AMR Future Brief| Exploring the Notable Technology-Driven Innovations in Aquatic Ecology

Aquatic ecology is the branch of ecology that focuses on the interactions between organisms and their environments in water-based ecosystems. This field encompasses the study of both freshwater and marine ecosystems. Aquatic ecosystems are very diverse, playing an important role in maintaining the planet's environment, balancing the global carbon cycle, and regulating climate. The study of aquatic ecology also focuses on physical factors such as temperature, water flow, salinity, and nutrient availability along with the relationship between plants, animals, and microorganisms and their environment.??

Remote sensing, eDNA, and robotics shaping the future of aquatic ecosystem monitoring?

The rapid evolution of technology and scientific methodologies has greatly expanded the capabilities of aquatic ecologists. These advancements are helping researchers better understand aquatic ecosystems , assess environmental changes, and create solutions to protect and restore water-based habitats.??

Remote sensing technologies, such as satellite imaging and drone surveillance, have revolutionized the study of aquatic ecosystems. Satellite-based tools such as Landsat and MODIS provide detailed and consistent data on water quality, land use changes, and vegetation cover. These data sets allow ecologists to monitor changes in water temperature, sediment levels, and the spread of harmful algal blooms across large areas, often in real time. For example, NASA’s Ocean Color satellite sensors have enabled scientists to observe phytoplankton populations in the world's oceans. Phytoplankton is an important component of marine food webs and an essential player in the carbon cycle. By tracking phytoplankton blooms, researchers can assess the health of marine ecosystems and predict potential ecological disruptions.??

One of the most exciting recent advancements in aquatic ecology is the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) for species detection and monitoring. eDNA refers to genetic material obtained from environmental samples including water, sediment, or ice. As organisms move through their environment, they shed DNA in the form of skin cells, feces, or secretions. Scientists now analyze these traces to identify the presence and distribution of species without having to capture or observe them directly. This method has proven useful for tracking rare and invasive species that can threaten aquatic biodiversity. eDNA is also being used to monitor microbial communities and assess the health of ecosystems. It has opened new possibilities for conservation and resource management in both freshwater and marine environments.?

On the other hand, technological advancements in aquatic robotics provide new ways to explore and study aquatic ecosystems. Aquatic drones and AUVs are now being deployed to collect data from deep-sea environments and other areas that are difficult for humans to access. Equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and sonar, these vehicles are capable of measuring temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels, and even mapping the seafloor. For instance, AUVs have been used to explore hydrothermal vents in the deep ocean, uncovering new species and ecosystems that were previously unknown to science. In freshwater ecosystems, drones are being used to survey river systems and monitor the effects of pollution or habitat fragmentation on aquatic species.?

As ecologists collect vast amounts of data from satellites, drones , sensors, and eDNA samples, there is a growing need for efficient ways to process and analyze this information. Enter machine learning and big data analytics . These tools are being increasingly used to detect patterns and predict ecological changes in aquatic systems. ML algorithms analyze environmental data to model the impacts of climate change, forecast the spread of invasive species, or predict fish population dynamics. This approach allows scientists to identify correlations that can be missed through traditional analysis, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities of aquatic ecosystems.?

Sweco and Trinity Consultants join forces to strengthen their aquatic expertise?

In September 2023, Sweco, a European engineering consultancy company, announced its acquisition of Medins Havs och Vattenkonsulter AB, a Swedish environmental consulting firm. This acquisition has made Sweco the leading aquatic environment consulting firm in Sweden, possessing nearly 100 experts. Ann-Louise L?kholm Klasson, President of Sweco Sweden, said that with this agreement the company welcomes 35 new colleagues, whose expertise is expected to become an important part of Sweco’s full-service offering. Olof Nilsson, CEO of Medins Havs och Vattenkonsulter expressed that both companies aim to combine their specialties and offer a unique holistic perspective that creates opportunities for clients and employees in this domain across the globe.??

Moreover, in November 2023, Trinity Consultants, a renowned environmental consulting firm acquired WestLand Resources, an engineering and environmental consultancy. With this strategic move, the companies envision expanding their water resources engineering, landscape architecture, habitat restoration and natural resource management, facility compliance, and geographic information services in North America.??

The final words?

Aquatic ecology is evolving rapidly, influenced by technological advancements including genetics, robotics, and data science. These innovations enable researchers to gain deeper insights into aquatic ecosystems, identify emerging threats, and develop new methods for conservation and restoration. Moreover, the growing contribution of leading players in this domain is expected to safeguard the health and biodiversity of the planet’s water ecosystem in the future.??

To gain more insights into the latest advances in aquatic ecology, feel free to talk to our industry analyst here ! You can also chat with them for any further queries.?

? **?????????????? ????????????: Rosy Behera ?

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