WHAT WE DO
PROJECT GOALS
We work to understand how climate change is going to affect artificial reefs. Our current project looks at barnacles, crabs, and bivalves on artificial reefs and how their health will be affected by future ocean warming and acidification. These animals are an important part of the food web and are consumed by different fish species.
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Following this work, we will examine how predator-prey interactions on artificial reefs will change due to warming and acidification. Both of these projects will give us a better understanding of what role artificial reefs will play in future oceans.
Marine
Conservation
Conserving the diversity and function of the area near artificial reef ecosystems is the overall goal for this project. Through education and monitoring of local and nuisance species, we can assist marine and fishery management and hopefully enact environmental policies to protect the Gulf.
Education
We aim to increase awareness of the importance and function of artificial reefs in the northern Gulf of Mexico through this project. We hope you'll explore this site to learn more about artificial reefs and how you can help. You can also check out VR experiences of our dives coming soon!
Monitoring Invasive Species
The community science component of this project is critical for helping scientists monitor conditions in and around the Gulf. With more eyes on these areas and information being collected more quickly, we will be able to respond to potentially harmful species in a more effective way.
Inform
Management
The information we collect will be disseminated to marine managers who can use it to determine which reefs are most resilient to ocean change and which need more protection.
Fisheries
Artificial structures are important areas for recreational and commercial fisheries. The information collected by our lab will assist in managing fisheries sustainably.
Environmental Policy
The data collected during this project can spur meaningful policy changes that will protect areas crucial to the species of the northern Gulf of Mexico.
TEAM MEMBERS
FUNDERS
NOAA's Ocean Acidification Program seeks to better prepare society to respond to changing ocean conditions and resources by expanding understanding of ocean acidification, through interdisciplinary partnerships, nationally and internationally.
Louisiana Sea Grant is part of the National Sea Grant Program, a network made up of 34 programs located in each of the coastal and Great Lakes states and Puerto Rico. Sea Grant Programs work individually and in partnership to address major marine and coastal challenges.