https://www.oceanexpert.net/expert/BOBrien

MSc

Research

Biological Oceanography, Marine Ecology

As a PhD student at the University of New Hampshire, I am currently working with Dr. Chris Neefus and Dr. Jenn Dijkstra to address questions regarding the biogeography and ecology of macroalgae (seaweeds) in the Gulf of Maine and the New England region. 
Part of my current research involves using a web-based collection of digitized herbarium records gathered from institutions across the United States. Using these occurrence records, I am investigating changes in the spatial distribution of certain species over time, such as range expansions or contractions. In addition, I am looking for regional changes in algae community composition.
I am also interested in local-level ecological effects caused by the introduced red algae Dasysiphonia japonica. This non-native species has spread rapidly through this region, although some of the underlying mechanisms responsible for this success are not fully understood. I will be studying the biological traits which allow this species to be so successful, as well as the resulting interspecific competition between the invader and native algae species. 

North Atlantic Ocean

English