Research experience and interests:

Ecophysiological aspects of phytoplankton in Norwegian marine waters. The investigations cover fjord waters; Korsfjorden, Raunefjorden, Lindåspollene, Samnangerfjorden, Boknafjorden, Lysefjorden and Oslofjorden, coastal waters; Western, Southern and Eastern Norway, and oceanic waters; the Norwegian Sea, Barents Sea and the Greenland Sea. Special emphasis has been put on the regulation mechanisms of spatial and temporal distribution of phytoplankton biomass and primary production. Among the physical factors being studied are light, wind, hydrography – including water column stability, and water circulation. Besides this, physiological and behavioural effects of light (including UV) and other environmental factors on microalgae has been investigated. Among these are cell motility (studied in a specially designed artificial water column), bio-optical aspects of microalgae in general and photosynthetic response.

 

Within the field of light and phytoplankton interactions I cooperate with colleges (Øyvind Frette, Børge Hamre and Jakob Stamnes) from the “Optics and atomic physics” group, of which I am an associated member, at the Department of Physics and Technology, UoB. Our common research activities have a long time horizon and it is conducted in collaboration with several national and international scientific groups and institutions. In order to enhance the quality of our work and to enable us to investigate new aspects of light and phytoplankton interactions, we have established a marine bio-optical laboratory facility, with funding from the Norwegian Research Councils’ Program for “Advanced equipment”. This has resulted in several “Light and Life” projects. These are: "Light and Life in Norwegian Waters" (LLNW), "Light and Life in Icy Arctic Waters", "Light and Life in African environment" and “Light and Life in Norwegian Waters: Physics/Biology Based Approach to Satellite Monitoring of Primary Production and Algal Blooms”. Many Master and Ph.D students have been involved in the projects.

 

Field investigations

In Norwegian fjords the observed seasonal variations in phytoplankton biomass, species composition, primary production and vertical distribution are due to a complex interaction between physical, chemical and biological factors. We have seen that the wind regulated exchange processes between coastal and fjord water, together with light regime, are overall regulating factors. During periods of northerly winds along the coast of Western Norway, displacements of coastal waters away from the coast are accompanied by upwelling of nutrient rich deeper water into the euphotic zone. An opposite circulation pattern is seen during periods of southerly winds. These advective processes are also essential for questions concerning the autochthonous-allochthonous origin of the species. Common for the investigated fjords are strong stratifications of the water masses throughout extended periods of the growth season, which enable the deeper situated phytoplankton species to adapt to low light intensities. During time, such a strategy could result in deep maximum layers of chlorophyll a.  It is has also been found that persistent stratification of the water masses combined with stable light conditions could lead to diel rhythms in photosynthetic activity of summer phytoplankton. As a bloom proceeds and nutrients are being exhausted, grazing by micro- and macrozooplankton may become an important regulating factor phytoplankton growth. During calm weather conditions, nutrient limitation, nitrogen or phosphorus, may persist for extended periods in Norwegian fjords. Continued growth of phytoplankton in the surface layer above the pycnocline thus relies on regenerated nutrients. Both bacterio- and virioplankton have been found to be important in this context. Besides this, virioplankton may act as an internal driving force in spring bloom successions.

 

To better understand the role of light regime on growth of phytoplankton, information on the spatial and temporal variations of the inherent optical properties (absorption and scattering) of coastal and fjord waters (“case II water”) have been gained.   The transmission of UV radiation and the factors controlling it are important in this context. Therefore the role of coloured dissolved organic material (CDOM) has been thoroughly investigated. Possible effects of UV radiation on vertical distribution of phytoplankton and primary production have been investigated both in case I (ocean water) and case II waters. It was found that the maximum and mean potential for inhibition of primary production at a depth of 5 m were 11 and 3 % in the Greenland and Norwegian Seas, 3.2 and 0.9 % in coastal waters of south-western Norway, and 0.5 and 0.1 % in the Samnangerfjord.

 

Development of new methods

An experimental water column equipped with an optical detection system for the study of fine scale vertical displacement of microalgae in stratified waters has been constructed. With this system migratory patterns and swimming speeds of the algae can be deduced. An improved technique for measurements of the volume scattering function (VSF) of marine particles has also been developed. This equipment enables us to study how microalgae and other particles influence the propagation of light in the ocean. A new infrared laser equipped with confocal microscopy, including “Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging” (FLIM), has now being installed in our lab, which implies new opportunities to study basic photosynthetic processes and anatomical changes in microalgal cells as responses to light stress.

