Scientists and researchers spent four weeks on the seas, measuring oxygen levels of the bottom of the Gulf of Finland, the Gulf of Bothnia and the Northern Baltic.
Oxygen levels in the Baltic have been very low for the past several years, and improvements have only begun to be seen in the past year. In southern parts of the Gulf of Bothnia oxygen levels have worsened. Additionally, high levels of hydrogen sulfide were found on the bottom of central and northern portions of the Gulf.
There have been improvements in some regions of the Gulf of Bothnia where increased oxygen levels have been found. There also appears to be an increase of small marine organisms called Monoporeia affinis, which increased some oxygen levels in the Gulf of Bothnia.
Micro-organisms on the sea bottom play a vital role in the marine ecosystem. Their presence and activity oxygenates and cultivates bottom sediment. These tiny organisms also act as the seas’ water treatment plant by breaking down organic material.
The organisms are also an important source of food for many fish species. Additionally, these organisms live relatively long lives and give researchers clues about the condition and future of seas.