological trends in an off-shore sediment stratigraphy from the western Gotland Basin and compare recorded changes with several sites in the NW Baltic Proper coastal zone. The aim is to trace and date environmental change by using diatom and geochemistry stratigraphies and test if changes in the open Baltic Sea occur synchronous with changes in the coastal zone.

Paleoecological investigations using stratigraphical records are needed to provide fundamental data on the range of natural variation before ecosystems were highly impacted by humans, as well as information on the speed and direction of the changes. It has been suggested that changes in agricultural practice in the Baltic Sea drainage basin caused hypoxia in the bottom waters of the open Baltic Sea as early as medieval times, some 1000 years ago.

In this study we investigate millennial paleoecological trends in an off-shore sediment stratigraphy from the western Gotland Basin and compare recorded changes with several sites in the North-western Baltic Proper coastal zone (from Stockholm archipelago to Bråviken). The aim is to trace and date environmental change by using diatom and geochemistry stratigraphies and test if changes in the open Baltic Sea occur synchronous with changes in the coastal zone. Knowledge about the past coupling between the open and coastal Baltic Sea can be useful when evaluating potential delay in predicted improvements in the open basin when environmental measures are taken on land.

Seal exploitation in the Baltic Sea during the mid- and late Holocene

Aikaterini Glykou, Stockholm University, aikaterini.glykou@arklab.su.se

Gunilla Eriksson, Stockholm University; Hans Ahlgren, Stockholm University; Maiken Hemme Bro-Jorgensen, Stockholm University; Morten Tange Olsen, University of Copenhagen; Kerstin Lidén, Stockholm University

Seals (harp-, grey-, ringed- and harbour seals) were present in the Baltic Sea during different stages of the mid- and late Holocene and were exploited by prehistoric and historic coastal societies. By integrating archaeology, zooarchaeology, bioarchaeology, marine mammal ecology and environmental data we explore the impact of environmental changes and anthropogenic pressure on seal populations.

Harp seals (Phoca groenlandica), grey seals (Halichoerus gryphus), ringed seals (Phoca hispida) and harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) were present in the Baltic Sea during different stages of the mid- and late Holocene. Exploitation of aquatic resources was of great significance for the subsistence of prehistoric coastal societies of the Baltic region but seals continued to be exploited also during historical times. The Baltic Sea region underwent dramatic geological and climatic changes during the middle and late Holocene, especially 8000-3000 years BP, which presumably affected both seal and human populations. We explore the mutual interactions between humans and seals in a diachronic perspective. By integrating archaeology, zooarchaeology, bioarchaeology (isotopic and aDNA studies), marine mammal ecology and paleoenvironmental data we try to reconstruct the impact of environmental changes, climatic fluctuations and anthropogenic pressure on marine mammals during the mid- and late Holocene to explain increases and declines and even extinctions (harp seal) in seal populations.

The impact of climate change and other anthropogenic pressures on mercury in the Baltic Sea

Anne Soerensen, Stockhom University, anne.soerensen@aces.su.se

Erik Björn, Umeå University; Aleksandra Skrobonja, Umeå University; Amina Schartup, Harvard; Sylvain Bouchet, ETH; David Amouroux, Pau University; Liem Nguyen, Stockholm University; Erik Gustafsson, Baltic Sea Centre; Emma Undeman, Baltic Sea Centre; Bo Gustafsson, Baltic Sea Centre

Mercury is a toxin that bioaccumulates in aquatic food webs. We use field observations, lab experiments and biogeochemical modeling approaches to improve our understanding of the Baltic Sea mercury dynamics. Here we present an overview of our research focused on the impact of climate change and other anthropogenic pressures on mercury biogeochemical cycling, food web uptake and biomagnification.

Mercury is a neurotoxin that bioaccumulates in aquatic food webs in the form of monomethylmercury. Mercury enters the Baltic Sea through wet deposition and river discharge but has also historically entered directly with wastewater into the sea. A range of steps controls how both new and legacy mercury found in the Baltic Sea water column and sediment impact food web concentrations. The main steps are transformation of inorganic mercury to organic methylmercury, uptake of methylmercury by phytoplankton, and biomagnification of methylmercury in the food web. We have used field observations, lab experiments and biogeochemical modeling approaches to improve our understanding of the mercury dynamics in the Baltic Sea. Here we will present an overview of our last five years of research focused on the impact of climate change and other anthropogenic pressures on mercury biogeochemical cycling, food web uptake and biomagnification. The studies show how changing mercury and nutrient loads, organic matter composition, extend of hypoxia and anoxia, and phytoplankton community size structure all impact the spatial and temporal variability of mercury in Baltic Sea fish.

Sediment remediation in situ with reactive sorbents, a cost-effective and sustainable technique to counteract polluted sediments in the Baltic Sea

Jonas Gunnarsson, DEEP, jonas.gunnarsson@su.se

Robert Rämö, DEEP; Caroline Raymond, DEEP; Johan Wikström, DEEP; Stefano Bonaglia, DEEP; Johanna Honkanen, DEEP; Gunno Renman, KTH; Agnieszka Renman, KTH; Pär Elander, Elander Miljoteknik

We present initial results of a project called CAPTIVE (CAPping with reactIVE sorbents), which aims at developing new reactive sorbents for remediation of contaminated sediments in situ, i.e. on site, as a more cost-effective and environmental sustainable alternative to dredging.

We present initial results of a project called CAPTIVE (CAPping with reactIVE sorbents), which aims at developing new reactive sorbents for remediation in situ of contaminated sediments in the Baltic Sea. Though in situ capping methods are recognized internationally, the use of capping in Sweden has so far been limited to the conventional isolation caps. This project investigates how thin-layer capping (TLC) with a composite reactive cap made out of two types of sorbents: a) carbonaceous (AC) and b) calcareous (Polonite®) can increase the sequestration of organic contaminants, metals and phosphate and offer an alternative to dredging. The project is focused on Oskarshamn, one of Sweden’s most contaminated harbors in the Baltic Sea. The dioxin concentrations of the harbor are the highest ever measured in coastal Swedish sediments. Preliminary results show that that the sediment’s toxicity to benthic amphipods could be decreased by 40 % by applying a TLC of granular AC, without causing negative effects on the amphipod. Results from microcosm studies where these new types of sorbents are tested separately and together as a composite cap to reduce environmental risks are discussed.

Do benthic community composition and ecological indices respond to contaminant concentrations in sediment?

Caroline Raymond, DEEP, Stockholm University, caroline.raymond@su.se

Jonas S Gunnarsson, DEEP, Stockholm University; Elena Gorokhova, ACES, Stockholm University; Agnes ML Karlson, DEEP, Stockholm University

The benthic community composition and derived ecological status was tested against both environmental and contaminant variables at 30 stations in the Baltic Sea. We found that anthropogenic contaminants affected both the benthic community composition and ecological status, which may need to be taken into account when benthic community composition is used as an indicator of eutrophication.

The benthic macrofauna community is used to assess indirect effects of eutrophication related pressures such as oxygen deficiency in bottom waters. However, some species are known to be sensitive also to contaminants. Hence, we tested what best explained benthic community composition and derived ecological status indices from 30 stations in the Baltic Sea using both environmental and contaminant variables; organic carbon and concentrations of metals and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediment, bottom water oxygen, salinity, temperature and surface chlorophyll. The community composition and the derived Swedish benthic quality index (BQI) were both best explained by the same combination of environmental variables; salinity, depth and PAHs. The abundance of the amphipod Monoporeia affinis was instead best explained by metals, chlorophyll and depth. The results suggest that benthic community composition, even at reference stations in the Baltic Sea, are impacted by anthropogenic contaminants and that this may need to be taken into account when benthic community composition is used as an indicator of eutrophication.

Tracing microplastics in aquatic environments based on sediment analogies

Kristina Enders, Leipniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), kristina.enders@io-warnemuende.de

Andrea Käppler, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF); Oliver Biniasch, IOW, ATB; Peter Feldens, IOW; Nicole Stollberg, IOW; Xaver Lange, IOW; Dieter Fischer, IPF; Klaus-Jochen Eichhorn, IPF; Sonja Oberbeckmann, IOW; Matthias Labrenz, IOW

We are establishing natural particle proxy variables such as sediment grain size for microplastic distribution mapping. The most promising method is called fractionated granulometric normalisation. Its application allows a more sensible comparison of MP data between study sites and improves accuracy of MP projections.

Microplastic (MP) abundances in the aquatic environment are commonly reported ""per site"" and compared without accounting for natural hydrodynamic processes governing the distribution of particles. We show that sound assessments and projections of MP critically depend on the normalisation for sediment characteristics to reduce inherent variability. This is based on significant correlations we detected between the occurrence of specific sediment grain size classes and MP fractions (≥ 500 µm) from the Warnow estuary bed, Germany. The relationship between high-density polymers and sediments exhibited an offset in size by one to two orders of magnitude which compensated their specific gravity differences. Low-density polymers correlated with the fine-sediment fraction (< 63 µm).

We call the approach of determining grain-size corrected MP abundances a fractionated granulometric normalisation and recommend it as a basis for future MP estimations and projections to overcome the existent sparsity of data. Current research in other Baltic Sea compartments will show whether this proxy can be used as a tool of broad applicability for more realistic MP distribution modelling and budgeting.

