The project aims to conduct critical public outreach to mitigate the negative impacts of human activities on the health of dolphins and the ecosystem in the Indian River Lagoon. It includes the development of educational materials and outreach events to raise awareness and promote conservation efforts.
This project aims to analyze the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Florida spiny lobster and stone crab industries. It will involve examining production and price data to provide insights into the economic impacts of the pandemic on these fisheries.
This project focuses on synthesizing expert knowledge to improve the understanding of Biscayne Bay’s ecological status and trends. It aims to establish a monitoring framework that can guide future research and conservation efforts in the region.
This research investigates the fish communities in seagrass meadows of the Indian River Lagoon by employing both conventional sampling and innovative eDNA methodologies. The findings are expected to contribute to better management and restoration strategies for this vital ecosystem.
The project seeks to evaluate the potential for a sponge nursery in southern Biscayne Bay to restore ecological balance and improve water quality. By identifying suitable sponge species and environmental conditions, the project aims to lay the groundwork for future restoration initiatives.
This project explores the effects of anthropogenic sound on the behavior and physiology of bivalves, focusing on valve-gaping and filtration rates. The research aims to provide insights for improving aquaculture practices and understanding bivalve contributions to ecosystem services.
The project seeks to integrate data from the Return ‘Em Right program to evaluate the effectiveness of fish descending devices in reducing discard mortality among Gulf of Mexico reef fish. By analyzing species-specific responses and discard compositions, the research aims to enhance outreach efforts and promote sustainable fishing practices.
The “Let ‘Em Grow 2024” project aims to sustain bay scallop populations in Florida by promoting the harvest of larger scallops, allowing smaller ones to spawn. This initiative involves educating scallopers and distributing tools to improve harvesting practices.
This project aims to enhance sponge communities in Florida’s Tarpon Springs region by investigating ecological factors crucial for restoration success. It will test species interactions and the effects of elevation on sponge growth, providing insights for sustainable fisheries and ecosystem management.
The project aims to identify and isolate locally available algae strains to enhance the health and efficiency of shellfish hatcheries and nurseries in Florida. By developing a standardized protocol for algae strain isolation, the project seeks to improve microalgae feed options tailored to local conditions, thereby increasing the productivity and sustainability of shellfish aquaculture.
This project aims to enhance marine animal conservation efforts by integrating community science and educational initiatives in Levy, Dixie, and Taylor Counties. It involves collaboration with local schools to develop and implement a conservation-focused curriculum and professional development workshops for teachers.
The project investigates the habitat affinities of blue crabs across the salt marsh-mangrove ecotone. It involves field research and lab experiments to understand habitat selection and ecological interactions.
