As primary producers, phytoplankton form the base of the aquatic food web and have far-reaching influence over such factors as dissolved oxygen and light penetration in aquatic ecosystems. Understanding the role they play and the factors that influence them is a critical step in learning to manage our environment for sustainable healthy ecosystems.

Similarly, maintaining water quality is recognized as an important element in management of coastal zones, but in order to properly address the impact of human activity we must understand how various human-induced and natural factors influence water quality. And, we must have a solid understanding of how water quality influences the integrity and health of the ecosystem.

The phytoplankton Lab at SERC conducts long-term measurements and experimental research to help understand these complex issues and provide sound scientific evidence for managers making important environmental decisions.
>>> read more about the lab's scientific goals