The Baltic Sea | The Future For Microplankton In

Increased risk of toxic blooms and further oxygen depletion. Decrease

: Higher levels of dissolved organic matter from land runoff will favor heterotrophic bacteria over primary-producing phytoplankton in the north. The future for microplankton in the Baltic Sea

: High levels of nitrogen and phosphorus continue to trigger massive algal blooms and expand "dead zones" (anoxic areas), which further promote cyanobacterial growth through the release of sediment phosphorus. Shifts in Community Composition Plankton Group Projected Future Trend Impact on Ecosystem Cyanobacteria Significant Increase Increased risk of toxic blooms and further oxygen depletion

Smaller rotifers and ciliates will thrive in warmer, less saline waters. Decrease The future for microplankton in the Baltic Sea

by 2100. Warming accelerates the growth of certain cyanobacteria and shifts the timing of spring blooms earlier in the season.

units. This favors freshwater-tolerant species while negatively impacting marine-originated diatoms, dinoflagellates, and large zooplankton.

Reports from the HELCOM Fact Sheets emphasize that these climate-induced pressures make simple management solutions difficult, as the responses vary significantly across different basins of the Baltic Sea. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more