My PhD examines why filamentous algal turfs replace lost kelp and coral as global disturbance drives reef ecosystems toward degraded states. Using settlement-tile experiments on Tasmanian reefs, I show that acute kelp loss, not chronic urchin grazing, triggers turf proliferation, while chronic herbivory determines whether turfs persist or kelp recovers. Extending this across four sites from the Great Barrier Reef to southern Tasmania, I demonstrate that turfs persist longer on tropical than temperate reefs, except in dense coral patches, revealing realm-specific feedbacks that protect intact kelp forests from collapse. My work unifies tropical and temperate turf ecology under shared mechanisms.
Research keyword/s: Algal turfs
About the BEAKER STREET ROVING SCIENTIST PROGRAM
Each August, hundreds of Roving Scientists descend upon Hobart, filling up pubs and chatting to strangers as part of Beaker Street Festival. Discover a new world down the lens of microscope, and joining the least-boring bar conversations you’ve ever heard and these free (the chats – not the drinks) events.
For Scientists, Beaker Street’s Roving Scientist Program offers an excellent outreach, professional development, and networking opportunity. It’s the nerdiest and funnest way to share your research with the public, expand your network, and be inspired by leaders in all sectors of science and science communication.
