MSc student Chantel Chang was awarded a travel grant from the North Pacific Marine Science Organization (PICES) to present her work "Can biophysical processes explain copepod connectivity and distribution across the Atlantic Ocean basin?" at the ICES/PICES 6th Zooplankton Production Symposium in Bergen, Norway in May. Congrats Chantel!
In the press: Coverage of our study exploring near-island biological hotspots
Below are links to press coverage of our island mass effect paper published last week in Nature Communications. A press release is available here.
Neuheimer Lab @ the 2016 Ocean Sciences Meeting, New Orleans
Lab member Jennifer Wong-Ala will be presenting our work on larval reef fish connectivity this week at the 2016 Ocean Sciences Meeting in New Orleans. The work is in collaboration with the Hixon and Powell labs here at UH (details below). Much thanks to ASLOMP for awarding Jennifer with a travel grant to attend the conference. Congratulations and safe travels, Jenn!
ME14D-0640: The Influence of Life History Variability on Population Connectivity: Development and Application of a Trait-Based Biophysical Model of Individuals
J. Wong-Ala, A.B. Neuheimer, M. Hixon & B. Powell
Connectivity estimates, which measure the exchange of individuals among populations, are necessary to create effective reserves for marine life. Connectivity can be influenced by a combination of biology (e.g. spawning time) and physics (e.g. currents). In the past a dispersal model was created in an effort to explain connectivity for the highly sought after reef fish Lau‘ipala (Yellow Tang, Zebrasoma flavescens) around Hawai‘i Island using physics alone, but this was shown to be insufficient. Here we created an individual based model (IBM) to describe Lau‘ipala life history and behavior forced with ocean currents and temperature (via coupling to a physical model) to examine biophysical interactions. The IBM allows for tracking of individual fish from spawning to settlement, and individual variability in modeled processes. We first examined the influence of different reproductive (e.g. batch vs. constant spawners), developmental (e.g. pelagic larval duration), and behavioral (e.g. active vs. passive buoyancy control) traits on modeled connectivity estimates for larval reef fish around Hawai‘i Island and compared results to genetic observations of parent-offspring pair distribution. Our model is trait-based which allows individuals to vary in life history strategies enabling mechanistic links between predictions and underlying traits and straightforward applications to other species and sites.
Monday, February 22, 2016 - 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - Poster Hall
New Article: Near-island biological hotspots in barren ocean basins
In an article published today in Nature Communications, we explore the extent and possible controls behind the "island mass effect" (productivity enhancements around islands). The article is a collaboration among National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, National Geographic Society, Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Bangor University.
Lab member Marie Ferguson heads to TMB-ADMB workshop
MSc candidate Marie Ferguson will head to the Template Model Builder - AD Model Builder workshop in Seattle this week. Many thanks to the ADMB-TMB team for this opportunity. Safe travels Marie!
In the press: Sedimentation, land management and reef health in Hawai'i
A press release for our paper exploring land and ocean processes shaping sedimentation on reefs off Lāna'i is available from Conservation International. The work and its implications for ridge-to-reef management was discussed on Hawai'i Public Radio.
© Conservation International/photo by Keith Lawrence
New Article: Exploring sedimentation on coral reefs
In a collaboration with Conservation International, we've explored coastal (land erosion & erosion mitigation) and oceanic (hydrodynamics) processes shaping sedimentation in coral reef environments. The paper is available at Collabra.
Now Published: Foraging activity of deep-diving odontocetes
Our article:
Giorli, G., W.W.L. Au, and A.B. Neuheimer. 2016. Differences in foraging activity of deep sea diving odontocetes in the Ligurian Sea as determined by passive acoustic recorders. Deep-Sea Research I 107:1-8.
is now in publication format and available here.
Now Published: Adult and Offspring Size in the Ocean
Our article:
Neuheimer, A.B.*, M. Hartvig, J. Heuschele, S. Hylander, T. Kiørboe, K.H. Olsson, J. Sainmont, and K.H. Andersen. 2015. Adult and offspring size in the ocean over 17 orders of magnitude follows two life history strategies. Ecology 96:3303–3311.
is now in publication format and available here.
