Research InterestsMy research revolves about understanding how marine forest ecosystems work, and how stressors (principally climate change) alter their functioning. I am a spade-and-bucket ecologist who tries to spend most days underwater making natural history observations and experimental manipulations. I often combine such evidence with experiments in the lab. I am however convinced that understanding of marine forests at scales relevant to human decision-making requires interdisciplinary partnerships. As such, I also collaborate with molecular ecologists to complement the ecological and physiological insights gained through my research with genomic approaches.
My scientific endeavours have direct implications for the conservation of these valuable systems, as they can inform management strategies seeking to boost marine forest resilience and/or help their recovery. Efforts to conserve marine forests will however be futile if they lack the appreciation of the public. For this reason, I am also deeply passionate about science communication and work together with social scientists to better understand how society perceives marine habitats, with the overall aim of developing more effective ways of educating the public. |
Current research lines
Rise of algal turfsIncreasingly, marine forests are being replaced by low-lying and poorly structured aggregations of algae known as turfs. My research investigates the kelp-inhibiting properties of turfs and how they vary across regions
Macroalgal adaptation to climate changeMy research examines whether macroalgae have the capacity to adjust their sensitivity to high temperatures, which may help them survive future warming
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Redistribution of marine forestsClimate change is driving the redistribution of biota worldwide. My work studies how shifts in marine foundation species affect ecosystem functioning
Herbivory in marine forestsHerbivores can shape the structure of ecosystems. My work examines the drivers of herbivory in macroalgal forests and how they will be affected by global change
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Role of macroalgae in the oceanic carbon cycleIt has recently been suggested that macroalgal forests could contribute to natural carbon sequestration. My research explores their contribution to the oceanic carbon cycle and their potential to act as donors to carbon sinks
Public awareness towards marine forestsEfforts to conserve marine forests will be futile if they lack the appreciation of the public. My research examines community attitudes towards these habitats and the issues affecting their health
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