In the field of ecology, scientists use concepts and theory to predict how nature works. But due to logistics, experimental ecologists can usually only test one theory at a time, which hampers our predictive capability and the success of conservation and restoration efforts. To address this, a new study led by MSC Assistant Professor David Kimbro and collaborators from Oregon State University and University of California – Davis, demonstrated a new research approach that simultaneously evaluated multiple theories to improve the researchers’ ability to explain why the oyster abundance in a central California estuary has fluctuated greatly over a 10 year period. Recently published in the journal OIKOS, this study provides the field of ecology with a new research framework, while also improving ongoing conservation and restoration efforts of oysters in Pacific coast estuaries.
Marine and Environmental Sciences
Featured Faculty