Once again, the project team actively participated in the activities organized by the Centre for Advanced Studies of Blanes (CEAB-CSIC) as part of Science Week, a European initiative held in November to bring science and technology closer to the public and encourage scientific vocations among young people.
This event stands out because institutions and research centers open their doors to the public for two weeks, allowing visitors to discover the latest scientific advances and ongoing research projects. At CEAB-CSIC, the activities took place on November 13, 14, and 15, with general public visits and special morning sessions for local secondary schools.
Exploring the Lakes of the Pyrenees
During the visits, students enjoyed a unique experience through the themed tour: “Conservation of High Mountain Lakes in the Pyrenees.” This tour allowed young participants to explore how these sensitive ecosystems function, understand the impacts of introduced species on native flora and fauna, and learn about the restoration efforts being carried out to preserve these habitats.
Participants also had the opportunity to see the equipment used in field sampling campaigns, examine macroinvertebrate samples under a microscope, and participate in sample analysis tasks in the laboratories.
The activity included visits to several CEAB-CSIC laboratories, highlighting:
- Clean Lab: An environmental DNA laboratory where genetic material is sequenced to identify species and build barcode libraries (barcoding). Students learned how identified taxonomic groups relate to species using advanced microscopy techniques.
- UHPLC Laboratory (Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography): This lab analyzes liposoluble pigments to study the seasonal dynamics of phytoplankton and characterize its communities. This technique is key to understanding the ecological processes of high mountain lakes.
An Experience to Inspire Future Scientists
These activities were designed to spark scientific curiosity and showcase how research is conducted in high mountain lakes, emphasizing the importance of their conservation. The active participation of students in various phases of the scientific process allowed them to experience firsthand how researchers work, fostering interest in science and nature.
