Bite size: Mariner, Marine Biology and the Anthropocene

About us

The Anthropocene is a newly proposed geological period. It started with the first significant, demonstrable, human impact on our planets geology and ecosystems. It is a period dominated by anthropogenic climate change. In this talk the colossal physical and chemical changes in the Anthropocene Ocean - warming, reduced oxygen and increasing acidity, and their effects on marine life, will be explored. Considering possible futures for marine life, particularly how they will impact on us, and the parallels that might be drawn with Coleridge's poem, should make for an interesting perspective on this journey through the Anthropocene we now find ourselves in.

Professor John Spicer is a marine zoologist at the University's Marine Institute with expertise in ecophysiology. From investigating giganticism in Antarctic crustaceans to how shrimps survive in low oxygen, he has delved into the innermost workings of marine animals in a quest to understand how they work and evolve in the wild, and how they adapt to a world that humans have altered through climate change.

Sparked from childhood interests, John's research spans more than 20 years and has resulted in over 100 research papers, multiple academic books, writing for popular culture, and advising national and international policymakers.

*Please note* Tickets for this event are limited, we recommend booking in advance to guarantee your space.