Breakthrough research in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology exposes threat to marine populations
Routine lab instruction in the class of parasitologist Armand Kuris has led to the identification of a specialized crab egg predator previously unobserved off the Pacific Coast. Lead author Jaden Orli and a team of undergraduates characterized the lifecycle of the "nicothoid" copepod, which has serious implications for regional rock crab fisheries. "An egg predator strikes at the next generation directly," said Orli.
The discovery identifies the predator within the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology lab as a significant concern for regional marine biodiversity. Supported by mentor Zoe Zilz, the team noted the creature's habit of appearing and disappearing in historical records elsewhere. Professor Kuris praised the students' dedication to characterizing an organism that targets three commercial crab species. Read the full story on The Current.
Photo Credit: Matt Perko