 

Wednesday, 21 August
14:00 – 15:00
Aula Magna left hall

 

Effects of bottom trawling on benthic sedimentary processes and seafloor integrity

Clare Bradshaw, Stockholm University, clare.bradshaw@su.se

The effect of bottom trawling on Baltic Sea seabeds is poorly understood. We present new data from a Baltic field experiment that showed physical disturbance, sediment resuspension and altered biogeochemical fluxes at the sediment-water interface due to trawling. Such data is needed for effective ecosystem assessment and fisheries management.

The effect of bottom trawling on Baltic Sea seabeds is poorly understood. However, there is evidence from other seas that benthic fauna and sediments may be severely disturbed by this fishing method. Suspended sediment increases turbidity and may be transported into other less disturbed areas. For example, in the southern Baltic, where there is bottom trawling for cod, there is a risk that trawl-suspended sediment could drift into cod spawning areas at this sensitive time of its life cycle.

We present new data from a field experiment that quantified a range of parameters from hours to days after the passage of an otter trawler. Acoustic surveys, video and sediment sampling demonstrated physical disturbance to the seabed and resuspension of sediments, and CTD profiling and water sampling indicated spatial and temporal changes in water turbidity and biogeochemical fluxes at the sediment-water interface.

Quantification of seabed disturbance, sediment suspension and nutrient flux changes caused by trawling are needed for the effective planning of MPAs, sustainable fisheries management and assessment of seafloor integrity and ecological status of benthic ecosystems in the Baltic Sea.

 

Warming alters the effect of fishing on the size spectra of an exploited temperate food web

Max Lindmark, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, max.lindmark@slu.se

Asta Audzijonyte, University of Tasmania; Julia Blanchard, University of Tasmania; Anna Gårdmark, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

We develop a size-based model of the Baltic Sea food web to assess how size-structure, species composition and biomass production are affected by warming under different scenarios of fisheries exploitation and minimum landing size. Warming and fishing negatively and interactively affects size-at-age of older fish. Our model can inform about potential future yields in a multispecies scenario.

Resolving the combined effect of climate warming and exploitation on food webs is key for predicting future biomass production, structure and potential yields of marine fishes. Size-based models have found that bottom-up processes are important drivers of size-structure and yield at the ecosystem level. However, we know little about the joint effects of warming and exploitation when ecological interactions are resolved not only by body size but also by the species’ ecology. Using the offshore Baltic Sea food web as a case study, we assess how size-structure, species composition and biomass production are affected by warming under different scenarios of exploitation and minimum landing size. The model is able to reproduce realistic biomass densities in the relatively stable post regime shift time period (1990-2000). Evaluation of steady-state properties at simulated higher temperatures suggests that warming and fishing negatively and interactively affects size-at-age of older fish in particular. Our model can be used to evaluate how warming and exploitation interactively affect the Baltic Sea fish community, which can inform about potential future yields in a multispecies scenario.

 

Through the Heads of Fishes: Consequences of Baltic Sea Hypoxia Exposure in Cod and Flounder Revealed by Otolith Chemistry

Karin Limburg, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, klimburg@esf.edu

Melvin Samson, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry; Michele Casini, Institute of Marine Research, Dept. of Aquatic Resources, SLU

Baltic cod and flounder were assessed for lifetime histories of hypoxia exposure, by quantifying chemical hypoxia proxies in their otoliths (ear-stones). Cod exposure over the past 4 decades mirrors the extent of hypoxia, showing reduced growth and body condition with increasing exposure. Flounder collected along a west-east gradient showed great variability, but deeper dwellers were more exposed.

Cod (Gadus morhua) and flounder (Platichthys flesus and P. solemdali) are demersal fishes supporting important Baltic fisheries. Originally thought to be two ecotypes, flounder was recently split into two species, with P. solemdali identified as the shallow ecotype. We explored exposure to hypoxia by measuring redox-sensitive trace elements in otoliths. The redox-sensitive element Mn in ratio to growth-sensitive Mg can be quantified in otoliths from birth to death, providing a lifetime history of hypoxia exposure in individual fish. Archival cod otoliths were sampled across 4 decades, including the lowest (early 1990s) and highest (2010s) hypoxia; flounder were sampled in 2014-2015, along a west-east gradient. We compared interannual hypoxia exposure and relative tolerance to hypoxia measured by growth and condition. Cod most exposed to hypoxia had reduced growth (39% smaller lengths at Age-3) and lower body condition. Flounder showed great spatial variability, but P. flesus caught in Hanö Bay were significantly more exposed to hypoxia than P. solemdali, as hypothesized. Our results provide new information about hypoxia exposure of Baltic fishes and impacts on their performance.

 

Canaries in the Baltic Sea “Coal Mine”: Fish Earstones Indicate changing environment

Yvette Heimbrand, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Aquatic Resources, Lysekil, Sweden, yvette.heimbrand@slu.se

Karin Limburg, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, United States; Karin Hüssy, Technical University of Denmark, National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Kemitorvet, building 202, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, , Denmark.; Michele Casini, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Aquatic Resources, Lysekil, Sweden

Otolith microchemistry serves as an indicator to track and reconstruct marine environmental changes. Eastern Baltic cod otoliths from Stone Age to present time were examined to explore the accelerating climate impacts in the Baltic Sea causing exposure to hypoxia, metabolic stress and biological changes in the fish.

The historical climate and anthropogenic impacts of the Baltic Sea have left “geochemical footprints,” which can be interpreted with fish otolith microchemical tracers. To reveal the causes of declines in growth rate, nutritional condition, maximum length and maturation at a smaller size, the chemical composition of Eastern Baltic cod otoliths from Stone Age to present time was examined. “Otolith life history transects” of chemical proxies, reflecting biogeochemical processes and physical drivers in the marine environment, as well as fish physiology and metabolism, provided detailed information of the life history of individual fish. Increased exposure to hypoxia over time as well as events of major Baltic inflows could be quantified by Mn/Ca and Mn/Mg. Metabolic stress affecting the growth was estimated by Mg/Ca and P/Ca, whereas the degree of movement was documented by Sr/Ca and Ba/Ca. The results fill crucial knowledge gaps and provide new insights on the biology of the Eastern Baltic cod that could improve the management of this threatened stock.

 

Wednesday, 21 August
15:30 – 16:30
Aula Magna left hall

 

Regaining good ecological status in a eutrophied coastal bay of the Baltic Sea

Linda Kumblad, Stockholm University, linda.kumblad@su.se

Emil Rydin, BalticSea2020

After systematic restoration efforts in the catchment and an Al treatment to inhibit internal P recycling, the eutrophied semi-enclosed bay Björnöfjärden reached good ecological status for most parameters. The concentrations of P and phytoplankton were cut by half, the secci depth was increased, benthic vegetation was found deeper, and the habitat suitable for fish and benthic fauna expanded.

Eutrophication of Baltic Sea coastal ecosystems may result in bottom water oxygen deficiency that in turn promote sediment-phosphorus (P) release. Systematic restoration efforts in and around the eutrophied semi-enclosed Björnöfjärden has reduced the P supply to the water by around 70%. To increase the sediment-P retention, dissolved aluminium were injected into the anoxic sediment, thereby inhibiting P recycling. The P concentration and the phytoplankton biomass was cut by half. Six years after the treatment, the water column transparency was increased, submerged vegetation found deeper, and the habitat suitable for fish and benthic fauna expanded. The bay has reached good ecological status for most parameters, but not for bottom water oxygen status. For successful remediation in coastal areas, increased sediment-P retention in anoxic sediments may be needed together with measures in the catchment area to remediate eutrophied marine bays.

 

Dominant hydro-climatic effects on eutrophication management efficiency in a Swedish coastal bay

Guillaume Vigouroux, Stockholm University, guillaume.vigouroux@natgeo.su.se

Yuanying Chen, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; Anders Jönsson, COWI AB; Vladimir Cvetkovic, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; Georgia Destouni, Stockholm University

Eutrophication is a common problem in the Baltic Sea and its coastal areas. We investigate eutrophication-relevant water quality aspects in a coastal bay under hydro-climatic and management scenarios. The latter become less effective under warming-wetting conditions, highlighting climate change is an important driver that can counteract effects of eutrophication management measures.

Eutrophication is a common problem in the Baltic Sea and its coastal areas, with both land and open-sea drivers affecting the coastal conditions. The drivers include hydro-climatic forcings, land-based freshwater and nutrient discharges, and partly eutrophic open sea conditions. Robust management of coastal systems requires consistent consideration of these drivers and various land/sea management options for improving coastal water quality.

In this study, we apply a management-focused approach to model water quality in the Södertälje Bay, south of Stockholm. We investigate the effects on eutrophication-relevant quality variables of possible land- and sea-based management scenarios under 3 hydro-climatic scenarios spanning the range of recent past conditions.

Our results show that, for hydro-climatic conditions close to their recent average, management scenarios can yield significantly improved eutrophication status. However, management scenarios become less effective under warming-wetting scenarios. This highlights the changing hydro-climate as a key driver for coastal eutrophication that can substantially counteract effects of management measures.

 

Mussel farming – a measure against eutrophication in the Baltic Sea?

