Researchers have found that microorganisms can enhance silica uptake and sediment formation rates by a factor of three and a half compared to environments without microbial activity. This discovery sheds new light on how ocean chemistry regulates carbon dioxide, the ocean's acidity, and the global climate.
A recent study tested various indicators to identify potential sources of wastewater contamination in shellfish farms. The researchers found that using multiple indicators in combination provided a greater potential for source identification and detected seasonal variation in contamination risk.
A new paper explores the impact of bridge construction on manatee populations, highlighting entanglement risks and habitat destruction. DISL researchers offer best practices to reduce negative effects.
The workshop aimed to address the knowledge gap in tidal marshes by discussing key issues, including public awareness, conservation efforts, and sea-level rise impacts. The meeting drew experts from various fields, from undergraduate students to retired leaders, to share perspectives on tidal marsh ecology.
Researchers at Dauphin Island Sea Lab found that pre-storm oceanic environments contribute to hurricane intensification. Marine heatwaves, like those caused by Hurricane Michael, can prime the coastal waters for extreme storm events.
Research finds that river delta vegetation can delay and reduce floodwaters, providing communities more time to prepare for storm surges and flooding. The study suggests that managing vegetation type can decrease the impact of coastal flooding by reducing downstream water height.
Researchers use harmless fluorescent dye to track oyster larval movements in Mobile Bay, finding larvae are transported from lower bay to Mississippi Sound via freshwater flow paths. This approach can be applied to other marine species, aiding restoration and management of larval transport pathways globally.
A new study analyzes 10 years of data on manatee movement patterns, revealing that they use nearshore channels more frequently and travel faster in all channel types. This research sheds light on the risks associated with vessel collisions and informs suggestions for optimal channel maintenance.
Scientists investigate how tropical species are adapting to the newly formed pass in St. Joe Bay, a critical ecosystem with seagrass meadows and diverse marine life. The research aims to understand potential changes in seagrass consumption and its impact on juvenile fish, crabs, and shrimp.
Dr. Kelly Dorgan received a CAREER grant to study ecosystem engineering and bioturbation rates in marine sediments. She aims to improve nutrient regeneration and predict bioturbation patterns, benefiting ocean health.
A study by Dauphin Island Sea Lab team reveals black mangroves shift salt marsh trophic pathways, with grazers preferring their leaves due to higher nutritional value. Bacteria also show a preference for decomposing black mangrove leaves, altering ecosystem dynamics.
A two-year study by researchers at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab found that ten times more trash washes up on the coast of Texas than any other Gulf state. The majority of the trash was plastic, with most occurring during spring and summer months.
The Dauphin Island Sea Lab is leading a five-year project to map and restore SAV in coastal Alabama, aiming to cut the frequency of mapping from every six years to twice within a six-eight year period. The project will also enhance educational resources and cover the restoration of three zones, including areas prone to erosion.
A new study published in Biogeosciences reveals that declining silicon concentrations in the European Arctic Ocean reduce diatom production, impacting the food chain and organic matter sinking to the seafloor. The research team confirms this effect in 95% of samples collected during a research expedition.
The Mississippi Bight region is expected to expand its low dissolved oxygen zones due to human impacts. Satellite data and field observations suggest the eastern delta region is similarly affected by river discharge.
Researchers use stable isotope techniques to analyze clam shells, revealing wastewater inputs to estuaries and coastal food webs. The technique helps distinguish natural from human-driven influences on coastal ecosystems.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has partnered with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab to conduct extensive habitat restoration, monitoring, and research along the Alabama coast. The partnership will utilize $1.5 million in funding to construct shoreline restoration projects and monitor their efficacy.
Australian jellyfish, Phyllorhiza punctata, have reappeared in the Gulf of Mexico, with sightings reported as far north as North Carolina. The species can outcompete commercially important fish for food and consume their larvae.
Studies of coral reefs, rocky intertidal areas, and sea grass beds suggest that depletion of top-level consumers is a key driver of ecosystem changes. The authors' findings have major implications for coastal ecosystem management, as reducing nutrient levels may not restore habitats.
Researchers aim to develop a laser fluorometer that detects multiple target pigments, distinguishing between different types of algae in turbid coastal waters. The tool will characterize microalgal populations rapidly and easily, helping to identify potentially harmful species during red tides.
A massive marsh planting project is set to begin in coastal Alabama and Mississippi, aiming to restore salt marshes and their ecosystem services. The project, led by Dr. Cebrian, will focus on restoring black needlerush and other plant species, and will involve the coordinated efforts of researchers, resource managers, and volunteers.
Drs. Heck and Dindo are restoring Robinson Island's seagrass beds by planting birdstakes for seabirds to use as resting areas, fertilizing the shoal grass beneath them. The project aims to bring the habitats back to their peak condition through a combination of educational signage, replanting sea oats, and fertilizer.
A team of scientists found that coral populations were healthy until the 1980s when they were killed by disease and high sea temperatures. Addressing global environmental issues like climate change is crucial for saving coral reefs.