 

 

Model application

By using a spectral radiative transfer model combined with a parameterization of the inhibition of marine photosynthesis by ultraviolet radiation, it has been found that ozone depletion in polar regions during periods of sufficiently low solar elevations, compromising both open and ice-covered waters, could lead to increased photosynthesis at all depths. The reason for this is that reduced ozone concentrations not only result in enhanced levels of UV radiation but also in photosynthetic utilizable radiation (PUR), which could otherwise be limiting to primary production during periods of normal ozone concentrations.

 

Aquaculture related research

The main aspect of this research is to investigate if it is possible to increase the primary production within a fjord by artificial upwelling of deeper nutrient rich water during the summer season, when growth of phytoplankton is otherwise nutrient limited. This would be beneficial for the aquaculture industry, both concerning mussel and fish farming. We have found that by using a submerged freshwater discharge to bring about an upwelling, the algal production can be increased by a factor of 3-4, and at the same time reduce the occurrence of toxic algal flagellates. This work is in collaboration with the Jan Aure, Tore Strohmeier and Øivind Strand at the Institute of Marine Research (IMR), Bergen.

 

 

 

 

Pedagogical competence and experience

Pedagogical competence - I had my basic pedagogical education during 1992 by participating in the course “Developmental Program in University Pedagogics”. My teaching experience at university level goes back to 1985.

 

Teaching responsibilities at UoB and UoO - Introductory courses in Biology (120 students): - BIO 100 Biology  - (45 ECTS credits) 1993 – 1999, and - BIO 103 Botany – (15 ECTS credits) 2000 -2002, in both cases responsible for both laboratory course and lectures comprising “Physiology and anatomy of higher plants”, equivalent to 5 ECTS credits, - BIO 113 Microbiology – (10 ECTS credits), partly responsible for lectures 2003 - 2004 and for laboratory course from 2003, BIO 114 Physiology – (10 ECTS credits), partly responsible for lectures and laboratory course 2003 – 2004. Specialisation courses in Marine biology and Microbiology, chronologically from 1985 until 2006: - B 290 Algal systematics and ecology  - (15 ECTS credits), including laboratory course, partly responsible, - B 390 Marine ecological processes – (3 ECTS credits), partly responsible, - BM 202, UoO Marine ecological methods – (15 ECTS credits), including laboratory course, partly responsible, - BM 223 Algal physiology I – (15 ECTS credits), including laboratory course, partly responsible, - BM 224 Algal physiology II – (15 ECTS credits), including laboratory course, total responsible, - BFM 360 Marine pollution biology – (5 ECTS credits), partly responsible, - BM 222 Experimental algal physiology – (10 ECTS credits), including laboratory course, partly responsible, - BM 221 Microbial ecology II – (15 ECTS credits), including laboratory course, partly responsible, - MAR 314 Experimental marine microbiology – (5 ECTS credits), partly responsible - BM 321/MIK 314 Light and Microalgae in marine ecosystems – (5 ECTS credits), total responsible, - MIK 201 Eucaryote microbiology – (10 ECTS credits), including laboratory course, partly responsible. For several of the taught courses listed above, I was also responsible for editing the laboratory manual. In the case of BM 224 and BM 321/MIK 314, I was responsible for both the initiation and planning of the courses. I have also been responsible for the direction of a number of Master students at our Department and at the Department of Physics and Technology.

 

