The Mediterranean Sea, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and biological diversity, experiences different seasons much like human skin, which have profound effects on its marine ecosystem and the bioactive compounds found within. This blog post sheds light on how these seasonal changes impact marine inhabitants and the bioactive substances derived from the sea.
Spring in the Mediterranean:
Spring brings a warming of the water surface and an increase in sunlight. These changes promote the growth of phytoplankton, the base of the marine food chain. The abundance of plankton attracts a variety of fish and marine animals, creating a rich marine ecosystem. Simultaneously, the production of marine bioactives such as algae extracts, known for their health-promoting properties, increases.
Summer:
During summer, the Mediterranean reaches its highest temperatures, posing challenges for certain sensitive species like corals. Elevated temperatures can lead to lower oxygen concentrations in the water, straining marine life. Nevertheless, the warm waters provide ideal conditions for the synthesis of specific compounds, particularly antioxidative substances in marine plants, which serve as protection against UV radiation.
Autumn:
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stormier sea conditions. These changes often lead to migrations of fish and other marine creatures in search of optimal living conditions. During this time, the available marine bioactives can change as the composition of plankton and other marine organisms shifts.
Winter:
In winter, the sea calms down, and temperatures drop. These cooler conditions require adaptations from marine inhabitants to survive. During this period, there may be a change in the availability and composition of marine bioactives as the metabolic processes of organisms slow down.
Conclusion:
The seasons of the Mediterranean play a crucial role in the balance and health of the ecosystem. These cyclical changes not only affect marine life but also the quality and availability of marine bioactives, which are significant for medicine and the cosmetic industry. It is, therefore, of utmost importance to protect and sustainably use this delicate ecosystem to preserve its beauty and biological diversity for future generations.