Baltic Breakfast: Microbes in the Baltic Sea – more important than we think
Microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, play a vital role in sustaining life in the oceans. Although small and difficult to study, they are central to nutrient and biogeochemical cycling, drive chemical transformations in sediments, and help regulate of climate-active gases such as methane.
28 January 2026.
Microbiologists have long studied bacteria and other organisms in the oceans, but advances over the past decade have transformed our understanding of the diversity of life and the roles microbes play in the ecosystem. Through ‘omics’ approaches, it is possible to uncover the complete genetic and molecular profiles of aquatic and sedimentary organisms, revealing how they interact, gain energy, and adapt to changing conditions.
This growing knowledge is a powerful tool for environmental monitoring. From just a litre of seawater or a few grams of sediment, entire microbial communities can be explored, showing how these invisible organisms support food webs, recycle nutrients, and support the health of the environment. But also sheds light on ancient life on Earth and even possible life beyond our planet.
So, what do we know about microbes so far? What role do they play in ecosystems? How can they contribute to increased knowledge and understanding of the oceans?
Welcome to a breakfast seminar about the smallest creatures in the sea!
Speakers:
Emma Bell, Researcher at Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre
Alexis Fonseca, Researcher at Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre
Moderator: Gun Rudquist, Head of Policy at Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre
Practical information
The seminar will take place on Wednesday, 28 January 2026 from 08:30 to 09:15, at the Scandic Klara hotel on Slöjdgatan 7 in Stockholm. A vegetarian breakfast will be served from 8:00.
Physical participation requires registration.
The seminar will also be livestreamed. A recording can be watched afterwards. No registration is needed to watch the livestream.
Follow the livestream of Microbes in the sea – more important than we think
About Baltic Breakfast
Baltic Breakfast is a series of short breakfast seminars/webinars organised by Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre. Their aim is to present the latest knowledge about issues of central importance to the Baltic Sea environment. The webinars are addressed to people in different sectors working for a sustainable development in the Baltic Sea region and everyone interested in environmental issues of the Baltic Sea.
Most Baltic Breakfasts are held in Swedish, but sometimes they are targeted at an international audience and held in English.
Get invitations to upcoming webinars or subscribe to our monthly newsletters
Last updated: 2026-01-20
Source: Stockholm University Baltic Sea Centre