Viking introduced a big development in marine analysis and exploration: real-time environmental DNA (eDNA) sequencing of phytoplankton out there 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 by 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 sophisticated scientific atmosphere. Visiting scientists collaborating within the Genomics at Sea Program (GASP) can now monitor the environmental influence on phytoplankton with no need 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 clear on this growth. It builds upon their present position in Fjord Phyto, a NASA-funded Scripps program the place friends take part in analysis by sampling polar phytoplankton for genetic evaluation.
Advantages of Onboard eDNA Sequencing
- Sooner Outcomes: Environmental influence on phytoplankton might 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 Crew and Famend Companions
Viking has established a world-leading scientific enrichment atmosphere in expedition cruising by partnerships with esteemed establishments. Every expedition includes a multidisciplinary 36-person staff, together with visiting researchers who information friends by analysis, lead shore excursions, and ship lectures.
- Scripps Establishment of Oceanography: Works to grasp environmental challenges.
- J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI): Advances the science of genomics to grasp the organic world.
Significance of Phytoplankton Analysis
- Phytoplankton absorbs 40% of the world’s carbon and gives 50% of its atmospheric oxygen, performing because the “planet’s lungs.”
- Understanding these organisms is essential for comprehending the Earth’s carbon cycle, notably in distant areas.
Viking’s Extra Scientific Companions
- College of Cambridge’s Scott Polar Analysis Institute (SPRI): Offers 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 techniques.
- 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 in depth viewing areas for optimum surroundings statement. Viking prioritizes environmental duty with options like energy-efficient vessels and a dedication to growing zero-emission know-how 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’ Alternative Awards.