Nils Hedberg, Baltic Sea Centre, nils.hedberg@su.se

Nils Kautsky, Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences; Linda Kumblad, Baltic Sea Centre; Sofia A. Wikström, Baltic Sea Centre

Mussel farms are suggested as an environmental measure against eutrophication. However, there are still uncertainties when it comes to efficiency, scaling, predictability, economy and the risk of negative environmental effects, especially for mussel farms in the low salinity of the Baltic Sea. Altogether, mussel farms may not be a suitable measure against eutrophication in the Baltic Sea.

The ability to remove nutrients and clear the water has resulted in that shellfish farms are suggested as an environmental measure against eutrophication. Specialized nutrient mitigation mussel farms, designed to remove nutrients, have been launched in the Baltic Sea. The presentation will discuss mussel farming as an environmental measure, including uncertainties when it comes to efficiency, scaling, predictability, economy and the risk of negative environmental effects. Of the nutrients ingested by the mussels, only 25% are stored in biomass and can be removed at harvest, while 75% are shed as biodeposits or released as dissolved nutrients at the farm, potentially causing environmental problems. Furthermore, the water clearing effect is largely restricted to the immediate farming area where the farm itself causes shading, increases sedimentation and where levels of dissolved nutrients available for new algae growth are high. Thus, while nutrient uptake can be an additional service from mussel farms producing food mussels, specialized mitigation farms may not be a suitable measure against eutrophication in the Baltic Sea.

 

Legacy nutrients in the Baltic Sea drainage basin – how long will past inputs affect nutrient loads?

Bärbel Müller-Karulis, Stockholm University, barbel.muller-karulis@su.se

Michelle McCrackin, Stockholm University; Dennis Swaney, Cornell University; Robert Howarth, Cornell University; Christoph Humborg, Stockholm University

After the 1980s, nitrogen and phosphorus inputs to the Baltic Sea catchment dropped rapidly, but river loads declined only slowly. A simple two-box model reproduces past century nutrient loads, with a 30-year residence for mobile phosphorus. Future phosphorus loads could decrease by 17% without further action, but not enough to meet management targets.

After the 1980s, fertilizer application and thus land-based nitrogen and phosphorus inputs to the Baltic Sea catchment dropped rapidly, but river loads declined only slowly. To understand the relationship between nutrient inputs on land and waterbound nutrient loads we estimated net anthropogenic nitrogen and phosphorus inputs (NANI and NAPI) to the drainage basin for the past century. We found that substantial amounts of P have accumulated in the drainage basin from past fertilization and sewage discharge practices. To address nutrient storage and release, we developed a simple two-box model that describes N and P movement through a mobile storage pool and its loss to recalcitrant forms (P) and the atmosphere (N) for the entire drainage basin. The model reproduces waterborne nutrient loads to the sea. It suggests that the mobile phosphorus pool has a residence time of about 30 years and has switched from accumulation to depletion after the 1980s. Without further reductions in NAPI, future waterborne loads could decrease by 17%, but not enough to meet management targets.

 

Thursday, 22 August
11:15 – 12:45
Aula Magna left hall

 

Trace metal sequestration mechanisms in a human-impacted boreal estuary in the northern Baltic Sea

Sami Jokinen, University of Helsinki, sami.jokinen@helsinki.fi

Tom Jilbert, University of Helsinki; Rosa Tiihonen, University of Helsinki; Karoliina Koho, University of Helsinki

We studied trace metal sequestration mechanisms in a human-impacted estuary in the Baltic Sea using a solid-phase sequential extraction scheme in combination with pore water chemical analyses. Our results suggest that the export of DOM from boreal catchments may modulate the land-to-sea transport of trace metals and their sequestration in coastal sediments more effectively than previously thought.

Excessive anthropogenic trace metal loading is a global environmental problem affecting coastal ecosystems. The extent of this pollution is often quantified by comparing total trace metal contents in surface sediments to pre-industrial levels in deeper sediment layers. However, such an approach yields little information about the mobility of trace metals, nor about the mechanisms of their transport and sequestration in coastal sediments. Here we probe recent trace metal sequestration mechanisms in a human-impacted boreal estuary in the northern Baltic Sea using a solid-phase sequential extraction scheme combined with pore water chemical analyses. We observe strong coupling between inputs of terrestrial organic matter (OM) and accumulation of Cd, Pb, Zn, and Sn in sediments. We suggest that in the 1970s, enhanced atmospheric loading of trace metals to the terrestrial environment, coupled to intensified land use, augmented the transport of metal-DOM complexes to the estuary. These findings suggest that the export of DOM from boreal catchments may modulate the land-to-sea transport of trace metals and their sequestration in coastal sediments more effectively than previously realized.

 

Long-term changes in the marine macrophyte community of an isolated, Baltic coast

Floriaan Eveleens Maarse, Åbo Akademi, floriaan.eveleensmaarse@abo.fi

Martin Snickars, Åbo Akademi; Sonja Salovius-Lauren, Åbo Akademi

The submerged macrophyte community of Lågskär, the Åland Islands, was examined for species composition, abundance and depth distribution and compared with previous studies from 1956 and 1992. In 2018, it was found that the decline of species richness between 1956 and 1992 has continued. The depth range of Fucus vesiculosus had decreased between 1992 and 2018.

Baltic marine macrophytes offer many ecosystem services and have undergone changes in abundance and species composition over the latter half of the 20th century. The submerged macrophyte community of Lågskär, the Åland Islands, was examined for species composition, abundance and depth distribution and compared with previous studies from 1956 and 1992. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of long-term, Baltic Sea wide anthropogenic factors e.g. eutrophication. The vegetation was observed by SCUBA diving along a transect, from 15 m depth to the shore. In 2018, it was found that the decline of species richness between 1956 and 1992 has continued. The depth range of Fucus vesiculosus had decreased between 1992 and 2018 and the upper limit of the F. vesiculosus belt has reduced by 0.5 m. Other changes were a large increase in filamentous algae, especially Ectocarpus siliculosus, and the appearance of Tolypella nifidica. The most likely driver behind the changes in the macrophyte community is eutrophication brought on by upwelling events.

 

Phosphorus dynamics and P retention potential of lakes and lake sediments in the catchment of the lowland River Warnow (Germany, Mecklenburg-West Pomerania)

Franziska Bitschofsky, Biota - Institute for Ecological Research and Planning GmbH, franziska.bitschofsky@institut-biota.de

Babara Deutsch, Federal Environmental Agency; Dietmar Mehl, Biota - Institute for Ecological Research and Planning GmbH

The river-lake system Warnow is one of the largest German river catchments draining into the Baltic Sea. Estimating the Phosphorus retention potential in 3 lakes showed that only one lake is able to retain P. This lead to the assumption that most lakes in the catchment exceed their P retention capacity and act as P source to the river and finally to the Baltic Sea.

Rougly 95 % of Phosphorus inputs to the Baltic Sea originate from riverine sources. The Warnow basin is one of the largest German river catchments draining into the Baltic Sea and especially in the upper course it is strongly influenced by riverine lakes. Depending on depth, ecological, and trophic status, lakes can act as P sink or source. We analysed the distribution of various P species in the water column as well as in the sediment of three lakes in the Warnow catchment four times per year. Bottom water temperature and oxygen concentration were identified as main physical parameters controlling the P dynamics in lake sediments. We evaluated the P retention potential by balancing the calculated P fluxes from sediment to the water column with estimated P sedimentation rates. Only one out of three Lakes was able to retain P. We assume that most Lakes in the River-Lake-System Warnow might act as P source. This emphasize the meaning of Lake Management as an important tool to control riverine P input to the Baltic Sea.

 

The Projection Service for Waterways and Shipping (ProWaS) - a tool for planning, design and assessment of mitigation measures

Frank Janssen, BSH, frank.janssen@bsh.de

Janna Abalichin, BSH; Birte-Marie Ehlers, BSH

The presented project ProWaS shall implement a climate projection service as a tool for the assessment of mitigation measures. The impact of global sea level rise on the Baltic Sea will be the primary target of the study. Results in changing inflow dynamics which impact salinity and ventilation of the Baltic Sea will be shown along with the forcing sea level changes.

The ‘German Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change’ (DAS) provides the political framework to climate change adaptation in Germany. One of the actions specified in the associated ‘Adaption Action Plan’ is to establish an operational forecasting and projection service for climate, extreme weather and coastal and inland waterbodies.

We will present first results from the pilot project ‘Projection Service for Waterways and Shipping’ (ProWaS) for the Baltic Sea with focus on the German coastal region. This projection service is meant as a tool for planning, design and assessment of mitigation measures and policy instruments.

As the ongoing mean sea level rise is a strong driver for changes in the Baltic Sea environment its impact will be the primary target in the presented study. In order to properly describe the impact of global sea level change on the Baltic Sea we set up a model system which includes the North Sea and the entire North-West-Shelf and gives us the opportunity not only to look at Baltic sea level changes but also to analyse changing inflow dynamics which impact salinity and ventilation of the Baltic Sea.

 

Contribution of sewage, sediments and fresh- and seawater inflow to surface water phosphorus concentrations and cycling in the inner Stockholm archipelago, a stratified Baltic Sea estuary

Jakob Walve, Stockholm University, jakob.walve@su.se

Maria Sandberg, Stockholm University; Christer Lännergren, Stockholm Vatten; Ragnar Elmgren, Stockholm University; Ulf Larsson, Stockholm University

We used mass-balance to calculate long-term (1968-2015) and seasonal water exchange and contribution of different phosphorus (P) sources to the P concentrations in the Stockholm inner archipelago (IA), Baltic Sea. Sewage is now a minor source and the spring bloom is mainly fueled by P from freshwater and seawater which control P recycling from sediments.

