James Borrell is a biodiversity scientist and science communicator researching how people and nature can adapt to environmental change.

Citizen Science Challenge #8: Oceans

“The marine phytoplankton account for approximately 50% of all photosynthesis on Earth and, through the plankton food web that they support, they both underpin the marine food chain and play a central role in the global carbon cycle strongly influencing the Earth’s climate.

Living at the surface of the sea the phytoplankton are particularly sensitive to changes in sea surface temperature. A recent study of global phytoplankton abundance over the last century concluded that global phytoplankton concentrations have declined due to rising sea surface temperatures as a consequence of current climate change.

We need to know much more about these changes and you can help by making a simple piece of scientific equipment called a Secchi Disk and using the Secchi App.”

– The Secchi Project

 

http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Secchi-poster.jpg

How to Take Part:

http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HowToMakeSecchiDisk1.png
http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HowToMakeSecchiDisk2.png
http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HowToUseSecchi-Disk1.png
http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HowToUseDisk2.png

The Tutorial:

Step 1 – Take a look at this Prezzi, which tells you all about the app.

Watch the Video!

Step 2 – Take a look at this video, to find out more about the project.

Download the App:

Step 3 – Download the Secchi App online, it couldn’t be easier! You can also look back at recent news and updates.

Secchi Project In The News:

Evangelise:

Have you given the Secchi Project (or any of the other citizen science projects!) a go? Share your experiences with everyone else in the comments below.

Like:

Share:

Other Useful Resources…

http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/BlankMap-World-noborders2test2resized_edited-1-w960-h600.png

Aspiring conservationist? Interested in expeditions and adventure? Browse some resources that might be useful…

http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_18_Antonio-and-canoes-cropped.jpg

Useful nuggets of information in no particular order…

http://www.jamesborrell.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2202edit1small.jpg

Articles from field scientists describing the reality of working in remote and challenging conditions around the world, with tips for aspiring conservationists…