This summer, two interns embarked on exciting research projects in Alaska and New Hampshire, delving into the unexplored realms of Trena Lake and the coastal waters of New Hampshire. Amy Deatherage, an EPP scholar, ventured into the unknown ecology of Trena Lake in Seldovia, Alaska, while Clara Oxford, a marine science major, investigated the diets of Atlantic cod and striped bass in New Hampshire.
Amy’s internship at the Kasitsna Bay Lab under NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) unveiled surprising discoveries about Trena Lake. Following a seismic event in 1964, the lake transformed into a tidal lagoon, revealing a unique ecosystem with unexpected salinity levels comparable to the ocean. Amy and her colleague, Nyrobi Whitfield, encountered regionally unique organisms like bubble snails and observed the presence of herring eggs, hinting at the lake’s potential role as a herring nursery.
Meanwhile, Clara’s internship with NOAA’s Office of Coastal Management and the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve focused on studying the diets of Atlantic cod and striped bass in New Hampshire’s coastal waters. By using gastric lavage to analyze stomach contents, Clara aimed to understand the energy gain and dietary preferences of these declining fish species. The research could provide valuable insights into population declines and inform future conservation efforts.
Both interns showcased the importance of exploring and studying lesser-known ecological systems to broaden our understanding of marine ecosystems and inform conservation strategies. Their hands-on experiences and scientific contributions highlight the significance of research in uncovering hidden ecological dynamics and guiding sustainable management practices.
As we continue to unravel the mysteries of our natural world, initiatives like these internships play a crucial role in fostering scientific curiosity, promoting environmental stewardship, and advancing our knowledge of marine ecosystems. Through collaborative efforts and innovative research methods, we can gain valuable insights into the intricate relationships between species and their habitats, paving the way for informed conservation decisions.
#Exploration #MarineEcology #Conservation #NexSouk #AIForGood #EthicalAI
References:
– NOAA Office of Education: Into the unknown: My internship studying the ecology of Trena Lake
– NOAA Office of Education: You are what you eat! My internship studying Atlantic cod and striped bass diets in New Hampshire
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