WP3

Innovations in Technology and Methodology 

• Task 3.1 Automated platform for the observation of Phytoplankton diversity in relation to ecosystem services
• Task 3.2 Developments on current observations from HF radars 
• Task 3.3 Profiling coastal waters
• Task 3.4 Microbial and molecular sensors
• Task 3.5 Combined sensors for carbonate systems
• Task 3.6 Benthic compartment and process
• Task 3.7 OSE/OSSE (Observing System Experiment/Observing System Simulation Experiment) technology

Objectives:

The overall objective of this first JRA work package is to enhance the capability and the quality of measurements in the coastal infrastructures, taking advantage of the strong consortium of partners who are responsible for the majority of coastal observatories in Europe. Considering that coastal systems are very dynamic both in terms of physics and biology, something that is reflected in the existing observation methods, a multi-disciplinary approach is followed. The experience gained from JERICO (FP7) played a central role in the planning and strategic decisions made for the focus in this WP. Particular emphasis will be paid to the biological components of the ecosystem.

Tasks 3.1 will focus on autonomous systems for phytoplankton biodiversity by improving, combining, and implementing innovative sensors. Task 3.2 will improve the quality and extensive capabilities of HF Radar data by integrating surface observations with vertical information from the other observing components. Task 3.3 will enhance our capacities for innovative, cost-effective, autonomous observing systems investigating the physical and biogeochemical processes throughout the water column from the surface to the sea floor in coastal waters. Task 3.4 will focus on the development of innovative biosensors for harmful algal blooms, microbial community changes and pollutants while improving current platforms and sampling methods to accommodate these technologies. Considering changes in the carbon cycle are both significant and fast in the coastal systems, Task 3.5 will further develop sensor systems for carbonate measurements to enable detection of the carbon cycle variability in the coastal area. Task 3.6 will advance work on the benthic compartment through the development of a new mobile carrier for images and the monitoring of mineralisation of organic matter. Finally task 3.7 advances the work accomplished in JERICO (FP7) on OSEs (Observing System Experiments) and OSSEs (Observing System Simulation Experiments) towards the biogeochemical component. WP3 will be conducted in close collaboration with JRAPs strongly connected to TNA activities in WP7.