Title: The effects of storage and fall velocity on Ruppia maritima survival
Department: Biology
Description: Seagrass is a type of underwater vegetation that traps carbon and acts as a nursery ground for economically important species, such as the blue crab. In the Chesapeake Bay, the historically widespread species of seagrass, Zostera marina, is being replaced by Ruppia maritima, which is more resistant to recent environmental change. However, very little is known about Ruppia seed biology. My project will investigate the survival of Ruppia seeds that have different fall velocities in water and different storage periods. This metric is important as it helps scientists determine which seeds are the best to use for restoration. The knowledge gained from my project is important for adapting seagrass restoration methods for Ruppia in the Bay; my results will be integrated into seagrass restoration in the Bay, particularly efforts done by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science.
Hometown: Falls Church, Virginia
Advisor: Randolph Chambers
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