Expedition 121: Mission Iconic Reefs
Scientists from Clemson University worked from onboard R/V ANGARI to conduct reef surveys and establish cryptofauna monitoring sites throughout the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Scientist Philip Gravinese
Dr. Philip Gravinese is an Assistant Professor of Marine Science at Eckerd College and his research is aimed at determining how both singular and simultaneous environmental stressors impact the early life stages of marine invertebrates.
Common Sea Fan (Gorgonia ventalina)
Common sea fans are commonly found on coral reefs and can be identified by their purple tissue.
Caribbean Reef Shark (Carcharhinus perezii)
Caribbean reef sharks are the most common shark found on or near coral reefs throughout the Caribbean.
Atlantic Blue Crab (Callinectes Sapidus)
The Atlantic blue crab gets its name from the vibrant color of its shell are found along the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Coast.
Aquaculture for Marine Restoration
Dr. Patterson talks about the interesting ways that aquaculture, or farming aquatic plants and animals, might be used as a tool to improve habitat quality or enhance target species populations.
Common Sand Dollar (Echinarachnius parma)
The common sand dollar is a small invertebrate known as an echinoderm that commonly washes up on shores.
Caribbean Reef Octopus (Octopus briareus)
A master of disguise, Caribbean reef octopuses are found in warm waters around coral reefs and grassy and rocky seabeds.
Queen Conch (Aliger gigas)
The queen conch is a large marine gastropod that is known for its pink-lipped shell. You can commonly find them in the seagrass beds and on the sandy sea floor.
Superheroes of the Sea – How Nudibranchs Thrive in Tough Times
Dr. Richelle Tanner of Chapman University talks about the fascinating world of nudibranchs, more commonly called sea slugs, and how these invertebrates can survive and even thrive under harsh conditions.