Viking introduced a big development in marine analysis and exploration: real-time environmental DNA (eDNA) sequencing of phytoplankton accessible on their expedition fleet. This achievement positions Viking as the primary journey firm to supply such capabilities onboard its vessels.
Collaboration for Scientific Discovery
This milestone got here via partnerships with esteemed scientific establishments: UC San Diego’s Scripps Establishment of Oceanography (Scripps) and J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI). Viking repurposed the PCR lab on the Viking Octantis, remodeling it into a complicated scientific setting. Visiting scientists collaborating within the Genomics at Sea Program (GASP) can now monitor the environmental impression on phytoplankton without having to move samples to distant shore amenities.
Viking’s Dedication to Exploration and Analysis
Viking’s dedication to providing significant scientific discovery on each expedition voyage is obvious on this growth. It builds upon their current position in Fjord Phyto, a NASA-funded Scripps program the place company take part in analysis by sampling polar phytoplankton for genetic evaluation.
Advantages of Onboard eDNA Sequencing
- Sooner Outcomes: Environmental impression on phytoplankton will be monitored in real-time, eliminating the necessity for prolonged shoreside evaluation.
- Deeper Insights: Scientists acquire a extra complete understanding of the genetic variety of plankton, essential for assessing the ocean’s response to local weather change and different stressors.
Viking Expedition Workforce and Famend Companions
Viking has established a world-leading scientific enrichment setting in expedition cruising via partnerships with esteemed establishments. Every expedition contains a multidisciplinary 36-person group, together with visiting researchers who information company via analysis, lead shore excursions, and ship lectures.
- Scripps Establishment of Oceanography: Works to know environmental challenges.
- J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI): Advances the science of genomics to know the organic world.
Significance of Phytoplankton Analysis
- Phytoplankton absorbs 40% of the world’s carbon and offers 50% of its atmospheric oxygen, appearing because the “planet’s lungs.”
- Understanding these organisms is essential for comprehending the Earth’s carbon cycle, significantly in distant areas.
Viking’s Further Scientific Companions
- College of Cambridge’s Scott Polar Analysis Institute (SPRI): Gives experience and analysis management.
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Conducts analysis and presents visitor interplay with ornithologists.
- Nationwide Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Nice Lakes Environmental Analysis Laboratory (GLERL): Conducts analysis on Nice Lakes ecosystems.
- Norwegian Institute of Water Analysis (NIVA): Engages in analysis on water-related points.
- Oceanites: An American non-profit main Antarctic penguin monitoring.
- IUCN Species Survival Fee Species Monitoring Specialist Group: Collaborates on growing marine biodiversity monitoring methods.
- Norwegian Polar Institute: Permits Viking’s expedition actions in Antarctica.
About Viking Expeditions
Viking presents destination-focused expeditions in Antarctica, the Arctic, and North America’s Nice Lakes. Their fleet consists of the Polar Class Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, particularly designed for exploration with options like intensive viewing areas for optimum surroundings statement. Viking prioritizes environmental duty with options like energy-efficient vessels and a dedication to growing zero-emission expertise for future ships. Their concentrate on creating experiences for “The Pondering Individual” has been acknowledged by Condé Nast Traveler, rating #1 for Expeditions, Rivers, and Oceans of their 2023 Readers’ Selection Awards.