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

Four small silver fish lie on a table.
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

An iceberg and ice floes floating on the sea
01.12.2025

Expansion of Antarctic Bottom Water contributed to the End of the Last Ice Age

New study highlights the key role of the Southern Ocean in the Earth’s climate system

 Mesocosms (orange steel frames with transparent sheets and umbrella-like covers) float in a fjord with snow-capped mountains in the background.
17.11.2025

Marine scientists call for clear rules on Carbon Dioxide Removal methods

European Marine Board working group recommends harmonised standards for marine CDR approaches

Manipulator arm at a black smoker
24.10.2025

A Highway for Iron in the Ocean

New study identifies hydrothermal vents as underestimated sources of important nutrients in the sea