Cold winters and ice cover are beneficial for the coastal ecosystem of the Baltic Sea, according to researchers.
Research conducted by scientists highlighted the impact of cold winters on the Baltic Sea, particularly on coastal erosion and marine life. Maija Viลกka, a researcher specializing in coastal erosion, explained that the recent freezing of both the water at the coast and the coast itself has led to a period of relative calm, during which active erosion processes are reduced. This freezing serves as a protective barrier against harsh winter storms, which, if they were to strike unfrozen coasts, could exacerbate erosion significantly.
The researchers noted that the presence of ice along the coast benefits local ecosystems. Anda Ikauniece observed that cold winters particularly favor arctic phytoplankton species, which thrive in colder water conditions. The early seasonal bloom of these algae not only enhances the environment but also has positive implications for the entire marine ecosystem. This increase in primary production supports a broader range of marine life, eventually benefiting fish populations as more energy becomes accessible through the food web.
Overall, the findings suggest that harsh winter conditions can have unexpectedly positive impacts on the Baltic Sea ecosystem. The freezing events help maintain balance by protecting coastlines from erosion and stimulating primary production, which is crucial for the health of marine ecosystems. As climate variability continues to affect weather patterns, understanding these dynamics will be essential for marine conservation efforts in the region.
