ITV News visits Plymouth Marine Laboratory to find out more about the marine heatwave

29 June 2023

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The crew from both ITN and ITV Westcountry interviewed Plankton Ecologist Claire Widdicombe in the laboratory, to examine samples of plankton under the microscope, and to hear about how rising temperatures can affect these microscopic organisms at the base of the marine food web.  

“Species that are more akin to the Mediterranean are actually starting to track up towards us. So, we're on the lookout for new species that may come and may disappear, or they may come and be established.”  

Having also interviewed Dan Smale from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) on his work to understand the effects of marine heatwaves, the crew came out for sampling on our research vessel Plymouth Quest, to record the temperature of the ocean at different depths. 

As part of our ongoing work in the Western Channel Observatory, we have recorded ocean temperature and a range of other parameters for over 30 years – making it one of the best understood areas of Ocean in the world. 

Whilst onboard the vessel, ITV News spoke to PML’s Director of Science Professor Steve Widdicombe, about how rising sea temperatures can disrupt vital marine processes, contributing to marine deoxygenation, and also potentially reducing the amount of carbon stored in the ocean.  

Steve said: “The Ocean is affected by many different complex factors. Organisms and ecosystems are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature and PH so it’s vital we monitor them closely to understand the effects.”   

Above: Our Director of Science Professor Steve Widdicombe speaking to ITV News 

Above: Our Plankton Ecologist and Phytoplankton Lead in the Western Channel Observatory Claire Widdicombe with the ITV News film crew. 

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