Neuston Net Research Collective
DISCOVERY Vessel Relaz
San Juan, Puerto Rico
September 2024
Purpose of Research
Dr. Steve Morton of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration serves as the Principal Investigator for the Phytoplankton Monitoring Network (PMN) with the goals of increasing the world’s interest in the microscopic organisms that pepper our coastal waters, along with collecting valuable distribution data. A firm understanding of what species of algae are living in which region can help to track major changes in ocean water quality and chemistry, as well as helping to predict and track events such as harmful algal blooms.
Program Overview
In September of 2024, DISCOVERY Vessel Relaz began on the Neuston Net Research Collective project within the Phytoplankton Monitoring Network. His goals will now involve collecting plankton samples from this region of the Caribbean to help identify region-wide phytoplankton communities.
Duration of Project
Ongoing since September 2024
Application
The PMN has hundreds of participants all across the country. Our SeaKeepers Citizen Scientists are helping contribute to this project by collecting algae found throughout the Caribbean and Tropical Atlantic. Researchers will then identify and characterize the plankton communities found in an effort to update previously-known information for the 21st century. With your help, we can accomplish this goal, furthering science and learning together!
Location
San Juan Puerto Rico
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