Marine ecology includes research on the dynamics of fragile marine ecosystems and invertebrate reproduction.
Coral reef dynamics are a major focus of the former and include consequences of reef fishing and climate-driven coral loss. The impact of the oil and gas industry on benthic communities is explored with remotely operated vehicles.
Analysis of stable isotope fractionation is applied to quantifying fundamental ecosystem processes such as omnivory and predator-prey interactions, while analysis of fatty acids and pigments informs on selectivity and resource partitioning amongst deep-sea deposit-feeders. Practical approaches to coastal governance are developed through linkage of natural and social science theory.
Research on invertebrate reproduction includes using marine polychaetes as models for understanding cell cycle control and the molecular basis of tidal rhythmicity, and the effects of microalgal toxins on gamete viability, fertilisation and embryogenesis.
Emerging new programmes in the two sub-themes include molecular biological and geochemical work on frontier hydrothermal-vent communities in the southern Ocean and the consequences of anthropogenic ocean acidification for marine fauna.
Find out more about our Marine Ecosystem Dynamics Research Group: