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Title: Fishes of the New England Seamounts.
Creator: Canache, Christian., Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Abstract/Description: Prior to 2000, very little was known about fish biodiversity on the New England Seamount chain. In late 2000, 115 fish species were found on Bear Seamount by the NOAA R/V "Delaware II." Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution conducted two cruises to explore the New England Seamount chain in 2003. This study assessed fish species throughout Alvin submersible dives during these 2003 cruises. Digital video footage was converted to still photographs and video clips using the Macintosh movie program...
Show morePrior to 2000, very little was known about fish biodiversity on the New England Seamount chain. In late 2000, 115 fish species were found on Bear Seamount by the NOAA R/V "Delaware II." Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution conducted two cruises to explore the New England Seamount chain in 2003. This study assessed fish species throughout Alvin submersible dives during these 2003 cruises. Digital video footage was converted to still photographs and video clips using the Macintosh movie program iMovie. Fishes were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level using keys and literature. The habitat, depth and behavior of observed fishes were compared to the literature available. Geographical distributions of the species were considered. I assessed substrate preference by building a chart that reflects the different sediment regimes that fishes were found on. In all I identified 317 individuals representing 33 different taxa, including two species with new habitat range information Neocyttus helgae and Lepidion sp.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/41003
Subject Headings: Seamounts, Ecology, Biodiversity conservation, Fishes, Conservation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Fishes of Savannas Preserve State Park.
Creator: McKee, Kristy., Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Abstract/Description: Freshwater marshes are a harsh wetland ecosystem classified by seasonal water level fluctuation. Dry down periods are common in some marshes, making life difficult for fish and other aquatic organisms. The goal of this study was to compile an updated species list of fishes inhabiting the freshwater marsh system within Savannas Preserve State Park. Twenty-three fish species were collected between August 2005 and May 2007. This survey, along with past collections, and the current species list...
Show moreFreshwater marshes are a harsh wetland ecosystem classified by seasonal water level fluctuation. Dry down periods are common in some marshes, making life difficult for fish and other aquatic organisms. The goal of this study was to compile an updated species list of fishes inhabiting the freshwater marsh system within Savannas Preserve State Park. Twenty-three fish species were collected between August 2005 and May 2007. This survey, along with past collections, and the current species list in the park's management plan were used to make a new proposed species list. Three species of nonnative fishes were observed during the study, the first report of exotic fishes in the park. It is believed that abnormally high water levels for an extended period may have allowed the water in neighboring canals to connect to the marsh system and, as a result, new species were able become introduced in the park.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/40970
Subject Headings: Savannas Preserve State Park (Fla.), Ecology, Fishes, Identification, Population biology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Influences of mosquito control impoundments on Rhizophora mangle initial propagule establishment and growth.
Creator: Coldren, Glenn A., Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Abstract/Description: Rotational Impoundment Management (RIM) is a commonly used method of mosquito control in Florida involving seasonal flooding during mosquito breeding season and allowances for natural tidal variations during summer flooding. My study looks at the effects of this impoundment strategy on the red mangrove, Rhizophora mangle L., recruitment. Primary productivity of mangroves in these impoundments has been found to be similar to that of natural areas, although nutrient levels have been found to...
Show moreRotational Impoundment Management (RIM) is a commonly used method of mosquito control in Florida involving seasonal flooding during mosquito breeding season and allowances for natural tidal variations during summer flooding. My study looks at the effects of this impoundment strategy on the red mangrove, Rhizophora mangle L., recruitment. Primary productivity of mangroves in these impoundments has been found to be similar to that of natural areas, although nutrient levels have been found to differ greatly. R. mangle is a completely viviparous species, and as such, maternal conditions have a strong effect on propagules. My study compares the initial establishment and growth of R. mangle propagules collected from and planted in both impounded and non-impounded sites.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/11618
Subject Headings: Red mangrove, Mangrove ecology, Wetland conservation, Mosquitos, Control
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effects of the cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula and artificial shading on the seagrass Halodule wrightii.
Creator: Tiling, Kathryn A., Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Abstract/Description: Extensive blooms of the marine cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula occurred during 2006 in Halodule wrightii seagrass beds. We examined the effects of L. majuscula blooms on seagrass by removal treatments and assessed if this was primarily an effect of shading by conducting artificial shade treatments. We tested the effects of L. majuscula removal and artificial shading on fifty individual 0.25 m2 experimental seagrass plots infested with L. majuscula in a fully crossed, two-way experiment....