The response of temperate coastal waters to changed nutrient loads is influenced by water exchange as well as nutrient uptake and recycling. We used a mass-balance box-model to calculate long-term (1968-2015) and seasonal water exchange and phosphorus (P) turnover in the stratified Stockholm inner archipelago (IA), Baltic Sea. A drastic reduction of sewage P loads in the early 1970’s reduced sewage from a major to a minor P source. Further P load reduction in the 1990’s cut the direct sewage contribution to the annual mean surface water P concentration from 10 (25%) to <4 μg/l (12%). The
still significant sediment P release is now mostly recycled P from the settled spring bloom, in turn mainly of seawater and freshwater origin. Thus, these P inputs are now the major drivers of the P
cycle in the IA. Variations in freshwater flushing give higher P concentrations in dry years, when dilution of P inputs from sediments and sewage is low. Recycling of P from sediments increase surface
water P concentrations, indicating a need for revision of winter reference values for P, as presently defined under the EU Water Framework Directive.

 

How changes in wind and water temperature drives sea spray aerosol emissions, based on laboratory tank experiments and Baltic Sea Eddy Covariance fluxes

E. Douglas Nilsson, Stockholm University, douglas.nilsson@aces.su.se

E. Monica Mårtensson, Uppsala University; Mathew Salter, Stockholm University; Anna Rutgersson, Uppsala University

We have measured sea spray aerosol production both in situ over the Baltic with eddy covariance fluxes and in laboratory tanks. Both show a strong temperature trend, where sea spray formation decrease with increasing sea surface temperature. In a warming world this implies a potentially dangerous positive feed back loop that may amplify warming in marine regions.

Key physical factors for the magnitude of sea-spray (SS) emissions are wind-speed and sea-surface-temperature (SST).

On the island Östergarnsholm in the Baltic-Sea, Stockholm University installed an aerosol eddy-covariance-flux system in 2012. Recently we used a SS-simulation tank to study how SS-production depends on SST. For this study similar experiments were made at 6‰ salinity to resample the conditions around Östergarnsholm.

In wind sectors resambling open-sea aerosol-fluxes were dominantly upward due to SS-emissions, with an exponential increase in SS-emissions with increasing wind-speed as previously observed for the Barents-sea, Arctic-ocean, and north-east Atlantic.

With our much larger data-set, covering a wide range of SST over several years we can see that the SS-emissions shifts downward with increasing SST. SS-emissions peak at 4-8C, falling rapidly in magnitude with increasing SST. This compares well with our laboratory SS-tank data at a comparable salinity.

In a world where large parts of the oceans are now in transition towards higher sea surface temperature, this offers a potentially dangerous positive climate change feedback that may amplify climate change.

 

 

 

Posters, session 1

Tuesday, 20 August
17:00 – 19:00
Aula Magna floor 5

Marine litter pollution at the Lithuanian open sea and coastal areas

Arunas Balciunas, Klaipeda University, arunasbalciunass@gmail.com (presenter)

Results presented in this study is a part of a successfully defended dissertation at Klaipeda University and the methods applied are being implemented in a BONUS MICROPOLL project.

The presence of artificial polymer materials became completely ordinary in all aspects of modern life. With a lack of an environmental education and poor waste management systems, high quantities of plastics are entering marine environment. A decade have passed since adopting Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and there is still a lack of information on the composition, amount and spatial distribution of marine litter at the Baltic Sea. This study provides the findings of the first comprehensive analysis of the marine litter pollution in Lithuania. The amount and distribution of different type of marine litter on the bottom of the sea and at the coast of Lithuania was investigated and the main pollution sources identified. Moreover, the coast exposure to marine litter pollution assessment methodology was developed and applied in order to determine the areas of the Lithuanian coast where marine litter is most likely to accumulate.

 

Occurrence of microplastics in commercial fish of the Baltic Sea

Marcin Białowąs, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, mbialowas@mir.gdynia.pl (presenter)

Karolina Jonko-Sobuś, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute; Lucyna Polak-Juszczak, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute; Barbara Urban-Malinga, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute

Microplastics occurrence was studied in digestive tracks and gills of herring and cod from the southern Baltic Sea. On average, 21 % of cod and 19 % of herring had microplastics in their digestive tracks, while 13 and 14 % of cod and herring, respectively, had micropalstics in their gills. Chemical pollutants (PBDE, HBCD, arsenic, mercury) were analysed in fish tissue.

The presence of microplastics in marine environment is a major threat to marine organisms. Microplastics occurrence was studied in digestive tracks and gills of herring (Clupea harengus) and cod (Gadus morhua) from the southern Baltic Sea. In total, 200 fish were analysed. On average, 21 % of cod and 19 % of herring had microplastics in their digestive tracks, while 13 and 14 % of cod and herring, respectively, had micropalstics in their gills. Blue fragments were the dominant type in both gills and digestive tracks of both species studied. The size of microplastics varied between 64 µm and 2884 µm. Chemical analyses of herring muscles from individuals containing pieces of plastic in digestive tracks were performed in order to study the levels of persistent organic pollutants such as PBDE and HBCD usually present in the plastic itself. It was assumed that the individuals which indigested pieces of plastic may present the higher levels of organic pollutants in their tissues. Also levels of arsenic and mercury which are suggested to be adsorbed on the microplastic surface were analysed. Fat content in fish muscles was analysed in order to evaluate the condition of each individual.

 

Ancient genomics of Baltic grey seals

Maiken Hemme Bro-Jørgensen, Stockholm University, maiken@palaeome.org (presenter)

Hans Ahlgren, Stockholm University; Aikaterini Glykou, Stockholm University; Ulrich Schmölcke, Stiftung Schleswig-Holsteinische Landesmuseen; Anders Angerbjörn, Stockholm University; Morten Tange Olsen, University of Copenhagen; Kerstin Lidén, Stockholm University

This project investigates ancient genomes of Baltic grey seals to study genetic changes, as well as life history and demographic processes associated with environmental changes and prehistoric hunting of grey seals. The preliminary results on ancient mitogenomes suggest that there has been a huge effect.

This project investigates ancient genomes of Baltic grey seals from a diachronic perspective in order to study genetic changes, as well as life history and demographic processes associated with environmental changes and hunting of grey seals in the past.

The grey seal was heavily hunted by hunter-gatherer societies in the Baltic region since its first arrival more than 9000 years ago. Radical environmental changes have affected the Baltic Sea since then.

This study takes offset in an extensive and well preserved zooarchaeological collection of grey seal bones from Stora Förvar cave near Gotland. The aDNA data generated so far represents grey seals from between 9000 and 8000 years ago. Samples were shotgun sequenced and the mitochondrial control region extracted for phylogenetic analysis. Comparing this data set to modern and historical mitochondrial control region reference data clearly shows that genetic changes have occurred.

Furthermore, by combining genetic sexing of the ancient data set with morphological age estimation we hope to contribute with information on what demographic effects seal hunting may have had on the Baltic grey seal population.

 

The operational model system of the BSH for German coastal waters – status, products and outlook

Thorger Brüning, BSH, thorger.bruening@bsh.de

Ina Lorkowski, BSH; Silvia Maßmann, BSH; Inga Golbeck, BSH; Simon Jandt, BSH; Frank Janssen, BSH; Xin Li, BSH; Thomas Schöngaßner, BSH; Fabian Schwichtenberg, BSH (presenter)

In recent years, the BSH has continuously expanded its operational model system due to numerous new requirements in connection with marine strategy framework directive or from the offshore industry and has integrated further model components such as an ecosystem component. This poster presents the complete, comprehensive system from the forcing data to the products.

The BSH has been operating an operational model system for German coastal waters for more than 30 years. The main applications have always been the support of BSH’s water level prediction service, the support of search and rescue applications, as well as the prediction of oil drift paths and pollutant distributions.

In recent years, however, the need for information on the current state of coastal waters in Germany has increased considerably. The offshore industry and also various authorities in connection with marine strategy framework directive require a wide range of different, additional up-to-date data and forecast products.

In order to provide qualified information on all these different topics, BSH's operational model system has been continuously expanded and currently consists of the components circulation model, surge model, Lagrangian dispersion model, Eulerian dispersion model and an ecosystem model.

This poster describes the current state of the operational model and validation system from forcing data to final products, shows the interfaces between the individual model components and gives an outlook on the potential for further improvements and developments.

 

Cardiovascular medication occurrence in surface waters and effluents in Lielupe River catchment area, Latvia

Laura Dzintare, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University, laura.dzintare@lhei.lv (presenter)

Ieva Putna, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University; Vita Plivca, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University; Ieva Barda, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University; Ineta Liepina, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University

Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) have been widely found in the environment, yet the effect of this pollution on aquatic microorganisms has not been studied enough. This study detects cardiovascular APIs concentration in surface waters and waste waters in Lielupe River catchment area in order to assess APIs Environmental Risk Quotient (RQ)

Presence of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the ecosystem is a concerning environmental risk worldwide. One of the most frequently detected API in aquatic environment is cardiovascular medication.

Aim of the study is to estimate cardiovascular API potential ecotoxicological impact on the environment of Lielupe River catchment area, Latvia. Concentrations of cardiovascular API were detected in surface water and waste water (WW) effluent samples. Results were compared to Predicted Environmental Concentration (PEC) and Predicted No Effect Concentration (PNEC) to determine if the environment impact is acceptable. Environmental Risk Quotient (RQ) was calculated as the ratio of Measured Environmental Concentration (MEC) and PNEC.

