Chester Zarnoch
Benthic Ecology
Our lab studies ecological processes in urban estuarine habitats with an emphasis on nutrient cycles and bivalves. We are particularly interested in understanding the biological and physical factors that influence efforts to restore coastal habitats. Our current work examines the structure and function of living shorelines, ribbed mussel population dynamics, and bivalve impacts on nitrogen cycling. We use controlled laboratory experiments and field studies to address our research questions.
Our lab studies ecological processes in urban estuarine habitats with an emphasis on nutrient cycles and bivalves. We are particularly interested in understanding the biological and physical factors that influence efforts to restore coastal habitats. Our current work examines the structure and function of living shorelines, ribbed mussel population dynamics, and bivalve impacts on nitrogen cycling. We use controlled laboratory experiments and field studies to address our research questions.