Experimental marine ecology research conducted primarily at Ghent University focuses on studying species interactions, benthic metabolism and marine food web ecology in the context of a changing environment (primarily climate change but also human activities at sea). With access to advanced experimental facilities like climate rooms and incubators, researchers manipulate environmental factors such as temperature, pH, salinity and food availability (quality and quantity) to investigate the impacts of future climate conditions on organism, community and ecosystem responses. These controlled experiments provide valuable insights into the ecological dynamics and resilience of marine ecosystems under changing environmental conditions. By understanding how species interactions and benthic metabolism are affected by climate factors, this research contributes to our ability to predict and mitigate the impacts of climate change on marine organisms and ecosystems.