Short Wave The Algae That Thrive in Arctic Darkness
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Mar 26, 2025 
Clara Hoppe, a biogeochemist at the Alfred Wegener Institute, dives into the fascinating world of Arctic microalgae. She reveals how these tiny organisms defy expectations during the extended darkness of winter, managing to photosynthesize and thrive. Clara shares insights from her research expeditions in the Svalbard Archipelago, illustrating their remarkable resilience and survival strategies. The discussion sheds light on how these microorganisms adapt to extreme conditions, reshaping our understanding of the Arctic ecosystem.
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Svalbard Discovery
- Clara Hoppe challenged the traditional view of dormant microalgae.
- In 2015, in Svalbard, she found active microalgae with chlorophyll, ready to photosynthesize.
Arctic Sample Collection
- In 2020, during the Mosaic expedition, Clara Hoppe sampled microalgae in the Arctic.
- They retrieved samples from a hole near the ship and later from 'Ocean City' after the original hole was destroyed.
Early Growth
- Clara Hoppe found microalgae growing just weeks after the first sunrise.
- This discovery challenged previous assumptions about Arctic microalgae activity.