Marine Life

From the sunlit surface to the dark deep sea: The ocean is home to a wealth of life. Many of the animals and plants in the sea are especially adapted to an existence in a certain environment – for example on hydrothermal vents, manganese nodule fields or seamounts.

Their biodiversity supports important ocean functions such as climate regulation or the supply of food and raw or natural materials. However, climate change, plastic pollution and other human impacts affect marine life. Therefore, GEOMAR Researchers investigate key ecosystems, effects of changes and possibilities for their protection and sustainable use.

 

 

News about Marine Life

Arne Körtzinger (scientist at GEOMAR) stands behind a lectern during the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) 2025.
06.01.2026

UNESCO Chair in Integrated Marine Sciences Extended

Prof. Dr Arne Körtzinger (GEOMAR) and Prof. Dr Silja Klepp (CAU) will remain in office until 2029.

On board the METEOR, a scientist cuts through a rock sample with a circular saw. She wears ear protection and a face shield.
29.01.2026

The “Grand Canyon” of the Atlantic

How a shifting plate boundary and hot mantle material formed one of the largest canyons in the ocean

A medium-sized research vessel on the water
15.12.2025

How can the environmental health of the Baltic Sea be improved?

Interreg project RECOVER develops a digital management system for the Baltic Sea

Watercolour painting: The picture shows a flounder, which is a flatfish with dark spots.
04.12.2025

Festive Christmas Dinner: Only ‘Good Fish’ on the Table

GEOMAR, environmental organisations and consumer advice centres update their joint list of ‘good fish’ for conscious purchasing of sea fish

People gather for a group photo, holding a banner in their hands.
01.12.2025

Launch of the FUTURO research programme

West African and European partners are developing a long-term research programme with a one-year observation campaign off the coast of West Africa