Poster

• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Tessin, Elinor; Sandven, Håkon Johan et al. (2024). Optical properties of Norwegian fjords: Glacial meltwater and coccolithophore blooms. (external link)
• Steinrücken, Pia; Prestegard, Siv Kristin; de Vree, Jeroen Hendrik et al. (2017). Different outdoor performance of three Phaeodactylum tricornutum strains under western Norwegian climate conditions. (external link)
• Steinrücken, Pia; Erga, Svein Rune; Kvamme, Hege et al. (2017). Bioprospecting North Atlantic microalgae with fast growth and high EPA/DHA content. (external link)
• Ciren, Nima; Frette, Øyvind; Hamre, Børge et al. (2016). Analysis and parameterization of absorption properties of northern Norwegian coastal water. (external link)
• Steinrücken, Pia; Prestegard, Siv Kristin; Kleivdal, Hans Torstein et al. (2015). Screening concept to prospect Nordic microalgae for polyunsaturated fatty acids. (external link)
• Prestegard, Siv Kristin; Steinsbu, Bjørn Olav; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2015). Bergen Marine Biobank, forming a platform for marine bioprospecting. (external link)
• Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Erga, Svein Rune; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2010). Measurement of instantaneous phytoplankton photosynthetic parameters in Lake Victoria (Uganda) using a fluorescence technique. (external link)
• Svensen, Øyvind; Frette, Øyvind; Kildemo, Morten et al. (2010). Mueller matrix measurements of algae with different shape and size distributions. (external link)
• Svensen, Øyvind; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune (2007). Measurements of the effect of cell size and cell wall on the scattering properties of micro algae. (external link)
• Hamre, Børge; Stamnes, Jakob J.; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2006). A THREE-STATE MODEL FOR AQUATIC PHOTOSYNTHESIS. (external link)
• Svensen, Øyvind; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune (2006). Measurement of inherent optical properties. (external link)
• Prestegard, S; Hatfield, Kimberley Joanne; Knutsen, G. et al. (2005). Searching cyanobacteria and microalgae from Norwegian waters for drug candidates. (external link)
• Olseng, Christine; Aarø, Lars; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2005). Vertical migration, growth, genetics and toxicity among different strains of Norwegian Protoceratium reticulatum (Dinophyceae). (external link)
• Hamre, Børge; Frette, Øyvind; Stamnes, Jakob J. et al. (2004). May stratospheric ozone depletion lead to enhanced aquatic primary production in the polar regions?. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Frette, Øyvind; Hamre, Børge et al. (2004). Variability in UV transmission in Norwegian Polar, Coastal- and Fjord waters: Controlling factors. (external link)
• Larsen, Aud; Flaten, Gro Anita Fonnes; Thyrhaug, Runar et al. (2003). Dynamics and succession during the spring bloom in the Norwegian coastal current, with emphasis on the smallest participants. (external link)
• Knutsen, Gjert; Hatfield, Kimberley; Uldahl, Svein Atle et al. (2003). Screening for and isolation of medically active substances from marine cyanobacteria and microalgae from Norwegian waters. (external link)
• Knutsen, Gjert; Prestegard, Siv Kristin Stensund; Aursland, Kjetil et al. (2002). Bioactive substances from marine cyanobacteria and microalgae: From sea to screen. (external link)
• Larsen, Aud; Flaten, Gro Anita Fonnes; Thyrhaug, Runar et al. (2001). Dynamics and succession during the spring bloom in Norwegian coastal current, with emphasis on the smallest participants. (external link)
• Aure, Jan; Erga, Svein Rune; Asplin, Lars et al. (2000). FJORDCULT - Increased biological production in fjords by artificial uppwelling. (external link)
• Kahnert, Michael; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2000). Investigating the optical properties of algae as a function of size, shape and refractive index. (external link)
• Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune; Stamnes, Jakob J. (2000). Optical properties of a Norwegian fjord. (external link)
• Lotsberg, Jon Kåre; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (1999). Laboratory measurements of angular distribution og light scattered from marine particles. (external link)

