Institutional Seminar Series
Tuesday, April 26
via Zoom (Link to be sent morning of)
1:00 p.m. Talks begin w/ Q&A
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Title: Diel dynamics of microbial biogeochemistry in coastal marine systems
Abstract: Coastal marine environments maintain their own unique planktonic microbiomes and distinct biogeochemical properties compared to the surrounding ocean waters. Benthic primary producers, such as macroalgae, seagrasses, and corals contribute significantly to microbial ecology in coastal waters by manipulating key environmental parameters, like carbon substrate availability and oxygen concentrations, that influence the growth and metabolism of microbes. Microorganisms comprise the majority of biomass in the water column and their role in the decomposition of dissolved organic substrates is critical for the transformation and recycling of mineral nutrients. For example, day and night populations of coral reef microbes differ compositionally and encode significantly different metabolic profiles. Specific bacterial taxa involved in nitrogen and sulfur cycling demonstrate distinct temporal patterns, indicating that microbial roles in nutrient transfer may track the diel metabolism of reef benthic communities. Active research in my lab seeks to characterize the diverse assemblages of organic substrates released into coastal marine waters by benthic primary producers, and identify microbial metabolisms involved in nutrient transformations and recycling in these environments.
Title: Birch Aquarium Welcomes Little Blue Penguins
Abstract: In summer 2022, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography will open Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins. This opening is the largest addition to the aquarium since opening in its current location in 1992. The panel of presenters will share insight into the penguins and their Species Survival Plan, or SSP, as well as the design of the habitat, and how guests and students will be able to experience it.