07/04/2025 | During the Future Day at the Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), curious schoolchildren got an insight into in marine research. The programme included taking water samples, microscopy, DNA extraction, chromatography and a visit to the seawater test facility with corals and jellyfish.
In the nearby 'Kuhgraben' stream, the kids togther with ZMT colleagues from the Experimental Marine Laboratories took water samples with plankton nets and extracted sediment samples from the bottom with a grab. To the children's surprise, a mobile phone and some small change turned up in the muddy sediment on closer examination.
The water samples were tested for temperature, pH value and salt content and later scrutinised under the microscope. The children discovered small copepods, water fleas and ciliates.
Under the scanning electron microscope, the research-enthusiastic girls and boys were able to look at various calcareous organisms. Later, they determined the pigments of plants using thin-layer chromatography.
The children were able to marvel at tropical fish and jellyfish during the guided tour of the ZMT's seawater experimental facility.
Another highlight of the day was the DNA isolation from the oral mucosa. Afterwards, the pupils were allowed to take their own DNA home in an Eppendorf vial. They were also given a research diary in which to record the results of their experiments.
Many thanks to the employees of the ZMT's Experimental Marine Laboratories, who organised this day of action with the support of Ulla Tiedemann from the press office: Dorothee Dasbach, Lorenz Eckardt, Fabian Hüge, Sebastian Flotow, Jule Mawick, Kira Szidat, Christina Staschok, Nico Steinel and Constanze von Waldthausen.
About Girls' and Boys' Day
The nationwide day of action for girls and boys from the 5th grade onwards is organised by companies, organisations, research institutions and universities to inform pupils about possible careers and give them exciting insights into the working day of their employees. On this day, the children can explore new and unfamiliar professions and spend a practice-orientated day outside of school.
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