MARE brings science to future students at FCUL Open Day

On May 7, MARE was present at the 24th edition of the Open Day of CIÊNCIAS (FCUL), with a diverse range of activities aimed at secondary school students, teachers and the general public. This annual event aims to give visitors direct experience of the scientific research carried out at the Faculty, promoting dialogue with researchers and bringing young people closer to the various areas of knowledge. 

With several scientific demonstration stations, MARE presented multiple aspects of its research in the aquatic sciences, from algae biology and water quality to the detection of invasive species, innovative technologies for monitoring aquatic life and bio-inspired approaches.

One of the activities was fish telemetry, with a practical demonstration of how researchers track the movements of migratory species. Using radio transmitters and acoustic emitters, visitors were able to simulate the search for a hidden “fish”, understanding in practice how the signals emitted by the tagged animals are detected. Rita Almeida explained: “We try to show them what we do in the field: how we track fish, how we mark them, and what this technology is used for.” Filipa Silva exemplifies: “We can find out if marine protected areas are being effective, or understand the impacts of dams on migratory routes.”

Monitoring invasive fish was another highlight. From the researchers of the Biological Invasions Group, visitors learned about the main ways of monitoring, sampling and detecting invasive fish in rivers and reservoirs, such as electrofishing, sampling nets, environmental DNA analysis and even bioacoustics. The activity included a visit to an electric fishing boat and the observation of field equipment and some invasive fish preserved in alcohol, arousing the students' curiosity. Through the “Who's who of invasives” game, visitors were also able to learn about some of the 240 species of fish, invertebrates and non-native algae found in Portuguese estuaries and coastal areas, as well as their geographical origin, how they arrived in our country and the impacts they have on our ecosystems.

The activity “Algae and Man” took participants under the microscope to observe microalgae and learn about the work of the ALISU Biobank. The space highlighted the ecological and biotechnological importance of algae, with examples of applications in aquaculture, food and cosmetics. Helena David shared: “It's important to show that algae are not just ‘sea plants’. Some are superfoods, others produce compounds used in the pharmaceutical industry, and others are cultivated by local communities in developing countries and are an essential source of protein.”

The Nature Inspired Innovation Workshop, developed by researcher and teacher Romana Santos, explored how biomimicry can generate solutions to problems in society. Using educational games and digital resources, participants were challenged to think about how science can be creative and interdisciplinary. The teachers present highlighted the usefulness of the materials and resources shared, which can now be used in the classroom.