The expedition included the collection of seabed sediments and prehistoric bone samples, which can provide important clues about past ecosystems and environmental conditions.

Innovative methods for data collection

– We collected sediment samples using a floating platform we assembled at each lake. From this platform, we lowered a pipe several meters long into the bottom of the lake to collect up to 10,000-year-old sediments. We used a method different from the 2019 Ryder expedition, which allowed us to collect more sediments in a shorter time, says Love Dalén, professor of evolutionary genetics at Stockholm University.

The researchers also searched for bone samples by walking along sites where erosion from wind and water exposed these prehistoric finds.

– We are happy with the data collection, it exceeded our expectations!

A strong impression

One of the strongest impressions from the expedition was the morning when they reached the last lake with dawn light behind them and it was completely windless.

– It was fantastic to start the work in such conditions. Our team worked very well in the field, everyone became so close that the sampling ran like a well-oiled machine, says Lové Dalen.

The next step in the project is to analyze the DNA from the samples. This analysis work is expected to provide important insight into how climate change and human activity have affected biodiversity in the Arctic over time.