Academic article

• Erga, Svein Rune; Heldal, Mikal; Prestegard, Siv Kristin et al. (2022). The importance of microbiota and terrestrial inflows in controlling seston C:N:P:O:Si:Ca:Mn:Mg:Fe:K:Na:Cl:S:Cu:Zn stoichiometry of a deep coastal fjord. (external link)
• Prabavathy, Najarajan; Balasundaraprabhu, Rangasamy; Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin et al. (2020). Enhanced photostability of anthocyanin dye for increased efficiency in natural Dye sensitized solar cells. (external link)
• Nima, Ciren; Frette, Øyvind; Hamre, Børge et al. (2019). CDOM Absorption Properties of Natural Water Bodies along Extreme Environmental Gradients. (external link)
• Steinrücken, Pia; Prestegard, Siv Kristin; de Vree, Jeroen Hendrik et al. (2018). Comparing EPA production and fatty acid profiles of three Phaeodactylum tricornutum strains under western Norwegian climate conditions. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Erga, Svein Rune; Hamre, Børge et al. (2018). Testing Fluorescence Lifetime Standards using Two-Photon Excitation and Time-Domain Instrumentation: Fluorescein, Quinine Sulfate and Green Fluorescent Protein. (external link)
• Paulino, Ana; Larsen, Aud; Bratbak, Gunnar et al. (2018). Seasonal and annual variability in the phytoplankton community of the Raunefjord, west coast of Norway from 2001-2006. (external link)
• Steinrücken, Pia; Mjøs, Svein Are; Prestegard, Siv Kristin et al. (2018). Enhancing EPA Content in an Arctic Diatom: A Factorial Design Study to Evaluate Interactive Effects of Growth Factors. (external link)
• Marken, Endre; Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Lotsberg, Jon Kåre et al. (2017). Measurement and modeling of volume scattering functions for phytoplankton from Norwegian coastal waters. (external link)
• Steinrücken, Pia; Erga, Svein Rune; Mjøs, Svein Are et al. (2017). Bioprospecting North Atlantic microalgae with fast growth and high polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content for microalgae-based technologies. (external link)
• Storesund, Julia Endresen; Sandaa, Ruth-Anne; Thingstad, T. Frede et al. (2017). Linking bacterial community structure to advection and environmental impact along a coast-fjord gradient of the Sognefjord, western Norway. (external link)
• Pree, Bernadette; Larsen, Aud; Egge, Jorun Karin et al. (2017). Dampened copepod-mediated trophic cascades in a microzooplankton-dominated microbial food web: A mesocosm study. (external link)
• Nima, Ciren; Hamre, Børge; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2017). Impact of Chromophoric dissolved organic matter on light absorption in lake water on the Tibetan Plateau, China. (external link)
• Nima, Ciren; Frette, Øyvind; Hamre, Børge et al. (2017). Analysis and parameterization of absorption properties of northern Norwegian coastal water. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Haugen, Stig Bjarte; Bratbak, Gunnar et al. (2017). Seasonal variations in C:N:Si:Ca:P:Mg:S:K:Fe relationships of seston from Norwegian coastal water: Impact of extreme offshore forcing during winter-spring 2010. (external link)
• Nima, Ciren; Frette, Øyvind; Hamre, Børge et al. (2017). Comparison of absorption properties of colored dissolved organic matter in six different case 2 water bodies. (external link)
• Omar, Abdirahman; Skjelvan, Ingunn; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2016). Aragonite saturation states and pH in western Norwegian fjords: Seasonal cycles and controlling factors, 2005-2009. (external link)
• Nima, Ciren; Frette, Øyvind; Hamre, Børge et al. (2016). Absorption properties of high-latitude Norwegian coastal water: The impact of CDOM and particulate matter. (external link)
• Prestegard, Siv Kristin; Erga, Svein Rune; Steinrücken, Pia et al. (2016). Specific metabolites in a Phaeodactylum tricornutum strain isolated from Western Norwegian fjord water. (external link)
• Cirennima, X; Hamre, Børge; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2015). Impact of particulate and dissolved material on light absorption properties in a High-Altitude Lake in Tibet, China. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Lie, Geir Christian; Aarø, Lars Harald et al. (2015). Migratory behaviour of Skeletonema grethae (Bacillariophyceae) in stratified waters. (external link)
• Strohmeier, Tore; Strand, Øivind; Alunno-Bruscia, Marianne et al. (2015). Response of Mytilus edulis to enhanced phytoplankton availability by controlled upwelling in an oligotrophic fjord. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Hamre, Børge; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2015). Chlorophyll a fluorescence lifetime reveals reversible UV-induced photosynthetic activity in the green algae Tetraselmis. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Olseng, Christine Daae; Aarø, Lars Harald (2015). Growth and diel vertical migration patterns of the toxic dinoflagellate Protoceratium reticulatum in a water column with salinity stratification: the role of bioconvection and light. (external link)
• Storesund, Julia Endresen; Erga, Svein Rune; Ray, Jessica Louise et al. (2015). Top-down and bottom-up control on bacterial diversity in a western Norwegian deep-silled fjord. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Hamre, Børge et al. (2014). Environmental control of phytoplankton distribution and photosynthetic performance at the Jan Mayen Front in the Norwegian Sea. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Hamre, Børge et al. (2014). Nutrients and phytoplankton biomass distribution and activity at the Barents Sea Polar Front during summer near Hopen and Storbanken. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Erga, Svein Rune; Hamre, Børge et al. (2014). Testing fluorescence lifetime standards using two-photon excitation and time-domain instrumentation: Rhodamine B, coumarin 6 and lucifer yellow. (external link)
