Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026

Bioindication Testing of Stream Environment Suitability for Young Freshwater Pearl Mussels Using In Situ Exposure Methods
Published on: September 5, 2018
Biotope map of the German Baltic Sea
Kerstin S Schiele1, Alexander Darr1, Michael L Zettler1
1Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestr.15, 18119 Warnemünde, Germany.
Abstract:
Full-coverage maps on the distribution of marine biotopes are a necessary basis for Nature Conservation and Marine Spatial Planning. Yet biotope maps do not exist in many regions. We are generating the first full-coverage biotope map for the German Baltic Sea according to the HELCOM Underwater biotope and habitat classification system (HUB). Species distribution modelling is applied to create full-coverage spatial information of biological features. The results of biomass modelling of twelve target taxa and presence/absence modelling of three target taxa enabled the identification of biological levels up to HUB level 6. Environmental data on bathymetry, light penetration depth and substrate are used to identify habitat levels. HUB biotope levels were combined with HUB habitat levels to create a biotope map. Altogether, 68 HUB biotopes are identified in the German Baltic Sea. The new biotope map combining substrate characteristics and biological communities will facilitate marine management in the area.
Related Concept Videos
Microbial Mats
Deep Sea Microbial Ecology
Marine Microbial Ecology
Freshwater Microbial Ecology
Diversity of Protists III
Green Algae