Overall the environment impact of analysed substances is acceptable as PEC/PNEC (MEC/PNEC).

 

Estimation of the impact from regulated river discharge on the costal environment

Moa Edman, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Research Department, oceanography, moa.edman@smhi.se (presenter)

Niclas Hjerdt, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Core Services; Josefina Algotsson, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Core Services; Karin Wesslander, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Core Services; Göran Lindström, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Research Department, hydrology; Elin Almroth-Rosell, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Research Department, oceanography; Pia Andersson, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, Core Services

The aim is to estimate the impact from regulated river discharge on the Swedish coastal environment. The Swedish Coastal zone Model (SCM) is used to simulate the environmental state in the of all Swedish water bodies defined by the water framework directive and thus both changes to the hydromorphological and environmental statuses can be evaluated.

Sweden has a high number of large (> 10 MW) hydropower plants which together with smaller facilities and other human-made obstructions change the seasonality of river discharge to coastal waters. The effect from these regulations of river discharge on the coastal environment has not yet been studied. Thus we aim to estimate the impact from regulated river discharge on the Swedish coastal environment. The Swedish Coastal zone Model (SCM) is used to simulate and compare the environmental state in Swedish coastal zone with and without the existing regulations of river discharges. The model simulates the physical and biogeochemical state of all Swedish water bodies defined by the water framework directive (WFD) and thus both changes to the hydromorphological and environmental statuses can be evaluated. As of now, only the impact on the hydromorphological state of coastal waters is evaluated and managed. However, since the overreaching aim of the WFD is to protect biological values, also the impact on biogeochemical indices, i.e. oxygen deficiency and eutrophication, will be investigated.

 

FIGAERO-CIMS analysis of Baltic Sea Spray Aerosol

Georgia May Gamble, Stockholm University, ggamble1@outlook.com (presenter)

Claudia Mohr, Stockholm University; Paul Zieger, Stockholm University

A brief summary of the chemicals and possible pollutants present in the marine aerosol produced from the ambient surface water of the Baltic Sea. Through the study of data collected from analysing filters samples using FIGAREO-CIMS.

This study involves the analysis of the chemical composition of nascent sea spray particles collected in a controlled, ship-based experiment. The experiment in question was conducted on a cruise of the German research vessel Elizabeth Marie Borgese (EMB) during Summer 2018. On this cruise sea spray aerosol (SSA) was generated artificially in a tank in particle free dry air, from seawater collected from the Baltic sea. The SSA was collected onto PTFE filter samples, and they were then studied on shore using a TOF-CIMS instrument which utilized a FIGAREO inlet. The initial results of the data produced a relatively clean spectrum and a peculiar pattern of peaks at very high masses (600-1250 amu) each with a separation of 50 amu, which suggested the presence of CF2 units and thus the presence of perfluorinated compounds. However, the empirical formulae of these 12 compounds are unknown at the time of writing. When compared to other data sets collected on the cruise the compounds in this peak pattern correlated to the relative ambient humidity"

 

The South-Western Baltic coast storm surge event Axel in a climate perspective

Nikolaus Groll, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, nikolaus.groll@hzg.de (presenter)

Lidia Gaslikova, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Centre for Materials and Coastal Research; Ralf Weisse, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Centre for Materials and Coastal Research

A storm surge along German and Danish coast, associated with the extratropical storm Axel, taken place in January 2017 caused coastal erosion, severe inundation and damaged coastal infrastructure. Using a hydrodynamical hindcast simulation we compared this event with extreme events over the past 60 years and analysed the contribution of various components that can trigger surges in the Baltic Sea.

A storm surge along the German and Danish coast, associated with the extratropical storm Axel, taken place in January 2017 caused coastal erosion, severe inundation and damaged coastal infrastructure. Such an event statistically occur every 10 to 20 years, to put this recent event in perspective, the water level is put into relation to extreme events over the last 60 years using a hydrodynamic hindcast simulation for the Baltic Sea region. The hydrodynamic model TRIM-NP was forced by wind and sea level pressure fields derived from a hindcast simulation with the regional atmosphere model COMSO-CLM. The simulation shows reasonable results when compared with water level observation along the German coastline. The speciality of the water level in the Baltic Sea is that it can be decomposed not only into the contribution of direct wind stress and sea level pressure but also to the level of filling and wind stimulated seiches. A comparison of the recent event with the simulated climatology showed, that seiches contribute almost nothing, atmospheric components contribute on an average level, but the level of filling dominated the water level variations.

 

Effects of recreational boating on aquatic vegetation

Joakim Hansen, Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre, joakim.hansen@su.se (presenter)

Josefin Sagerman, Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre; Sofia Wikström, Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre

Is there a conflict between recreational boating and conservation of aquatic biodiversity? Our systematic review of published scientific studies shows that boating can result in a significant loss of habitat-forming aquatic vegetation. However, the impact can likely be reduced by restricting boating activities in the most sensitive areas and by using the best available design of docks and buoys.

Recreational boating is a popular leisure activity in coastal areas of the Baltic Sea. It allows people to experience and connect with nature, and is sustaining local economies. At the same time boating may conflict with conservation of aquatic habitats. We performed a systematic review to study the effects of recreational boat traffic and mooring facilities (docks and buoys) on habitat-forming vegetation in coastal and freshwater systems. Meta-analyses of the collated data showed that vegetation abundance was on average 60% lower in areas with boat traffic, and 80% lower below docks, compared to control areas. Most mooring buoy systems created scour areas without vegetation. However, the review also showed that the effect of boating was highly variable between ecosystems and sites. In the presentation, we will highlight case studies from the Baltic Sea and discuss potential effects on ecosystem function. We will further discuss how impacts from leisure boats can be accounted for in coastal zone planning and management of marine protected areas.

 

Fate of hydrophobic organic contaminants in sediment cores from a deep sea trench

Gisela Horlitz, Stockholm University / Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), gisela.horlitz@aces.su.se (presenter)

Igor Eulaers, Aarhus University / Department of Bioscience - Marine Mammal Research; Stefano Bonaglia, Stockholm University / Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences (DEEP); Ronnie N. Glud, University of Southern Denmark / Department of Biology; Anna Sobek, Stockholm University / Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES)

In marine systems, export with settling organic matter is a significant removal process for hydrophobic organic chemicals (HOCs). Consequently, ocean sediments serve as significant reservoirs. In this study, sediment core samples from 5 different locations at the Atacama trench were analyzed for a range of legacy HOCs. Preliminary results demonstrate concentrations of PCBs at the pg g^-1 dw level.

Overall levels of legacy pollutants decreased during the last decades, but due to their persistence they are still found in aquatic systems. Because of their potential to bind to organic matter, hydrophobic organic chemicals (HOCs) are closely related to the global carbon cycle. In marine systems, export with settling organic matter is a significant removal process for HOCs. Consequently, ocean sediments serve as significant reservoirs for HOCs. In this study, sediment core samples from the Atacama trench, west of Chile were analyzed for a range of legacy HOCs, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). Sediment cores were taken at 5 different locations, including slope, abyssal plain and trench. Water depths ranged between 2500 m to 8000 m. Organic content in the sediment ranged between 1.5 % to 2.1% at abyssal locations and 0.3 % and 0.6 % the trench. Preliminary results demonstrate concentrations of PCBs at the pg g^-1 dw level, and indicate highest concentrations at the highest depth in the trench. Further work will investigate how the biogeochemical setting links to observed concentrations.

 

The BalticSeaFellows Initiative: Cross disciplinary research for integrated science and management of the Baltic Sea Basin

Fernando Jaramillo, Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden, fernando.jaramillo@natgeo.su.se (presenter)

Elias Broman, Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Agnes Karlsson, Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Inga Koszalka, Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Camilla Lienart, Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Francisco J.A Nascimento, Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Christian Stranne, Baltic Sea Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden

The BalticSeaFellows Initiative promotes cutting-edge scientific research to guide management in the Baltic Sea Basin. The combination of hydrogeodesy, hydro acoustics and Lagrangian oceanic modelling with the holistic understanding of benthic invertebrates and fish population dynamics can help understand the rapidly changing conditions of the Baltic and its resilience to related changes.

According to key policy frameworks, major water quality improvements are to be achieved in the Baltic Sea by 2021; however, available data suggest negligible improvements to date and even a pronounced deterioration of water quality. The BalticSeaFellows Initiative is a recent initiative that promotes cutting-edge scientific research to guide management in achieving these necessary improvements. We, its members, come from different scientific fields of research at Stockholm University, spanning across biochemistry, oceanography, aquatic ecology and hydrology. By means of a cross-disciplinary approach, we define the most important research questions that science needs to address in these fields and investigate how their answers may benefit the sustainable management of the Baltic Sea Basin. The combination of new techniques such as hydrogeodesy, hydro acoustics and Lagrangian oceanic modelling the holistic understanding of benthic invertebrates- and fish- population dynamics can become a powerful tool to understand the rapidly changing conditions of the Baltic Sea and its resilience to ongoing rapid changes.

