Aquatic ecosystems are constantly responding to the interactive effects of both local and global stressors. There are of course numerous and diverse ways of framing and studying these ecosystem responses, all with their own unique merits and challenges. In this seminar I’ll discuss one potential framework: viewing ecosystem scale function through the lens of biogeochemistry. Centered around the impacts of sustainable aquaculture, I’ll present case studies from Lake Yojoa (Honduras) and Whycocomagh Bay (Nova Scotia) and share how layering different analytical and modeling techniques (from metagenomics to remote sensing to theoretical models) has shed light on the cryptic biogeochemical impacts of industrial aquaculture; findings which can be applied to a broader suite of anthropogenic disturbances as well. I will conclude with demonstrating how this body of research has been particularly impactful because of concerted efforts to combine both fundamental and applied research questions in order to pursue rigorous basic science while also meaningfully working with local communities.

*Refreshments: 12-12:30 PM, ES&T Atrium