Show moreExtensive blooms of the marine cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula occurred during 2006 in Halodule wrightii seagrass beds. We examined the effects of L. majuscula blooms on seagrass by removal treatments and assessed if this was primarily an effect of shading by conducting artificial shade treatments. We tested the effects of L. majuscula removal and artificial shading on fifty individual 0.25 m2 experimental seagrass plots infested with L. majuscula in a fully crossed, two-way experiment. Measurements included blade elongation, biomass, and stem density. Blade lengths of H. wrightii were significantly increased by the presence of artificial shading and L. majuscula. L. majuscula removal resulted in increased below ground biomass in shaded plots, suggesting an increase in stores, when possible, for accelerated recovery following a shading event. Adverse L. majuscula effects occurred after declines in bloom biomass indicating that L. majuscula can have a prolonged negative effect on H. wrightii production.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/11597
Subject Headings: Cyanobacteria, Biological control, Seagrasses, Physiology, Seagrasses, Effect of salt on, Restoration ecology, Halodule wrightii, Morphology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY OF CERCOPITHECUS LOMAMIENSIS IN THE LOMAMI NATIONAL PARK AND BUFFER ZONE, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO.
Creator: Korchia, Charlene S. Fournier, Detwiler, Kate M., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Biological Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: In 2012, a new monkey species, Cercopithecus lomamiensis (lesula), was discovered in the Central Congo basin. Lesula is a semi-terrestrial rainforest guenon endemic to the area. Using a systematic grid approach, three terrestrial camera trap surveys (two inside the Lomami National Park; one in the buffer zone) were conducted over three years to capture the cryptic species. The objectives of my study were to expand knowledge on the behavioral ecology of lesula and evaluate lesula’s sensitivity...
Show moreIn 2012, a new monkey species, Cercopithecus lomamiensis (lesula), was discovered in the Central Congo basin. Lesula is a semi-terrestrial rainforest guenon endemic to the area. Using a systematic grid approach, three terrestrial camera trap surveys (two inside the Lomami National Park; one in the buffer zone) were conducted over three years to capture the cryptic species. The objectives of my study were to expand knowledge on the behavioral ecology of lesula and evaluate lesula’s sensitivity to hunting threats. The main findings from my study included: confirmation of terrestriality and diurnality, births clustering during the wet season, social group living of one male and multiple females, and high impact of hunting on group size. By studying the latest added species to the Cercopithecini tribe, my thesis helps to better understand the ecological diversity occurring within this radiation of African primates and contributes to the species’ long-term conservation efforts.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013479
Subject Headings: Cercopithecus lomamiensis, Cercopithecus--Behavior--Africa, Congo (Democratic Republic), Behavioral ecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Beyond sustainability: justice and complex systems thinking for just sustainable viability.
Creator: Best, Andrea Leigh., Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters, Department of Philosophy
Abstract/Description: The dominant definitions of sustainability are too various and neglect essential elements necessary for effective sustainability discourse. This project considers what current understandings of sustainable development mean to those who subscribe to them and how those understandings affect public policy for sustainable development. I begin by presenting a timeline on the evolution of the term 'sustainability'. Then, I offer narrative policy analysis as a methodological tool for investigating...