• Vike, Siri; Oelckers, Karin; Duesund, Henrik et al. (2014). Infectious Salmon Anemia (ISA) virus: Infectivity in seawater under different physical conditions. (external link)
• Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Erga, Svein Rune; Hamre, Børge et al. (2013). Light conditions and photosynthetic efficiency of phytoplankton in Murchison Bay, Lake Victoria, Uganda. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2012). Dynamics of phytoplankton distribution and photosynthetic capacity in a western Norwegian fjord during coastal upwelling: Effects on optical properties. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Svensen, Øyvind; Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi et al. (2012). Chlorophyll a and NADPH fluorescence lifetimes in the microalgae haematococcus pluvialis (Chlorophyceae) under normal and astaxanthin-accumulating conditions. (external link)
• Svensen, Øyvind; Stamnes, Jakob J.; Kildemo, Morten et al. (2011). Mueller matrix measurements of algae with different shape and size distributions. (external link)
• Magnesen, Thorolf; Erga, Svein Rune; Christophersen, Gyda (2010). Growth of scallop spat in a raceway nursery during autumn conditions in western Norwegian waters. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Lie, Geir Christian; Aarø, Lars Harald et al. (2010). Fine scale vertical displacement of Phaeodactylum tricornutum (Bacillariophyceae) in stratified waters: Influence of halocline and day length on buoyancy control. (external link)
• Hamre, Børge; Stamnes, Jakob J.; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2008). Could stratospheric ozone depletion lead to enhanced aquatic primary production in the polar regions?. (external link)
• Aure, Jan; Strand, Øivind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2007). Primary production enhancement by artificial upwelling in a western Norwegian fjord. (external link)
• Svensen, Øyvind; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune (2007). Scattering properties of microalgae: the effect of cell size and cell wall. (external link)
• Lotsberg, Jon Kåre; Marken, Endre; Stamnes, Jakob J. et al. (2007). Laboratory measurements of light scattering from marine particles. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Aursland, Kjetil; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2005). UV transmission in Norwegian marine waters: controlling factors and possible effects on primary production and vertical distribution of phytoplankton. (external link)
• Larsen, Aud; Flaten, Gro Anita Fonnes; Sandaa, Ruth-Anne et al. (2004). Spring phytoplankton bloom dynamics in Norwegian coastal waters: Microbial community succession and diversity. (external link)
• Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune; Hamre, Børge et al. (2004). Seasonal variability in inherent optical properties in a western Norwegian fjord. (external link)
• Larsen, Aud; Flaten, Gro Anita Fonnes; Sandaa, Ruth-Anne et al. (2004). Spring phytoplankton bloom dynamics in Norwegian coastal waters: Microbial community succession and diversity. (external link)
• Kjeldstad, Berit; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2003). UV (280 to 400 nm) optical properties in a Norwegian fjord system and an intercomparison of underwater radiometers. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Dybwad, Maren; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2003). New aspects of migratory behavior of phytoplankton in stratified waters: Effects of halocline strength and light on Tetraselmis sp. (Prasinophyceae) in an artificial water column. (external link)
• Hamre, Børge; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2003). Parameterisation and analysis of the optical absorption and scattering coefficients in a Western Norwegian fjord - A case II water study. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune (1994). Environmental controls of the dynamics of harmful algal blooms in Norwegian waters, with contributions from the research programme "Harmful algae blooms". (external link)
• Fyllingen, Inger; Erga, Svein Rune (1991). Kartlegging av potensielle områder for skadelige planktonalger i norske farvann del 1: kyst og hav. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Skjoldal, Hein Rune (1990). Diel variations in photosynthetic activity of summer phytoplankton in Lindåspollene, western Norway. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune (1989). Ecological studies on the phytoplankton of Boknafjorden, western Norway. 1. the effect of water exchange processes and environmental factors on temporal and verical variability of biomass. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune (1989). Ecological studies on the phytoplankton of Boknafjorden, western Norway. II. Environmental control of photosynthesis. (external link)
• Paasche, E.; Erga, Svein Rune (1988). Phosphorus and nitrogen limitation of phytoplankton in the inner Oslofjord (Norway). (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Heimdal, Berit Riddervold (1984). Ecological studies on the phytoplankton of Korsfjorden, western Norway. The dynamics of a spring bloom seen in relation to hydrographical conditions and light regime. (external link)

