3. Building e-oceans to help us filling our knowledge gaps
In a digital era, the possibilities to study and model the ocean and its inhabitants have become endless. The field of bioinformatics has grown exponentially over the last 20 years, leading to several well-established e-infrastructures, global databases and digital twins of the ocean. In addition, innovative techniques for species descriptions or biodiversity studies, using high-tech equipment have increased our understanding of marine biodiversity.
3.1 Bringing marine ecosystem modelling in operation to predict and protect ocean biodiversity.
Convenors:
Simone Libralato (National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics)
Sakina-Dorothee Ayata (Sorbonne University)
Summary:
Operational marine ecosystem modeling has become an essential tool for understanding and predicting changes in marine biodiversity. While significant progress has been made in biodiversity monitoring, critical knowledge gaps remain in marine species, population and community dynamics, and their adaptation to climate change. Advances in data science, marine ecosystem modelling, and AI-driven data analysis are transforming our ability to study ocean ecosystems at unprecedented scales.
Modern ecosystem models integrate a diversity of datasets, including from remote sensing, autonomous platforms, and high-resolution in situ observations. These models simulate complex trophic interactions, track habitat changes, and assess the impacts of environmental stressors on biodiversity. AI and machine learning enhance prediction capabilities, supporting accurate predictions of ecosystem shifts and population dynamics in response to climate variability and human activities.
A prime example of these advancements is the NECCTON (New Copernicus Capability for Trophic Ocean Networks) project, which enhances the Copernicus Marine Service by improving ecosystem modeling frameworks and in particular our capabilities to simulate (the diversity of) marine life. NECCTON refines trophic network simulations and incorporates novel data streams to provide highresolution insights into biodiversity trends and ecosystem functioning. By strengthening digital infrastructures and supporting open-access biodiversity modelling platforms, NECCTON contributes to better-informed conservation strategies and marine resource management.
This session will explore recent innovations in operational marine ecosystem modeling and their applications in biodiversity monitoring and projections. Discussions will highlight the integration of advanced computational tools, bioinformatics and digital twins, in refining marine ecosystem predictions. The session aims to showcase how cutting-edge modeling techniques bridge existing knowledge gaps, supporting global efforts to monitor and protect marine biodiversity in a rapidly changing ocean.
3.2 Digital Twins and AI Applications for Marine Biodiversity & Ecosystems: From Virtual Oceans to Real-World Impact
Convenors:
Carlota Muñiz (Flanders Marine Institute)
Frederic Leclercq (Flanders Marine Institute)
Summary:
Advances in digital technologies, particularly the development of Digital Twins of the Ocean (DTO), machine learning, and artificial intelligence, are transforming the way we study and manage marine ecosystems. As oceans face unprecedented challenges from climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction, these innovative tools are becoming essential to understand, predict, and mitigate impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Digital twins—virtual replicas of real-world marine environments—are revolutionizing ocean research by enabling real-time monitoring, scenario testing, and data-driven decision-making. Boosted by semi- or fully automated sensor technologies that generate rapidly expanding volumes of data, and by the integration of diverse sources—such as underwater imagery, acoustic recordings, satellite data, or oceanographic sensors—these approaches allow more accurate monitoring, prediction, and understanding of complex marine systems. Initiatives such as the EDITO infrastructure, a cornerstone of the EU’s Digital Twin of the Ocean, are further strengthening this transformation by providing the digital backbone to integrate, simulate, and share ocean knowledge for science, policy, and society.
The session, “Digital Twins and AI Applications for Marine Biodiversity & Ecosystems: From Virtual Oceans to Real-World Impact”, targets the presentation of innovative concepts, case studies, and AI-powered models demonstrating how digital twins and machine learning are applied in marine biodiversity and ecosystems. The session aims to foster discussion on opportunities, challenges, and future directions, while encouraging collaboration among marine scientists, conservationists, technology developers, and policymakers. Together, we will explore how cutting-edge digital technologies are shaping the future of ocean conservation.
