PyriSentinel

The PyriSentinel project, focused on the Pyrenees, will study the microorganisms in high-mountain lakes using advanced DNA sequencing techniques. This region, experiencing warming above the global average, is a key observatory for assessing the impacts of global change. Approximately 300 lakes will be examined; these, due to their geographic isolation, extreme conditions, and climate variations, harbor significant microorganism diversity. Characterizing the planktonic communities is crucial for studying ecosystem productivity, as these communities contribute to nutrient cycling, water purification, and interact with macroorganisms both at the trophic level and through their pathogenic potential. Biomonitoring will help evaluate the health of ecosystems and their genetic heritage, while also examining potential environmental change impacts on these sentinel lakes.

The project, which involves experts from France, Spain, and Andorra, promotes knowledge consolidation and policy coordination in response to environmental changes. It includes (1) the implementation of innovative techniques for collecting and analyzing microorganism samples, (2) training in these techniques, and involves local communities to raise awareness of this research. In addition to scientific research, (3) PyriSentinel is committed to public participation and knowledge dissemination. PyriSentinel will provide a detailed view of the genetic diversity of aquatic microorganisms in the Pyrenees, promoting advanced techniques, establishing a benchmark in genomics-based biomonitoring, contributing to the international effort to characterize the global microbiome, and equipping professionals for effective future monitoring, tracking possible long-term impacts of climate change on these unique ecosystems.

The project is co-financed by the European Union at 65% through the Interreg VI-A Spain-France-Andorra Program (POCTEFA 2021-2027), with the aim of strengthening economic and social integration in the Spain-France-Andorra border region.

Total Budget: €1,662,385.10
Total FEDER Budget: €1,050,288.66
CREAF Budget: €311,788.80