Now Published: Characteristic Sizes of Life in the Oceans, from Bacteria to Whales
Our article:
K.H. Andersen, T. Berge, R.J. Gonçalves, M. Hartvig, J. Heuschele, S. Hylander, N.S. Jacobsen, C. Lindemann, E.A. Martens, A.B. Neuheimer*, K. Olsson, A. Palacz, F. Prowe, J. Sainmont, S.J. Traving, A.W. Visser, N. Wadhwa, and T. Kiørboe. 2016. Characteristic Sizes of Life in the Oceans, from Bacteria to Whales. Annu. Rev. Mar. Sci. 8:3.1-3.25.
is now in publication format and available here.
New Article: Explaining temporal variation in whale foraging via passive acoustics
In a collaboration with UH’s Marine Mammal Research Program over at the Hawai`i Institute of Marine Biology, we’ve explored how foraging varies over time via passive acoustic recordings for toothed whales in the Mediterranean Sea. The preprint is now available at Deep Sea Research Part I.
SOEST seeks postdoctoral fellow in Antarctic ecosystem modelling
The Smith and Powell labs in UH Oceanography are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to work on the FjordEco Project - ecosystem modelling in Antarctic ecosystems. Please see description below and contact Dr. Brian Powell for more information.
Postdoctoral Position in EcoSystem Modeling in the FjordEco Project the at University of Hawaii
(c) craigrsmithlab.com
University of Hawaii, School of Ocean and Earth Science Technology (SOEST), Antarctic Oceanography Ecosystem Modeling.
SOEST at the University of Hawai`i in Manoa seeks a Postdoctoral Scholar to collaborate in a significant inter-disciplinary and multi-institutional (Scripps, U. Hawaii, U. Alaska) project (the FjordEco Project see summary below) to observe, simulate, and understand the extreme biological productivity blooms that occur in the fjords of the Western Antarctic Peninsula. Using the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) coupled with a state-of-the-art ecosystem model, we will examine the processes that sustain a season long bloom in the Antarctic fjord. A significant observational program will be conducted, and the observations will help to validate the model processes. The results will provide new insight into the mechanisms that make the Antarctic fjords among the most biologically productive sites and how these mechanisms may be sensitive to changes in the Earth system. Further research into the influence of these physical processes on the biology of the region will be encouraged. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team of biological oceanographers, physical oceanographers and glaciologists studying fjord ecosystem dynamics along the West Antarctic Peninsula.
The successful candidate will be responsible for development of new ecosystem simulation of Antarctic fjords, comparison with in situ data, scientific research into impacts on the Fjord ecosystem, and understanding the controlling factors of nutrient delivery into the ecosystem. It is expected that the successful candidate will publish scientific articles and contribute to and/or write new funding proposals, etc.
Minimum Qualifications include: Ph.D. or equivalent in biological oceanography, physical oceanography (with ecosystem experience), marine ecosystems, or related field, ability to work well independently as part of a team, and strong communication skills both verbal and written. Preferred candidates will have experience with ecosystem modeling, mathematical and computational skills with background in ecosystem dynamics. Candidates should be motivated to drive new developments in ecosystems simulations.
The appointment is planned for three years, and it will be reviewed annually and renewed based upon performance and funding. Stipend is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Review of applications will begin immediately, and will proceed until the position is filled. Electronic applications containing: (1) curriculum vitae; (2) one-page statement of research interests; (3) one published academic article most indicative of your work; (4) contact information for three references to powellb@hawaii.edu. Email verification will be sent upon receipt of your application, please inquire if receipt is not received. For more information, please contact Dr. Brian Powell <powellb@hawaii.edu>.
The University of Hawaii is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status, or disability. Applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities are encouraged.
