BLIC steps onto the scene. All spotlights directed towards plankton.
The performers take the stage
The performers take the stage: They’re all here. The copepods are adjusting the mascara on their single eye, the Chaetoceros are lining up in single file, Noctiluca is getting ready to dazzle under the spotlight, and Alexandrium is preparing to bring the house down with its paralyzing talent. These are the planktonic species that will tread the boards of Océanolab this year.
As directors, Philippe, Laura, Maéva, Cécile, and Kenza ensure that every prop is in its place and every role is played to perfection. The set is built, the script is locked in — science leaves no room for improvisation. Barring any dramatic twist, we should learn more this year about how our coastal ecosystems function, with plankton in the starring role.
Of course, the cast would not be complete without the scientific guides of Océanopolis, who will accompany the audience throughout this nine-month scientific performance. And who knows — visitors might just find themselves stepping into the spotlight at Océanolab…
But that, we’ll let you discover by yourself on site.
An 8-act experiment
This year, it’s not just one but eight experiments that will take place at Océanolab over the course of the year.
Different populations of phytoplankton will be “cast” into aquariums, either in the presence or absence of their predators. The scientists will study the growth of these populations, which will help them better understand how biodiversity loss impacts the functioning of ecosystems.
The rise in concentration of these algae — also known as a bloom — takes about three weeks to reach its grand crescendo. Once the peak is reached and the water has taken on its full color, the “scene” comes to a close. The scientists then simply collect their samples and prepare for the next “act.”
Over the year, eight experiments are expected to unfold. Visitors will therefore witness different “scenes” of the performance depending on the timing of their visit.
On stage!
On April 5th, the three knocks will sound and the curtain will rise at Océanolab, unveiling a brand-new stage design and fresh cast members centered around plankton. The performances will run until November 30th on Wednesdays, weekends, public holidays, and during school vacations.
Let’s just hope BLIC will not draw a blank…