Show moreThe dominant definitions of sustainability are too various and neglect essential elements necessary for effective sustainability discourse. This project considers what current understandings of sustainable development mean to those who subscribe to them and how those understandings affect public policy for sustainable development. I begin by presenting a timeline on the evolution of the term 'sustainability'. Then, I offer narrative policy analysis as a methodological tool for investigating communities of meaning with contending views on sustainability. This provides a foundation for the analysis of case studies using Harrisonian Sustainability Narratives-efficiency, equity, and ethics-as lenses through which three corresponding U.S. case studies are explored, each representing different levels of analysis-corporate, state, and individual. First, the Business Roundtable, a lobbying organization comprised of the CEOs of top U.S. companies exemplifying the efficiency narrative, claims that the problem of sustainable development can be addressed through free markets, which continually increase eco-efficiency and encourage technological advancement. Next, the Environmental Protection Agency, a state organization mandated to protect water and air and to manage toxic and solid wastes and representing the equity narrative, sees the problem of sustainable development as ensuring the just distribution of natural limits so as to reduce the impact of those limits on individuals within communities. Lastly, the ethical anthropology of Anna Peterson, philosopher of religion, points to the power of ethical narratives in creating wide-scale changes to our ideas about humanness and human nature as they relate to our relationship with our environment for sustainability., What I found in common with both the efficiency and equity narratives, representing both the political and corporate perspective and having significant influence on policy formation, is that they are pro market-based solutions of ecoefficiency and technological advancement. What they blatantly lack is guidance on what we ought to do, ought to value. I conclude that a humanist ethic is missing from both these narratives. Neither narrative sees matters of justice as co-equal partners with sustainability for sustainable development. Policy resulting from these narratives may offer efficiency and process but fails to include a robust humanist ethics necessary for a true sustainability. The way we think about our relationship to the environment shapes our behavior towards it. Just Sustainable Viability combines a complex systems approach that views human societies as complex adaptive systems and aims at optimizing social adaptive capacity with notions of distributive and procedural justice. With the inception of this new vision for sustainability, a new narrative must follow that firmly places humanity within the context of complex social and environmental systems.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/2684310
Subject Headings: System analysis, Policy sciences, Sustainable development, Social structure, Urban ecology (Sociology)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Biomonitoring of hypoxia and sulfide stress in three sub-tropical seagrasses.
Creator: Irwin, Connor., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Hypoxia and sulfide exposure, increased using glucose, are considered major environmental stressors in seagrass communities. Quantum efficiency, total soluble protein and catalase activity were quantified to evaluate the applicability of each of these bioindicators to detect environmental stress in three tropical seagrass species, Thalassia testudinum (Banks ex Kèoenig), Halodule wrightii (Ascherson) and Syringodium filiforme (Kuetz). Hypoxia + sulfide treatments significantly decreased the...
Show moreHypoxia and sulfide exposure, increased using glucose, are considered major environmental stressors in seagrass communities. Quantum efficiency, total soluble protein and catalase activity were quantified to evaluate the applicability of each of these bioindicators to detect environmental stress in three tropical seagrass species, Thalassia testudinum (Banks ex Kèoenig), Halodule wrightii (Ascherson) and Syringodium filiforme (Kuetz). Hypoxia + sulfide treatments significantly decreased the quantum efficiency of all three species, but showed no response in protein and catalase activity. Although no treatment effect was found, catalase activity was enhanced in T. testudinum leaves and H. wrightii roots relative to other tissues, while S. filiforme showed no location-specific catalase activity. These results indicate that quantum efficiency is a more sensitive indicator than protein and catalase activity to hypoxia and sulfide stress in seagrasses.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/2976445
Subject Headings: Plant physiology, Environmental management, Seagrasses, Habitat, Environmental aspects, Sulfites, Physiological effect, Marine ecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Charter School Closures in Florida, 2006-2016: A Population Ecology Perspective.
Creator: Jameson, Jorene, Nyhan, Ronald C., Florida Atlantic University, College for Design and Social Inquiry, School of Public Administration
Abstract/Description: As part of the education reforms of the 1990s, charter schools were proposed as a private alternative to public education, offering parents and their children greater choices. Publicly financed but privately operated, charter schools have now grown in numbers and influence. While there are many studies of student outcomes in charter schools demonstrating mixed results, one negative outcome of charter schools has been less examined. Since inception, 23% of charter schools nationally have...
Show moreAs part of the education reforms of the 1990s, charter schools were proposed as a private alternative to public education, offering parents and their children greater choices. Publicly financed but privately operated, charter schools have now grown in numbers and influence. While there are many studies of student outcomes in charter schools demonstrating mixed results, one negative outcome of charter schools has been less examined. Since inception, 23% of charter schools nationally have closed and these closures are disruptive to parents, children, and their school districts. This paper addresses charter school closures from an organizational perspective. Applying theory from population ecology and resource dependency theory, the population of nonprofit charter schools is examined. What are the primary determinants of charter school success and failure? Florida, with the third highest number of charter schools nationally and, at the same time, the highest number of charter school closures in the United States, is a paradox. This study identifies the significant variables that are related to school survival and failure in the state of Florida over the years 2015-16 through 2015-16. Variables tested in this study, using Survival Analysis (SA), include age, management structure, size, school performance, grants, and density. All variables except density at founding were significant in explaining the unique variance in survival rates among charters. Charter schools sub-contracted by for-profit educational management organizations (EMOs) were larger, achieved higher grades, secured more grants and achieved higher survival rates than their counterpart nonprofit, independent, and charter management organization (CMO) led schools. These results contribute to our understanding of charter school survival and failure, thereby informing public policy options to strengthen the charter school population and the nation’s public education system overall.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004982, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004972
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University, Charter schools--Florida., Population ecology., Public policy.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Coat Color Variation Between Red-tailed Monkeys (Cercopithecus ascanius), Blue Monkeys (C. mitis), and Hybrids (C. ascanius x C. mitis) in Gombe National Park, Tanzania.
