Fragile Networks: Glass Sculptures

The coral structures represent ecosystem networks. The fragile nature of the glass emphasises that these ecosystems are delicate to a certain extent.

Some species adapt well to change, and scientists have been excited to learn that many Arctic species thrive during the Arctic Night, periods of 24 hours of darkness over the winter months, previously presumed to be a period of relative inactivity, when some adapt to the darkness by foraging for whatever resources they can find, rather than going for a specific food source. Other species migrate to find resources elsewhere, some overwinter to develop and emerge when there is more access to resources again.

Species will have to adapt across different environments due to climate change, changing their resources or migrating to more liveable habitats. This is already affecting many people as well as plant, animal and insect populations around the globe as a result of the climate crisis. 

Scientists are still learning about individual species and collective ecosystem dynamics. We know what some of the larger implications of climate change are: warming, drought, natural disasters, but we cannot fully predict the effects of climate change across ecosystems.

Designed by artist Jennifer Argo

Fabricated by scientific glass blower Ian Pearson, at Glass Creations in Thurso and North Lands Creative in Caithness.