An important direction is toward correlating the structure and function of the marginal ice-zone ecosystem with oceanic and atmospheric processes. Of particular interest is the influence of nutrient limitations on primary production and the role of marine phytoplankton in carbon dioxide cycling. Proposals to develop data collection technologies such as satellite remote sensing are encouraged. Terrestrial and limnetic ecosystems. The presence of relatively few species eases study of ecosystem dynamics and interpretation of experiments.
Research is needed on adaptive mechanisms and evolutionary processes.
Studies that include molecular biological approaches are encouraged. The McMurdo Dry Valleys of southern Victoria Land are of particular interest. Population biology and physiological ecology. Research is supported in population dynamics, especially metabolic, physiological, and behavioral adaptations of krill and other zooplankton and fish species. Marine mammals and birds have been the object of much research and merit further attention in some areas.