Modern Planktology: Current State and Prospects (Based on materials from the 5th All-Russian Conference «Current Problems of Planktology»

Modern planktology is the science, which is comprehensively assessing the biological diversity, structure, and functioning of pelagic communities in various water bodies, as well as their roles in ensuring fish productivity and supporting the sustainable development of aquatic ecosystems. A detailed analysis of topical planktology issues at the current scientific level, identifying the most complex challenges, and assessing the prospects for the development of this science are essential not only for the successful fundamental research in aquatic ecology but also for addressing critical issues in fisheries and applied hydrobiology, environmental protection, and maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems. In this regard, in September 2025, Russian planktologists and their colleagues from the Republic of Belarus gathered for the fifth time on the Baltic coast to participate in the scientific conference “Current Issues in Planktology”. The conference presented the latest advances in the studies of biodiversity and trophic interactions in plankton, taxonomy and identification of major groups of planktonic organisms, research results on invasive species and their roles in pelagic communities, and new information on harmful phytoplankton blooms in marine, brackish, and freshwater ecosystems. Furthermore, a taxonomic training course for young scientists was held during the conference.