Phytoplankton Ecology
My research interests are related to phytoplankton ecology in the estuarine environment. More specifically, I am interested in the relationships between water quality parameters and phytoplankton distribution and composition. I have been involved in a 22-year monitoring program in Chesapeake Bay which affords me the opportunity to analyze and better understand these relationships in order to assist with the effective management of this ecosystem. The development of phytoplankton indicators has led to our recent development of a phytoplankton index of biotic integrity. This index serves as a tool to assess the habitat condition of the phytoplankton community. This index is being incorporated into an ecosystem index which will allow the management community to assess water and habitat quality of Chesapeake Bay in a more holistic fashion. My most passionate research interest involves the study of algal blooms, of which there are many in Chesapeake Bay. Specifically, their documentation, causes and ultimate impact on the ecosystem have been a primary focus of my research during the past twenty years.
