Arctic Biology

30 April 2012

A warmer ocean climate has resulted in Atlantic cod and haddock extending further into Arctic waters, presenting a potential threat to the native polar cod which is an important part of the high Arctic ecosystem. However, a new study by scientists in Svalbard and Tromsø reveals there is little competition for food between the invaders and the polar cod.

12 March 2012

Polish scientists have identified a new species of water bears in Svalbard and named it after Dr. Steve Coulson.

– I am ridiculously proud, says the UNIS  associate professor in terrestrial ecology.

16 January 2012

New research shows that a warmer climate will have quite different consequences for plant species in the Arctic. While most species are expected to lose part of their current habitat, the genetic consequences will differ markedly among species. The research results will have major impact on future conservation efforts.

30 September 2011

A helicopter crashed and sank in Adventfjorden in December 2003, never to be seen again – until last week. An underwater robot was cruising at 70 meters depth to take images of the ocean floor for a UNIS research project, when it hit upon the remains of the helicopter.

23 September 2011

New research shows that humans can unwittingly bring alien plant species to Svalbard. Increased travel activity and expected temperature increases over the next decades, may make the establishment of new plant species in the archipelago’s vulnerable ecosystem possible. This calls for a closer look at the management policy for travelling to Svalbard.