Research lines

To fulfill the above mentioned goals, several research lines are currently developing, including both classic and emerging methodologies:

(i) Diversity. Taxonomic identification of the different planktonic taxa by means of classic optical techniques. Application of molecular techniques to resolve taxonomic uncertainties. Determination of taxa assemblages, as well as recognition of key species in many pelagic ecosystems.
(ii) Time-series. Analysis of the components of planktonic communities and their variation in different spatio-temporal scales. Relationship with hydrological and climatic variables. Application of semi-automatic methods to identify, count and estimate biomass of zooplankton components.
(iii) Trophic interactions. Determination of key zooplanktonic species in the diet of larvae, juveniles and adult of fish of commercial interest. Analysis of gut contents and their relationship with available zooplankton prey in the field. Application of biochemical tools –lipids and fatty acids- to establish the nutritional status of predators and prey. Fish species of both current (Engraulis anchoita, Scomber japonicus and Merluccius hubbsi) and potential commercial interest are considered (Trachurus lathami).
(iv) Satellite oceanography. Analysis of temporal and spatial changes in environmental factors that might affect planktonic communities, by combining satellite (intensity, start and duration of phytoplankton blooms, sea surface temperature) and in situ data.
(v) Fish recruitment. Production of recruitment indices for fish of commercial interest.