Ecosystem Studies

Understanding how ecosystems respond to pollution

This research includes studies on the effects of hypoxia (low oxygen), endocrine disruptors (chemicals that can temper the hormonal systems of animals) and emerging new chemicals (such as fire retardants, which have a ubiquitous distribution) on marine ecosystems. By focusing on these poorly known areas, MERIT's research will provide us with a better understanding of how ecosystems may be damaged, and their potential for recovery.

Making use of field studies and its own novel technologies for analysis, MERIT also explores which marine species are most affected, recover fastest from pollution damage, how soon and why, and how the recolonisation of these species may affect the subsequent development of the marine community. This knowledge is vital for understanding the recovery processes of damaged marine ecosystems and for effective management.