Academic lecture

• De Lange, Simon; Skjelvan, Ingunn; Lauvset, Siv Kari et al. (2021). Surface ocean CO2 in the northern North Sea - temporal and spatial variability. (external link)
• De Lange, Simon; Skjelvan, Ingunn; Lauvset, Siv Kari et al. (2021). Temporal and spatial variability of CO2 in the northern North Sea. (external link)
• Kleinegris, Dorinde; Böpple, Hanna; Steinrücken, Pia et al. (2019). The National Algaepilot Mongstad: production of microalgae for food and feed. (external link)
• Steinrücken, Pia; Prestegard, Siv Kristin; Kleivdal, Hans Torstein et al. (2016). Bioprospecting for high PUFA content in Northern marine microalgae. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Hamre, Børge; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2015). Fluorescence Lifetime Measurement and Imaging of chlorophyll a in UV-stressed Microalgae Tetraselmis. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Hamre, Børge; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2015). Fluorescence Lifetime Measurement and Imaging of chlorophyll a in UV-stressed Microalgae Tetraselmis. (external link)
• Chen, Yi-Chun; Cirennima, X; Hamre, Børge et al. (2015). Absorption spectra for water samples from Lake Namtso (Tibet), Bohai sea (China), and the coast off Northern Norway. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Erga, Svein Rune; Hamre, Børge et al. (2014). Fluorescence lifetime of chlorophyll a reveals reversible photo-protection mechanism in the green algae Tetraselmis under UV-stressed conditions. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Erga, Svein Rune; Hamre, Børge et al. (2014). Fluorescence lifetime of chlorophyll a reveals reversible photo-protection mechanism in the green algae Tetraselmis under UV-stressed conditions. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Frette, Øyvind; Hamre, Børge et al. (2013). Improved growth conditions for phytoplankton during summer in a western Norwgian fjord by forced upwelling of nutrient rich deep water. (external link)
• Svensen, Øyvind; Kildemo, Morten; Sandvik Aas, Lars Martin et al. (2012). Mueller matrix measurements of algae with different shape and size distributions. (external link)
• Svensen, Øyvind; Frette, Øyvind; Kildemo, Morten et al. (2009). Mueller Matrix measurements of algae with different shape and size distributions. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune (2009). In Vivo fluoresence Lifetime Measurements of Chlorophyll and NADPH in the Green Algae Haematococcus Pluvialis. (external link)
• Christophersen, Gyda; Andersen, Sissel; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2009). The challenge of reducing the production time of juvenile scallops (Pecten maximus) intended for sea ranching. (external link)
• Christophersen, Gyda; Erga, Svein Rune; Magnesen, Thorolf (2009). Production of Pecten maximus L. in land-based nursery during autumn season. (external link)
• Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2008). Bio-optical technique for estimation of primary productivity from chlorophyll fluorescence measurements. (external link)
• Hamre, Børge; Stamnes, Jakob J.; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2008). Aquatic photosynthesis described by a tree-state model. (external link)
• Lotsberg, Jon Kåre; Marken, Endre; Stamnes, Jakob J. et al. (2004). Laboratory measurements of light scattering from marine particles. (external link)
• Marken, Endre; Hamre, Børge; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2004). LLNW:Physics/Biology based approach to satellite monitoring of primary production and algae blooms. (external link)
• Hamre, Børge; Stamnes, Jakob J.; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2004). May stratospheric ozone depletion lead to enhanced primary production in the polar regions?. (external link)
• Marken, Endre; Hamre, Børge; Stamnes, Jakob J. et al. (2003). Bleking av pigmenter i alger og dens virkning på algenes optiske egenskaper. (external link)
• Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune; Stamnes, Jakob J. et al. (2000). Optical remote sensing of waters with vertical structure. (external link)
• Stamnes, Jakob J.; Erga, Svein Rune; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2000). Optical remote sensing of light and life in coastal waters. (external link)

Academic chapter/article/Conference paper

• Salvanes, Anne Gro Vea; Glenner, Henrik; Aksnes, Dag Lorents et al. (2018). Sampling gears and equipment. (external link)

Lecture

• Kleinegris, Dorinde; Böpple, Hanna; Steinrücken, Pia et al. (2018). The National Algaepilot Mongstad: production of microalgae for food and feed. (external link)

Doctoral dissertation

• Steinrücken, Pia; Erga, Svein Rune; Prestegard, Siv Kristin et al. (2018). High-value fatty acids from microalgae. Bioprospecting and outdoor cultivation at northern latitudes. (external link)
• Kristoffersen, Arne Skodvin; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2016). Fluorescence lifetime measurements and imaging of microalgae under normal and stress conditions. (external link)
• ssebiyonga, nicolausi; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune (2011). : Applications of Fluorescence measurements for estimation of algae photosynthesis. (external link)
• Ssebiyonga, Nicolausi; Frette, Øyvind; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2011). Applications of fluorescence measurements for estimation of algae photosynthesis. (external link)

Masters thesis

• Silgjerd, Ørjan; Hjertaker, Bjørn Tore; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (2017). Videreutvikling av instrumentering for studier av mikroalgers vertikalmigrasjon under ulike lysforhold. (external link)
• Fotland, Sindre; Hjertaker, Bjørn Tore; Frette, Øyvind et al. (2013). Instrumentering av eksperimentell vannkolonne for studier av mikroalgers vertikalforflytning. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Aarø, Lars H. (2006). Growth and vertical migration of protoceratium reticulatum(Dinophyceae). (external link)

Popular scientific article

• Knutsen, Gjert; Prestegard, Siv Kristin Stensund; Erga, Svein Rune (2003). Det grøne gullet. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune (1989). Resipientforholdenes innvirkning ved lokalisering av oppdrettsanlegg. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Golmen, Lars Gunder; Bjerknes, Vilhelm. (1988). Masseoppblomstring av skadelige alger. Mulige årsaker og sammenhenger. (external link)
• Paasche, Eystein; Erga, Svein Rune (1987). Næringssalter og planktonvekst i Oslofjorden. (external link)

Programme participation

• Erga, Svein Rune; Knutsen, Gjert (2003). Mikroalger fra havet; både mat og medisin. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune (2001). Fjorder som Matmaskiner. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune (2001). Norske fjorder skal dyrkes. (external link)

Interview

• Knutsen, Gjert; Prestegard, Siv Kristin Stensund; Erga, Svein Rune (2003). Dyrkar algar mot sjukdom. (external link)