 

Residual Monomer Content Affects the Interpretation of Plastic Degradation

Franziska Klaeger, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, franziska.klaeger@io-warnemuende.de (presenter)

Alexander S. Tagg, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde; Stefan Otto, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde; Matthias Bienmüller, LanXess; Ingo Sartorius, PlasticsEurope; Matthias Labrenz, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde

To understand plastic degradation rates in the Baltic Sea, nylon was incubated in Baltic Sea microcosms and dissolved organic carbon development was measured. Residual monomeric content (rM) dramatically influenced DIC development, indicating when rM are not considered, plastic degradation rates may be overestimated, and plastic residence times in the Baltic Sea may be longer than expected.

Plastic pollution is one of the most prominent anthropogenic pressures. Plastics have the potential to disturb the ecosystem in many ways, some known and some as yet unknown. However, the most notable issue plastics pose to marine environments is their pervasiveness and residence time. While it is expected that plastics eventually degrade, little is known about the actual degradation rates or mechanisms for degradation in the general marine environment, or more specifically in the Baltic Sea. This study investigated biodegradation rates of nylon (PA6) exposed to Baltic Sea microbial communities within an artificial brackish water microcosm by tracking the development of dissolved organic carbon (DIC). It was demonstrated that residual monomeric and oligomeric content (rM) of PA6 significantly influences the development of DIC. As such, in degradation studies where rM are not considered and correctly controlled for, interpreted rates for the degradation of synthetic polymers could be overestimated. Given this finding, the estimated residence time (and associated effects these plastics may have on ecological processes while present in the environment) require further research.

 

Supercomputer simulations to assess the impact of waves on the coastal infrastructure

Andrey Kozelkov, Nizhny Novgorod Technical University n.a. R.A. Alexeev, askozelkov@mail.ru (presenter)

Rashit Shagaliev, FSUE “RFNC-VNIIEF”; Andrey Kurkin, Nizhny Novgorod Technical University n.a. R.A. Alexeev; Vadim Kurulin, FSUE “RFNC-VNIIEF”; Elena Tyatyushkina, Nizhny Novgorod Technical University n.a. R.A. Alexeev

Development of a technology to assess the wave impact on the coastal infrastructure is a highly relevant problem. Now the most promising approach to free-surface dynamics simulations involves three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations. The paper deals with the development of a simulation technology within the Navier-Stokes framework to model the wave impact on the coastal infrastructure.

To simulate the wave impact on the coastal infrastructure, the Navier-Stokes equations are used in combination with the Volume of Fluid method.

The technology presented in the paper is verified on a number of problems supported by experimental evidence. The results show that the proposed numerical simulation technology can be used to assess the wave impact on the coastal infrastructure.

We present simulation results for flows over a single obstacle and multiple obstacles. We show that our technology makes it possible to produce a detailed pattern of wave perturbations.

This technology has been implemented in the Russian software package LOGOS intended for conjugate three-dimensional simulations of convective heat and mass transfer, aerodynamics and hydrodynamics on parallel computers. LOGOS is successfully used for various hydrodynamic simulations, including modeling of tsunamis.

This work has been funded by grants of the President of the Russian Federation for state support of research projects by young doctors of science (MD-4874.2018.9) and state support of leading schools of thought of the Russian Federation (NSh-2685.2018.5).

 

Evaluation of most common pharmaceutically active compound environmental faith in Gulf of Riga, Latvia

Ineta Liepiņa, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University, ineta.liepina@lhei.lv (presenter)

Laura Dzintare, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University; Ieva Putna-Nīmane, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University

This work discusses results of recently done extensive testing research of pharmaceutically active ingredient concentration in surface water and sediments of Gulf of Riga. Aim is to evaluate the environmental faith of compounds with the highest detected concentration and based on literature analysis also potentially toxic or bioaccumulative substances among them.

Pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) are a heterogeneous group of substances with variety of physicochemical properties and biological activity. This diversity combined with production rate and consumption intensity determines PhAC distribution and environmental fate in aquatic systems.

Analysis of 54 common PhACs done recently in surface water of Gulf of Riga detected 29 compounds and showed the highest concentrations of mesalazine, gemfibrozil and carbamazepine. This research also investigated corresponding sampling locations sediments. Out of 65 PhACs, 34 were detected and the highest concentrations were found for xylometazoline, hydrochlorothirazide and norfloxacin.

This work focuses on assessing given results of detected PhACs with literature on their environmental persistence. The best available knowledge on risk factors (toxic or bioaccumulative properties) is also taken in consideration for compounds with the highest concentration to evaluate the state of pharmaceutical pollution in Gulf of Riga.

 

Vertical and Spatial profiles of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the Tropical Atlantic Ocean

Daniele Miranda, Stockholm University, Daniele.Miranda@aces.su.se (presenter)

Jonathan Benskin, Stockholm University; Juliana Leonel, UFSC; Vanessa Hatje, UFBA

Per- and polfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were investigated in seawater at depths of of 4-5847m in the tropical Atlantic Ocean (15ºN to 23ºS). These data were used to better characterize vertical and lateral transport of PFASs along with elucidation of PFAS sources to this region.

Spatial and depth profiles of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were determined in the tropical Atlantic Ocean. The goals of the study were to a) investigate vertical and lateral transport of PFASs, and b) identify the source of PFAS contamination to the water in this region. Sampling took place in 2017 aboard the research vessel R/V Vital de Oliveira at 17 locations from 15ºN to 23ºS at depths of 4-5847m. In addition to the collection of water samples (51 total; 0.5L each), conductivity, temperature, and depth were also measured using a CTD accoupled to a GO-FLO sampler. All samples were stored frozen and then extracted using an established solid phase extraction procedure. Thereafter, sample extracts were analyzed by ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) for >40 PFASs. Unsurprisingly perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) were among the major PFASs detected. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of PFAS depth profiles in the western tropical Atlantic Ocean.

 

Spatial and seasonal variation of phosphorus concentrations and composition along the river Warnow in Germany’s northeastern catchment area of the Baltic Sea

Monika Nausch, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research, monika.nausch@io-warnemuende.de (presenter)

Franziska Bitschofky, Biota, Institute for Ecological Research and Planning, Bützow, Germany

The Warnow catchment is one of the largest area in Germany discharging to the Baltic Sea which has an insufficient ecological status. Phosphorus composition along the Warnow river and its spatial and temporal variation is demonstrated to gain deeper insights into the P quality and its eutrophication potential.

Rivers are the connection between phosphorus (P) sources on land and the sea and riverine processes are an important aspect of P transport. Pcomposition is highly dynamic and occurs as dissolved and particulate, organic and inorganic P. To gain deeper insights into the P quality of rivers discharging to the Baltic Sea, temporal and spatial changes of P composition were investigated in the Warnow basin, one of the largest German catchments of the Baltic Sea. Surface water samples were taken monthly between August 2016 and August 2018 along the Warnow flow path and its tributaries. They were analysed for four P fractions: dissolved reactive (DRP), dissolved nonreactive (DNP), particulate reactive (PRP) and particulate nonreactive (PNP) phosphorus. In the upper Warnow course, riverine lakes were the sources of PNP and DRP during the summer and autumn. In the middle course, mainly PRP and DRP were introduced into the river. In the rainy summer 2017 higher amounts of DRP occurred in the river. Total phosphorus loads increased along the flow path due to increasing discharge volume. The annual TP load of 40 t to the estuary was composed by DRP (32%), PNP (31%), PRP (19%) and DNP (18%).

 

Spatial and temporal variation of phosphorus emission from a tile drain outlet in the Warnow catchment (northeastern Germany)

Monika Nausch, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research, monika.nausch@io-warnemuende.de (presenter)

Sandra Jahn, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Petra Kahle, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Rostock; Günther Nausch, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Thomas Leipe, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research; Bernd Lennartz, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

About 54% of arable land in northeastern Germany is equipped with classical tile drain systems and ditches. Therefore, phosphorus losses from the drains can contribute to eutrophication of inland and coastal waters. In this study P emission of a tile drain outlet and its composition was investigated and how P fractions vary along the flow path.

Phosphorus (P) is a major contributor to eutrophication of the Baltic Sea coming predominantly from diffuses sources of agricultural origin. The majority of arable land in the German catchment is artificially drained and tile drain systems may constitute a significant source of P. In this study P emission of a tile drain outlet and its composition was investigated and how P fractions vary along the flow path. The investigations were conducted in a sub-basin of the Warnow river discharging to the Baltic Sea. Investigations were done during three discharge seasons (1thNovember - 30thApril) in 2013/2014, 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 characterized by relative dry and mild winters. Total phosphorus (TP) concentrations in drain water ranged from 0.009 - 0.27 mg l^-1. They increased along the flow path to 0.4 - 4.4 mg l^-1 in the brook. So under the occurred land use, the contribution of drain water to the P concentrations in the brook and the river Warnow seems to be low. Drain water was dominated by dissolved P (>70%) with an increase of particulate P along the flow path. Clay minerals and Fe(hydro)oxides were the main carriers of particle bound P.

 

Effect of individual APIs surface water and waste water concentrations on Desmodesmus subspicatus growth inhibition

Vita Plivča, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils, vita.plivca@lhei.lv (presenter)

Ieva Putna - Nīmane, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils; Ineta Liepiņa, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils; Laura Dzintare, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils; Ieva Bārda, Latvian Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils

Pharmaceuticals are widely used in human and veterinarian medicine. Aim of this study is to detect effect of individual APIs surface water and waste water concentrations on Desmodesmus subspicatus growth inhibition. Nevertheless, results showed no toxic effect of these concentrations, the increasing presence of API in the environment must be taken in consideration and further studies are needed.