Summary of the NSF funded FjordEco Project; PIs Craig Smith, Brian Powell, and Mark Merrifield (University of Hawaii at Manoa), Maria Vernet (Scripps Institution of Oceanography), and Peter Winsor and Martin Truffer (University of Alaska Fairbanks)
Fjord Ecosystem Structure and Function on the West Antarctic Peninsula - Hotspots of Productivity and Biodiversity? (FjordEco)
Marine communities along the western Antarctic Peninsula are highly productive ecosystems which support a diverse assemblage of charismatic animals such as penguins, seals, and whales as well as commercial fisheries such as that on Antarctic krill. Fjords (long, narrow, deep inlets of the sea between high cliffs) along the central coast of the Peninsula appear to be intense, potentially climate sensitive, hotspots of biological production and biodiversity, yet the structure and dynamics of these fjord ecosystems are very poorly understood. Because of this intense biological activity and the charismatic fauna it supports, these fjords are also major destinations for a large Antarctic tourism industry. This project is an integrated field and modeling program to evaluate physical oceanographic processes, glacial inputs, water column community dynamics, and seafloor bottom community structure and function in these important yet little understood fjord systems. These Antarctic fjords have characteristics that are substantially different from well-studied Arctic fjords, likely yielding much different responses to climate warming. This project will provide major new insights into the dynamics and climate sensitivity of Antarctic fjord ecosystems, highlighting contrasts with Arctic sub-polar fjords, and potentially transforming our understanding of the ecological role of fjords in the rapidly warming west Antarctic coastal marine landscape. The project will also further the NSF goal of training new generations of scientists, providing scientific training for undergraduate, graduate and posdoctoroal students. This includes the unique educational opportunity for undergraduates to participate in research cruises in Antarctica and the development of a novel summer graduate course on fjord ecosystems. Internet based outreach activities will be enhanced and extended by the participation of a professional photographer who will produce magazine articles, websites, radio broadcasts, and other forms of public outreach on the fascinating Antarctic ecosystem.
This project will involve a 15-month field program to test mechanistic hypotheses concerning oceanographic and glaciological forcing, and phytoplankton and benthic community response in the Antarctic fjords. Those efforts will be followed by a coupled physical/biological modeling effort study to evaluate the drivers of biogeochemical cycles in the fjords and to explore their potential sensitivity to enhanced meltwater and sediment inputs. Fieldwork over two oceanographic cruises will utilize moorings, weather stations, and glacial, sea-ice and seafloor time-lapse cameras to obtain an integrated view of fjord ecosystem processes. The field team will also make multiple shipboard measurements and will use towed and autonomous underwater vehicles to intensively evaluate fjord ecosystem structure and function during spring/summer and autumn seasons. These integrated field and modeling studies are expected to elucidate fundamental properties of water column and sea bottom ecosystem structure and function in the fjords, and to identify key physical-chemical-glaciological forcing in these rapidly warming ecosystems.
JIMAR Postdoctoral Research Fellowship available at UH
JIMAR POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW – ID# 15600. Joint Institute of Marine and Atmospheric Research. Regular, Full- Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR) located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws.
MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY: $3,837/Mon.
DUTIES: Conducts research in any of the following disciplines: fisheries science, marine biology, biological oceanography, ecosystem modeling, or physical/atmospheric sciences in relation to the environment and fisheries. Works collaboratively with faculty at the University of Hawaii’s School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) and with scientists at the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC). Co-authors manuscripts and scientific presentations describing area of research.
PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING: PhD from an accredited college or university in a related field of study.
EXPERIENCE: Up to one year (0-1) experience working in any of the following disciplines: fisheries science, marine biology, biological oceanography, ecosystem modeling, or physical/atmospheric sciences in relation to the environment and fisheries.
ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS: General oceanographic background. Previous authorship or co-authorship of publications in a related field of study. Good communication skills, both orally and in writing.
POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS: As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawaii's and/or business entity's policies and procedures. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).
INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru- Yoza 956-5018 (Oahu).
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on “Employment”; select “Apply” and navigate to “See Job Announcements and/or Apply for a Job.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawaii Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuhhr@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344. CLOSING DATE: November 5, 2015. EEO/AA Employer.