Report

• Aure, Jan; Erga, Svein Rune; Asplin, Lars (2000). FJORDCULT: Økt biologisk produksjon i fjorder ved kunstig oppstrømning av kystvann. (external link)
• Bødtker, Gunhild; Erga, Svein Rune; Rey, Francisco (1996). Primærproduksjonsforholdene i Ytre Oslofjord. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune (1993). Administrativ sluttrapport for forskningsprogrammet "Skadelige alger". (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Fyllingen, Inger (1991). Kartlegging av potensielle områder for skadelige planktonalger i norske farvann. (external link)
• Sørensen, Kai; Faafeng, Bjørn; Erga, Svein Rune (1991). Fjernmåling av vannkvalitet.-Evaluering av anvendelsesområder for satellitt og flybårne sensordata for overvåking av vannkvalitet. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Oug, Eivind; Knutzen, Jon et al. (1990). Eutrofitilstand for norske fjorder og kystfarvann med tilgrensende områder. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Bjerkeng, Birger; Baalsrud, Kjell et al. (1990). En vurdering av N og P's rolle som regulerende faktor for planteplankton produksjon i svenske kystfarvann. (external link)
• Golmen, Lars Gunder; Bakke, Håvard; Erga, Svein Rune et al. (1990). Undersøkelse av egnethet for fiskeoppdrett ved Varaldsøy i Hardanger. (external link)
• Golmen, Lars Gunder; Erga, Svein Rune (1988). Vurdering av to oppdrettslokalitetar i Høydalsfjorden. (external link)
• Paasche, Eystein; Erga, Svein Rune; Brubak, Sissel Irene (1987). Nitrogen, fosfor og planktonvekst. En metodeundersøkelse i Oslofjorden 1986. (external link)
• Erga, Svein Rune; Sørensen, Kai (1982). Petrokjemianlegg på Kårstø. Primærproduksjon februar-november 1981. Planteplanktonets biomasse og produksjon sett i relasjon til beitepress, hydrografi, lys og næringssalter.. (external link)

Thesis at a second degree level

• Erga, Svein Rune (1996). Mutagenesis and characterization of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase expressed in <I>E. coli</I>: Modulation of structure and function based on computer analysis (cand. scient. avhandling i bioteknologi). (external link)

Popular scientific lecture

• Erga, Svein Rune (1993). Phytoplankton blooms - Reasons and consequences. (external link)

Abstract

• Heimdal, Berit R.; Erga, Svein Rune; Lømsland, Evy R. et al. (1979). Relative importance of different size fractions of phytoplankton in fjord waters near Bergen, western Norway. (external link)

See a complete overview of publications in Cristin.

Scientific papers published in international journals:

Erga, S.R. and Heimdal, B.R. 1984. Ecological studies on the phytoplankton of Korsfjorden, western Norway. The dynamics of a spring bloom seen in relation to hydrographical conditions and light regime. J. Plankton Res. 6: 67-90

Erga, S.R. 1989. Ecological studies on the phytoplankton of Boknafjorden, western Norway. I. The effect of water exchange processes and environmental factors on temporal and vertical variability of biomass. Sarsia 74: 161-176

Erga, S.R. 1989. Ecological studies on the phytoplankton of Boknafjorden, western Norway. II. Environmental control of photosynthesis. J. Plankton Res. 11: 785-812

Erga, S.R. and Skjoldal, H.R. 1990. Diel variations in photosyntheticactivity of summer phytoplankton in Lindåspollene, western Norway. Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. 65: 73-85

Erga, S.R., Omar, A.M., Singstad, I., Steinseide, E. 1999. An optical detection system for the study of fine-scale vertical displacement of microalgae in an artificial water column. J. Phycol. 35:425-432

Erga, S.R., Dybwad, M., Frette, Ø., Lotsberg, J.K., Aursland, K. 2003. New aspects on migratory behaviour of phytoplankton in stratified waters: Effects of halocline strength and light on Tetraselmis sp. (Prasinophyceae) in an artificial water column. Limnol. Oceanogr. 48: 1202-1213

Erga, S.R., Aursland, K., Frette, Ø., Hamre, B., Lotsberg, J.K., Stamnes, J.J., Aure, J., Rey, F., Stamnes, K. 2005. UV transmission in Norwegian waters: controlling factors and possible effects on primary production and vertical distribution of phytoplankton. Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. 305: 79-100

Paasche, E.,  Erga, S.R. 1988. Phosphorus and nitrogen limitation of phytoplankton in the inner Oslofjord (Norway). Sarsia 73: 229-243

Frette, Ø., Erga, S.R., Stamnes, J.J., Stamnes, K. 2001. Optical remote sensing of waters with vertical structure. Appl. Opt. 40:1478-1487