Pharmaceuticals are chemical compounds that are widely used in human and veterinarian medicine. Due to increasing production and use of pharmaceuticals, also increases presence of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in aquatic ecosystems, creating potential threat to environment.

Aim of this study is to detect effect of individual APIs surface water and waste water concentrations on Desmodesmus subspicatus growth inhibition.

Waste water effluent and surface water samples were collected in Lielupe River catchment area and API concentration were detected. After data analysis seven APIs with increased concentrations from three therapeutic groups – antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents and antiepileptics, were selected for individual API effect determination on Desmodesmus subspicatus growth inhibition.

Results showed that surface water and waste water concentration improve Desmodesmus subspicatus by in different extent or caused no effect.

Nevertheless, the increasing presence of API in the environment must be taken in consideration and further studies are needed to obtain better understanding and knowledge of environmental impact of APIs.

 

Human medicine consumption and environmental levels of active pharmaceutical ingredients in Latvia.

Ieva Putna-Nimane, Latvian Institute of Aqutic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University, ieva.putna@lhei.lv (presenter)

Ieva Barda, Latvian Institute of Aqutic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University; Ineta Liepina, Latvian Institute of Aqutic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University; Laura Dzintare, Latvian Institute of Aqutic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University; Vita Plivca, Latvian Institute of Aqutic Ecology, Agency of Daugavpils University

Human medicine have beneficial effects on human and animal health, but their active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) undesired occurrence and effects in the environment is an increasing global concern. Aim of this study is to determine those APIs used in Latvia that are of increased levels in the environment as well as waste water treatment plant API removal efficiency.

Data shows that medicine production and consumption is increasing due to e.g. population growth and aging. Human medicine have beneficial effects on human and animal health, but their active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) undesired occurrence and effects in the environment is an increasing global concern.

Aim of this study is to determine those APIs used in Latvia that are of increased levels in the environment as well as waste water treatment plant API removal efficiency. In the frame work of Interreg BSR project CWPharma human medicine consumption data for almost 80 APIs were collected from year 2015 to 2017 and samples in Lielupe River catchment area were taken in order to detect concentrations of APIs in surface waters, inlet and outlet of waste waters and activated sludge.

Overall results show that highest concentrations of APIs consumed in Latvia and also found in the water environment belongs to cardiovascular medication. Even though for of APIs belonging to cardiovascular medication group concentration were found to be the highest ecotoxicological effects should be taken into account into environmental effect assessment.

 

Pharmaceuticals in tropical aquatic ecosystems

Gabrielle Quadra, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, gaby_quadra@hotmail.com (presenter)

Zhe Li, Stockholm University; Fábio Roland, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora; Nathan Barros, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora; Anna Sobek, Stockholm University

Pharmaceuticals have been frequently detected in the aquatic environment. In Brazil, the occurrence and fate of pharmaceuticals in the environment are poorly studied. Therefore, pharmaceuticals will be quantified in different aquatic systems in Brazil. This study will provide information that may support decision makers to regulate the discharge of these compounds to the environment.

Aquatic ecosystems are under huge pressure from human activities, and synthetic chemicals are among the most important agents of global change. Pharmaceuticals, for example, have been frequently detected in the aquatic environment worldwide. Pharmaceuticals are often not completely removed in sewage treatment plants; therefore ending up in freshwater systems and eventually reaching the oceans. The concern about the presence of pharmaceuticals in aquatic ecosystems has been increasing worldwide especially because they can be harmful to ecosystems even at low concentration levels. Therefore, knowledge about the occurrence of these compounds in aquatic environments is needed. In Brazil, the occurrence and fate of pharmaceuticals in the environment are still poorly studied. This study was designed to analyze some of the most consumed pharmaceuticals in water and sediment samples from different Brazilian aquatic systems. Samples will be analyzed with UHPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS. In Brazil, pharmaceuticals are not yet part of water quality guidelines; this study will provide information that may support decision makers to regulate the discharge of these compounds to the environment.

 

Responses of benthic communities (meio- and macrofauna) to changes in the southern Baltic inshore sedimentary habitat produced by dredging spoil dumping

Teresa Radziejewska, University of Szczecin, teresa.radziejewska@usz.edu.pl

Brygida Wawrzyniak-Wydrowska, University of Szczecin (presenter); Bartosz Bieniek, University of Szczecin; Anna Grabia, University of Szczecin

Sediment and benthos in two dumping grounds for dredging waste disposal in the southern Baltic was studied. Meio- and macrofauna responded rapidly to dumping at its initial phase, and equally rapid recovered when dumping was temporarily suspended. The benthos remained impoverished in the altered habitat after termination of dumping, reflecting the severity of habitat change.

Coastal development calls for removal of sediment and depositing it at designated dumping grounds, which produces environmental disturbance. While the location of dumping grounds is an aspect of marine spatial planning, environmental (incl. biotic) effects require monitoring of community responses to the disturbance severity and persistence. In 2011-2017, we followed changes in sediment characteristics and in descriptors of benthic assemblages (abundance, biomass, composition) in two shallow coastal areas serving as dumping grounds for dredging waste from a new harbour being constructed at the coast. The benthos responded rapidly (abundance and biomass reduction, altered composition) to the disturbance at its initial phase, and equally rapidly recovered when dumping was temporarily suspended. After the dumping operations were resumed, the responses intensified and expanded spatially, although apparent colonizers (benthic copepods in the meiobenthos and juvenile molluscs in the macrobenthos) tended to appear intermittently in the disturbed areas. Impoverishment of the benthic communities in the altered habitat persisted after termination of dumping.

 

Future ecosystem services of the Curonian lagoon: climate change perspective

Arturas Razinkovas-Baziukas, Klaipeda University, arturas.razinkovas-baziukas@ku.lt (presenter)

Vaidotas Andrašūnas, Klaipeda University; Dalia Baziukė, Klaipeda University; Edgaras Ivanauskas, Klaipeda University; Karolina Kaziukonytė,, Klaipeda University; Rasa Morkūnė, Klaipeda University; Georg Umgiesser, Institute of Marine Sciences, CNR, Venice, Italy

We applied downscaled CC scenarios using SHYFEM model in conjunction with BBN to predict ES of the lagoon. Revealed trend towards the increase of cyanobacteria blooms leads to the cascading effects on the regulatory ecosystem services, while the effect on the provisional services and cultural services linked to the fishery stocks was expected to be more complex.

The ecosystem of Curonian lagoon, the largest coastal lagoon in Europe is known to be largely controlled by the ambient physical factors such as riverine discharges and water temperature. We used the riverine inputs, water renewal time and temperature as a statistical proxy for the cyanobacteria development combining both modelled and observed data for years 2004-2016. The above parameters combined with flood extent in the Nemunas river delta were also connected to the catches, CPUE and mortality of the most important commercial fish species using BBN. Climate scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 data downscaled to the Lithuanian coast with SHYFEM model produced the hydraulic circulation and temperature patterns in the lagoon up to year 2050, which in turn fed into BBN to predict both ChlA and populations of commercial fish species. Our analysis revealed a clear trend towards the enhancement of cyanobacteria blooms in the future leading to the cascading effects on the regulatory ecosystem services, while the effect on the provisional services (commercial fish catches) and cultural services linked to the fishery stocks (recreational fishery) was expected to be more complex.

 

Revisiting particularity in calibration of the spectral wave model MIKE SW against directional waverider buoy data

Andrei Sokolov, Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, tengritag@gmail.com (presenter)

Boris Chubarenko, Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences

Sensitivity analysis showed that the most important parameter affecting the modeling results is Cdis, wave energy dissipation due to white capping. Cdis needed to obtain correct results is dependent on the wind data and on the buoy itself. Its location and/or technical characteristics. Correlation coefficient, RMSE, Bias and Scatter Indexes were used to compare the model and measurement results.

Calibration of model parameters is a necessary step if we want that model gives correct results. During the calibration of the spectral wave model MIKE SW for the Baltic Sea, we dealt with several particularities. (i) Sensitivity analysis showed that the most important parameter affecting the modeling results is Cdis. Cdis is a wave energy dissipation coefficient due to white capping. (ii) If we use the particular time series of the buoy data for calibration, Cdis needed to obtain correct results is directly dependent on the wind data. I.e. we should correct Cdis value for each wind data source used for simulations (for example, reanalysis data, direct wind measurements with particular meteorological station etc.). (iii) The Cdis value needed to get the correct results also depends on the buoy itself. Its location and/or technical characteristics. For example, we got Cdis=1 for the buoy located in the nearshore zone and Cdis=3 for the buoy located in the open sea under the same wind conditions from the reanalysis data. Correlation coefficient, root mean square error, Bias and Scatter Indexes were used to compare the model solution with measurements in RFBR Project 18-05-80035a.

