Research Group Heinz

Foraminifera in Arctic Marine Ecosystems

Foraminifera are unicellular organisms and an abundant and important element of modern and past marine ecosystems. Most foraminifera build a solid test with a high fossilization potential, and they are important tools for reconstructions in paleoecology and paleoceanography, especially in polar regions. We are analyzing species composition and biodiversity, biogeographic ranges, trophic interactions, abundances and fossil assemblages of benthic and planktonic foraminifera in different arctic areas to find out more about foraminiferal life and the influence of different environmental factors on foraminifera. This will help to improve our reconstructions of past environmental conditions and the influence of different water masses.