Hamre, B., Frette, Ø., Erga, S.R., Stamnes, J.J., Stamnes, K.  2003. Parameterisation and analysis of the optical absorption and scattering coefficients in a Western Norwegian fjord – A case II water study. Appl. Opt. 42:883-892

Kjeldstad, B., Frette, Ø., Erga, S.R., Browman, H.I., Kuhn. P., Davis, R., Miller, W., Stamnes, J.J. 2003. UV (280-400 nm) optical properties in a Norwegian fjord system and an intercomparison of underwater radiometers. Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. 256: 1-11

Larsen, A., Flaten, G.A.F., Sandaa, R.A., Castberg, T., Thyrhaug, R., Erga, S.R. Jaquet, S., Bratbak, G. 2004. Spring phytoplankton bloom in Norwegian coastal waters: Microbial community dynamics, succession and diversity. Limnol. Oceanogr. 49: 180-190

Frette, Ø., Erga, S.R., Hamre, B., Aure, J., Stamnes, J.J. 2004. Seasonal variability in inherent optical properties in a western Norwegian fjord. Sarsia 89: 276-291

Lotsberg, J.K., Marken, E., Stamnes, J.J., Erga, S.R., Aursland, K., Olseng, C.D. 2007. Laboratory measurements of light scattering from marine particles. Limnol. Oceanogr.: Methods 5: 34-40

Svensen, Ø., Frette, Ø, Erga, S.R. 2007. Scattering properties of microalgae: the effect of cell size and cell wall. Appl. Optics 46: 5762-5769

Aure, J., Strand, Ø., Erga, S.R., Strohmeier, T. 2007. Primary production enhancement by artificial upwelling in a western Norwegian fjord. Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. 352: 39-52

Hamre, B., Stamnes, J.J., Frette, Ø, Erga, S.R., Stamnes, K. 2008. Could stratospheric ozone depletion lead to enhanced aquatic primary production in polar regions. Limnol. Oceanogr. 53: 332-338

Erga, S.R., Lie, G.C., Aarø, L.H., Aursland, K., Olseng, C.D., Frette, Ø., Hamre, B. 2010. Fine scale vertical displacement of Phaeodactylum tricornutum (Bacillariophyceae) in stratified waters: Influence of halocline and day length on buoyancy control. J. Exp. Mar. Biol. Ecol. 384: 7-17

Magnesen, T., Erga, S.R., Christophersen, G. 2010. Growth of scallop spat in a raceway nursery during autumn conditions in western Norwegian coastal waters. J. Shellfish Res. 29: 45-54

Paulson, R., Knutsen, G., Erga, S.R. 2010. Isocitrate lyase activity patterns during cell cycle in synchronous cultures of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Chlorophyceae). Alogological. Stud. 133: 43-64

 

Initiation and conduction of special research projects – Projects funded by the Norwegian Research Council are: 1. “Pysiological effects of UV-radiation on key species of marine phytoplankton”, 1993-1995, in collaboration with senior scientist Francisco Rey, Institute of Marine Research, Bergen. 2. “Light and Life in Norwegian Waters (LLNW)”, a pilot project, 1997. 3. “LLNW - Program for Advanced equipment”, with the overall objective of purchasing optical equipment and instruments for laboratory and field measurements, 1998. 4. “LLNW”, a continuation and expansion of project 2, with the overall objective of developing optical instrumentation and methods to characterize optical properties, composition, underwater light levels, ocean colour, and primary production of high latitude coastal waters, 1998-2000. 5. “Light and Life in Icy Arctic Waters”, with the overall objective of modelling irradiance and primary production in a coupled atmosphere-snow-ice-ocean system, 2000-2002. 6. "Light and Life in African Environment", with the overall objective of studying the connection between light and life in Lake Victoria, in collaboration with Makarere University, Kampala, Uganda, 1998. 7.  and “LLNW: Physics/Biology Based Approach to Satellite Monitoring of Primary Production and Algal Blooms”, with the overall objective of developing, implementing, testing, and validating quantitative algorithms for characterizing and monitoring marine constituents, underwater light levels, and primary production in Norwegian coastal waters from satellite measurements of ocean colour, medio 2002- medio 2005. All the “Light and Life” projects have been conducted in close collaboration with professor Jakob J. Stamnes and associated professor Øyvind Frette at the Department of Physics and Technology, UoB.

 

I also have a collaboration with the senior scientists Jan Aure and Øivind Strand, and scientist Tore Strohmeier at the Institute of Marine Research (IMR), Bergen since 2005. The work is executed in the Lysefjord, Rogaland (east of Stavanger) and is funded by the Strategic Institute Programme  ”CANO; Carrying capacity in Norwegian Aquaculture" and the research programme "GATE; Growth performance and detoxification of mussels cultured in a fjord enhanced by forced upwelling of nutrients from deep water", both projects at IMR.