New Article: Adult and offspring size in the ocean
Preprint of our article exploring adult and offspring size in the ocean now available. Many thanks to the Centre for Ocean Life for an enjoyable and fruitful collaboration.
Congrats Lab Member Jennifer - Awarded 2015 ICES Best Early Career Scientist Presentation
This week, Jennifer Wong-Ala was awarded the Best Oral Presentation by an Early Career Scientist at the 2015 ICES Annual Science Conference for her talk 'The influence of life history variability on population connectivity: Development and application of a trait-based biophysical model of individuals'. Jennifer receives gift certificates for registration to the 2016 ICES ASC and €1000 towards ICES training programs. Congratulations Jenn!
Neuheimer Lab @ ICES ASC, Copenhagen
Jenn and Anna are in Copenhagen this week for the 2015 ICES' Annual Science Conference.
Jenn (here on full scholarship from JIMAR - Tak JIMAR!) will present on reef fish connectivity in Theme Session E on Tuesday, 22 September, 12:50 (room: Enghave Palds & Kødbyen):
The influence of life history variability on population connectivity: Development and application of a trait-based biophysical model of individuals. A.B. Neuheimer, J. Wong-Ala, B.S. Powell and M. Hixon.
Anna will present on adaptation of fish early life history across ocean basins in Theme Session S on Wednesday, 23 September, 11:15 (room: Hovedbanen):
Controlling factors in fish early life history and how they combine to influence trophic links across the North Atlantic Ocean. A. B. Neuheimer, Mark R. Payne and Brian R. MacKenzie.
Hope to see you in København!
Presentation @ CEES, University of Oslo
Anna will present on "How big and how many: Developing physiologically relevant modeling tools to explain fish size and abundance in a changing climate" at the Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, University of Oslo on Friday 18 September 2015 @ 14:15 (Seminar room 3508).
More information available here.
UH Oceanography @ 14th Deep-Sea Biology Symposium in Portugal
Safe travels to all those headed to DSBS in Portugal next week. Learn about seamount productivity with PhD Candidate Astrid Leitner's presentation:
Leitner AB, Neuheimer A, Drazen JC - Seamount induced primary productivity hotspots. (291)
Also, check out these talks by other UH Oceanography colleagues:
Amon DJ, Smith CR, Ziegler AF - Megafaunal community structure and biodiversity in the UK-1 claim area of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. (200)
Leitner AB, Drazen JC, Nunnally CC - Analysis of scavenging megafauna of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone using a baited camera. (201)
Choy CA, Popp BN, Drazen JC et al - Trophic structure and food resources of North Pacific midwater communities inferred from nitrogen isotopic compositions. (71)
Gerringer ME, Yancey PH, Davydov D, Drazen JC - Trends in metabolic enzyme activities and pressure- related changes in maximum reaction rate of lactase dehydrogenase in abyssal and hadal fishes. (89)
Nunnally CC, Drazen JC, Grammatopoulou E, Mayor DJ - Measurements of individual and community respiration rates using in situ respirometers in deep-sea trenches. (88)
Smith CR, Amon DJ, Drazen J et al - Nodule mining and ocean stewardship in the CCZ: An overview of the ABYSSLINE project with results on macrofaunal diversity and community structure. (9)
Smith CR, Grange LJ, Honig D et al - Antarctic fjord biodiversity hotspots, ecosystem function, and response to climate change – the FjordEco Project. (240)
Ziegler AF, Smith CR - The influence of ice-rafted debris on megabenthic diversity and community structure in fjords of the west Antarctic Peninsula. (39)
Ziegler AF, Amon DJ, Smith CR - A qualitative assessment of megafaunal diversity and biogeography of the UK-1 mining claim area within the CCZ. (236)
Lab member Chantel Chang heads to OSG User School
MSc Candidate Chantel Chang will head to the University of Wisconsin-Madison next week for OSG User School 2015 to learn about high-throughput computing systems. Safe travels Chantel!
New article: Characteristic Sizes of Life in the Oceans, from Bacteria to Whales
Preprint now available in Annual Review of Marine Biology:
