2010 Graduate Student Colloquium

The Marine Biology Graduate Student Colloquium was held on September 24-25, 2010. This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. Win Watson from the University of New Hampshire. Dr. Watson’s studies include neurophysiology, ecology and behavior of marine organisms. His keynote address was on Friday, September 24 followed by a poster session and social. Student oral presentations took place on Saturday, September 25 followed by Dr. Watson’s closing address. Additionally on Saturday, there was a Colloquium Social featuring Lowcountry Boil held at the Outdoor Classroom during which the new students were introduced. Many graduate students in Marine Biology presented their research. The 2010 Marine Biology Graduate Student Colloquium showcased the student’s hard work and dedication to the marine science field. Thank you for joining us in support of the students and the exciting research conducted in the Fort Johnson community. Follow the 2010 Colloquium link above for a detailed event schedule and to review the poster and presentation abstracts.

Rehabilitated Loggerhead Recaptured

Dave as VannaSouth Carolina Aquarium’s very first rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtle was recaptured this summer off the Georgia coast; this is only the second recapture out of over fifty releases.  Loggerheads are endangered sea turtles and each summer many large females visit Charleston’s beaches to nest.  The adult male loggerhead recaptured was considered healthy and ready to mate.  Dr. David Owens, professor and researcher at the College of Charleston, considers this recapture after a decade to be remarkable.  Nicknamed “Stinky,” this loggerhead is proof that rehabilitation does indeed work.  Read more about Stinky’s story or track other sea turtle’s travels.

Professors Present Their Research at a Global Change Conference

Dr. Louis and Karen Burnett presented their research findings at the Global Change and Global Science: Comparative Physiology in a Changing World conference of the American Physiological Society this August in Colorado.  The Burnett Laboratory studies the effects of high carbon dioxide and low oxygen levels on marine organisms.  Organisms with environmental stresses as these have been shown to display a decrease in their metabolism and are unable to efficiently fight off infections.  The marine organisms they study are accustomed to environmental stresses such as these and are still showing compromised immune systems.  Therefore, it is shocking to think of the stresses deep water organisms could be facing with decreased oxygen levels coupled with high carbon dioxide.  With scientists focusing their attention on the risks of ocean acidification, the Burnett laboratory’s research may provide a peak into these possible dangers the animals and their environments may face.  For more information please visit the full article.