Global Alliance of Continuous Plankton Recorder Surveys

The Global Alliance of Continuous Plankton Recorder Surveys (GACS) was founded in 2011 and brings together the expertise of plankton specialists, scientists, technicians and administrators from laboratories around the world. This international collaboration involves the CPR Survey and twelve other regional CPR Surveys from across the globe and provides a comprehensive understanding of changes in the marine environment. 

Working together and pooling our data and resources is essential in order to understand the effects of environmental changes on plankton biodiversity at a global level. Numerous regional monitoring and observational programmes have been established in the past, but have lacked a holistic perspective on plankton biodiversity in response to global events such as climate warming and ocean acidification. Using CPR data, GACS is working towards that global perspective.

At present, there are large areas of the world’s oceans, notably the sub-tropical and tropical regions of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans where there are no regular CPR surveys or plankton monitoring in general. GACS aims to improve coverage in these regions and offers support in facilitating the establishment of new surveys.

The Chair of GACS is Dr Clare Ostle (CPR Survey, UK). Materials produced by GACS include Report Cards, Global Marine Ecological Status Report, and capacity training to facilitate new surveys.  Secondment of CPR scientists between surveys ensures good practice and common standards are followed and help foster good working relationships.

Current GACS Partners