 

Three-dimensional LOGOS simulations of a Chelyabinsk-like meteorite fall into the Baltic Sea

Elena Tyatyushkina, Nizhny Novgorod Technical University n.a. R.A. Alexeev, leno4ka-07@mail.ru (presenter)

Andrey Kozelkov, Nizhny Novgorod Technical University n.a. R.A. Alexeev; Andrey Kurkin, Nizhny Novgorod Technical University n.a. R.A. Alexeev; Vadim Kurulin, FSUE “RFNC-VNIIEF“; Efim Pelinovsky, Nizhny Novgorod Technical University n.a. R.A. Alexeev

The paper discusses simulations of a Chelyabinsk-like meteorite fall into the Baltic Sea. The simulations were done based on the three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations. The report describes the physical and mathematical model and the numerical simulation technology. Numerical simulations are presented for a number of cases with variation of meteorite velocity and diameter.

The most complete system of equations that allows incorporating specific modeling features of waves caused by a meteorite fall is the Navier-Stokes system. It enables end-to-end modeling of all process stages: entry of a solid object into water, evolution of the wave pattern, run-up of waves onto the shore. The technology also naturally accounts for the bottom topography.

To simulate a meteorite fall into the Baltic Sea followed by propagation and run-up of waves, this work combines the Navier-Stokes equations with the Volume of Fluid method. The numerical algorithm that we use is based on a modification of the SIMPLE method with a fully implicit integration scheme. Motion of a solid body is modeled using the overlapping-grids method.

The paper reports the results of simulations of a meteorite fall into the Baltic Sea for various meteorite parameters. The diameter of a meteorite, the fall of which into the Baltic Sea can be potentially hazardous, is estimated.

This work has been funded by grants of the President of the Russian Federation (MD-4874.2018.9) and state support of leading schools of thought of the Russian Federation (NSh-2685.2018.5).

 

Effect of microplastics on common Baltic bivalves

Barbara Urban-Malinga, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, bmalinga@mir.gdynia.pl (presenter)

Magdalena Jakubowska, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute; Marcin Białowąs, National Marine Fisheries Research Institute

The effect of commercial polyethylene microplastics on two different Baltic bivalves was studied. No mortality of deeply burying Limecola balthica was observed, while mortality of Cerastoderma glaucum varied between 5 and 10 %. Vertical distribution of microplastics in the sediment column was investigated to study the effect of different bivalve life styles on microplastics transport.

A microcosm experiment was performed to study the effect of commercial microplastics on two common Baltic bivalve species differing in terms of their life¬style and feeding behavior: Cerastoderma glaucum (a suspension feeder and biodiffuser that lives actively near the sediment surface) and Limecola balthica (a facultative deposit- and suspension-feeder that lives in deeper sediment layers). Three size fractions of polyethylene microplastics (63-75, 150-180, 250-300 µm) were added to the microcosms with sandy sediment and bivalves to obtain final concentrations of 0,1 and 0,5 % sediment d.wt. No bivalve mortality was observed both in treatment with deeply burying L. balthica and in C. glaucum treatment with the smallest microplastics concentration. Exposure of C. glaucum to higher concentration resulted in mortality of the bivalve that varied between 5 and 10 % in treatments with the medium/large and the smallest microplastic size fractions, respectively. Microplastic ingestion by the bivalves and vertical distribution of microplastics in the sediment column were investigated to study the effect of different bivalve life styles on microplastics transport.

 

Comparison of in situ sediment remediation techniques with Polonite, activated carbon and aluminium: effects on benthic fluxes of nutrients, methane and contaminants

Johan Wikström, DEEP, johanw@mail.com (presenter)

Stefano Bonaglia, DEEP; Gunno Renman, KTH; Jakob Walve, DEEP; Johanna Hedberg, DEEP; Tomas Thillman, DEEP; Jonas Gunnarsson, DEEP

Three sediment remediation techniques were compared: 1) injection with aluminium, 2) capping with Polonite (calcareous silicate), 3) capping with activated carbon to counteract Phosphorous and contaminant release from sediment cores from a polluted lake in Stockholm (Brunnsviken). Potential side-effects on ecosystem functions (nutrient fluxes, O2 respiration, methane release) were also evaluated.

Injection of polyaluminium chloride (PAX) and capping with calcareous silicate minerals such as Polonite® have been proposed as sediment remediation methods to increase phosphate (P) sequestration and counteract eutrophication. Capping with activated carbon (AC) has been proposed as a method for trapping organic contaminants. We present a microscosm study with intact sediment cores from a polluted lake in Stockholm, where 1) injection with PAX, 2) capping with Polonite, 3) composite mixtures of PAX or Polonite with AC were compared for their efficiency to sequester P, metals and organic contaminants (PAH and PCB). Further the side effects of these treatments were also evaluated on nutrient, O2 and methane fluxes. Our results show that capping with AC significantly decreased the release of PAHs and PCBs. PAX injection immobilized P but increased release of low- and medium weight PAHs, and impacted nitrogen cycling, perhaps due to the resulting acidic environment. TLC with Polonite increased P retention but caused a release of methane. We recommend that side-effects on ecosystem functions need to be studied further before these methods can be recommended.

 

An efficient and gentle enzymatic digestion protocol for the extraction of microplastics from marine biota

Lisa W. von Friesen, IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute, lisa.vonfriesen@ivl.se (presenter)

Maria E. Granberg, IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute; Martin Hassellöv, University of Gothenburg; Geir W. Gabrielsen, Norwegian Polar Institute; Anna-Sara Krång, IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute; Kerstin Magnusson, IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute

A novel protocol for digestion of biological tissue for microplastic extraction and analysis has been developed. It demonstrates high digestion efficiencies already over-night and does not impact neither pre-weathered plastic polymers nor textile fiber polymers. The protocol is suggested to fulfil requirements of a standardized method and to be widely applicable for microplastic investigations.

Standardized methods for the digestion of biota for microplastic extraction and analysis are currently lacking. Chemical methods can be effective, but can also cause damage to some polymers. Enzymatic methods are known to be gentler, but often laborious, expensive and time consuming. A novel tissue digestion method with pancreatic enzymes and a pH buffer (Tris) has been developed and demonstrates a highly efficient removal of bivalve tissue (97.7 ± 0.2 % dry weight loss) already over-night. Furthermore, it induces no impairment in terms of ability to correctly identify four pre-weathered plastic polymers and six textile fiber polymers by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy after exposure. The high-throughput protocol requires minimal handling, is of low cost and does not pose risk to the performer or the environment. It is therefore suggested as a candidate for a standardized digestion protocol, enabling successful analysis of microplastics ingested by bivalves.

 

Late Holocene land-use history in the Baltic Sea Proper coastal area, southeastern Sweden

Olena Vinogradova, Södertörn University, Stockholm, Sweden, olena.vinogradova@sh.se (presenter)

Johan Rönnby, Södertörn University, Stockholm, Sweden; Veronica Palm, Södertörn University, Stockholm, Sweden; Marie-José Gaillard-Lemdahl, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden; Elinor Andrén, Södertörn University, Stockholm, Sweden; Thomas Andrén, Södertörn University, Stockholm, Sweden

We present the last 2500 years of land-use history in the Baltic Sea coastal area (SE Sweden) based on palaeoecological and archeological data. The study is part of the SEASIDE project. Continuous human occupation and agriculture lead to significant opening of the landscape over Iron Age and Middle Ages, which may have caused erosion of nutrients to the Baltic Sea long before the industrial era.

We present a reconstruction of the last 2500 years of local land-use history from the Baltic Sea Proper coastal area of southeastern Sweden based on fossil pollen, microcharcoal and archeological data. The study is part of the ongoing SEASIDE project that aims to evaluate the role of past climatic and anthropogenic factors as drivers of changes in the Baltic Sea environmental status through time. To achieve this goal, changes in land use at several lake sites on land will be correlated with diatom and geochemical stratigraphies from the adjacent Baltic Proper offshore coastal zone. Continuous human occupation around Lake Lillsjön is documented for the last 2500 years. Today the lake surroundings are characterized by ca.60% openland within 3km radius. Pollen data indicate larger openness than today from 1550 CE to 1950 CE. From Roman Iron Age (1700 BP) and throughout Middle Ages, openness was slightly lower than today. Deforestation by fire is indicated from Iron Age until 1850 CE. These results suggest that human activities lead to significant opening of the landscape from at least 1700 BP, which may have caused erosion of nutrients to the Baltic Sea long before the industrial era.

 

Impact of elevated dissolved organic matter on pelagic microbial community composition

Li Zhao, Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Umeå University, li.zhao@umu.se (presenter)

Sonia Brugel, Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Umeå University; Agneta Andersson, Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, Umeå University

More and more allochthonous dissolved organic matter (Al DOM) were flushed into the coastal DOM pool. DOM as the carbon source for microbial metabolism plays an important role in shaping the microbial communities’ structure in the marine food web. We will investigate the Impact of this increased DOM on pelagic microbial community composition by both microscopic technique and molecular method.

The changing climate will lead to an increase of river inflow, which will bring large amounts of allochthonous dissolved organic matter (Al DOM) into the sea. This recalcitrant OM may mix with more labile autochthonous dissolved organic matter (At DOM) in the coastal region, then leading to the change of DOM composition in the marine ecosystem. DOM is a fundamental energy source for microbial metabolism and is a very important driver for shaping the microbial communities’ structure in the marine food web.

In this project, we selected 2 bays one has big river inflow and the other does not conduct a field experiment. Terrestrial organic matter and plankton has been added to different treatments and cultivated in situ for two days. We are going to use both molecular method (16S and 18S) and microscopic technique to look at the microbial compositions. We hypothesize that bays with large river inflow of terrestrial DOM have different microbial community composition compared to bays which do not receive river inflow.