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Research
The ecology and restoration on submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) is my main research focus.
Historically 16 species of SAV were commonly found in the Chesapeake Bay or nearby rivers. Following the declines on the 1970’s, Bay grasses have made a slow come-back over the past 20 years. However, in the mid-salinity regions of Chesapeake Bay, there is low species diversity when compared to pre-decline years. Approximately 90% of the SAV coverage in the Choptank River is one species, Ruppia maritima (Orth et. al, 1984-2001).
Our research efforts have centered on the theme that existing Ruppia maritima (Widgeon grass) beds can serve as nursery areas for the restoration and survival of more desirable and more stable SAV species (Potamogeton perfoliatus or redhead grass and Stuckenia pectinata or Sago pondweed).
Our restoration efforts have been successful in areas where existing R. maritima beds have served as nurse crops for other species of SAV. |
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Not only did the transplanted areas survive and increase in size and density, but satellite colonies of both species were located at two of the transplant sites, which increased the total area occupied by these more stable species by over 600%. The aerial photographs show both our original transplants (represented by the red dots) and the new P. perfoliatus patches (represented by the yellow dots). The green line outlines the R. maritima bed.
We are currently investigating the mechanisms for this spread.
For more details of our research efforts, please click here (pdf). |
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