Creator: Tapanes, Elizabeth, Detwiler, Kate M., Florida Atlantic University, Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters, Department of Anthropology
Abstract/Description: Cercopithecus monkeys are a species-rich radiation where interspecific mating leads to novel phenotypes due to pelage color and pattern diversity within the genus. The goals of this thesis were to (1) test a new method for studying color objectively in wild arboreal primates, and (2) apply a phenotypic hybrid index (PHI) to known individuals of a hybrid zone between C. ascanius and C. mitis in Gombe National Park, Tanzania through the use of digital photography. I scored seven pelage...
Show moreCercopithecus monkeys are a species-rich radiation where interspecific mating leads to novel phenotypes due to pelage color and pattern diversity within the genus. The goals of this thesis were to (1) test a new method for studying color objectively in wild arboreal primates, and (2) apply a phenotypic hybrid index (PHI) to known individuals of a hybrid zone between C. ascanius and C. mitis in Gombe National Park, Tanzania through the use of digital photography. I scored seven pelage character states as 0 (C. mitis), 0.25 (mitis-like), 0.50 (intermediate), 0.75 (ascanius-like), or 1 (C. ascanius). Photos indicate most phenotypic hybrids express a white nose spot, but all other regions of pelage color and pattern are variable, and an assortment of hybrid phenotypes are seen at Gombe. Results indicate it is currently not possible to extend parameters for assessing color objectively with RGB values, but numerical non-RGB methods show promise.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004636
Subject Headings: Gombe National Park (Tanzania), Chimpanzees -- Tanzania -- Gombe National Park., Red colobus monkey -- Ecology.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Deep-Water Biogenic Sediment off the Coast of Florida.
Creator: Zuccarelli, Claudio L., Oleinik, Anton E., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
Abstract/Description: Biogenic “oozes” are pelagic sediments that are composed of > 30% carbonate microfossils and are estimated to cover about 50% of the ocean floor, which accounts for about 67% of calcium carbonate in oceanic surface sediments worldwide. These deposits exhibit diverse assemblages of planktonic microfossils and contribute significantly to the overall sediment supply and function of Florida’s deep-water regions. However, the composition and distribution of biogenic sediment deposits along these...
Show moreBiogenic “oozes” are pelagic sediments that are composed of > 30% carbonate microfossils and are estimated to cover about 50% of the ocean floor, which accounts for about 67% of calcium carbonate in oceanic surface sediments worldwide. These deposits exhibit diverse assemblages of planktonic microfossils and contribute significantly to the overall sediment supply and function of Florida’s deep-water regions. However, the composition and distribution of biogenic sediment deposits along these regions remains poorly documented. Seafloor surface sediments have been collected in situ via Johnson- Sea-Link I submersible along four of Florida’s deep-water regions during a joint research cruise between Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) and Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Sedimentological analyses of the taxonomy, species diversity, and sedimentation dynamics reveal a complex interconnected development system of Florida’s deep-water habitats. Results disclose characteristic microfossil assemblages of planktonic foraminiferal ooze off the South West Florida Shelf, a foraminiferal-pteropod ooze through the Straits of Florida, and pteropod ooze deposits off Florida’s east coast. The distribution of the biogenic ooze deposits is attributed to factors such as oceanographic surface production, surface and bottom currents, off-bank transport, and deep-water sediment drifts. The application of micropaleontology, sedimentology, and oceanography facilitate in characterizing the sediment supply to Florida’s deep-water regions.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004857
Subject Headings: Marine sediments., Sediment transport., Deep-sea ecology., Ecosystem management., Micropaleontology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Dietary niche relationships of white ibis, tricolored heron and snowy egret nestlings in the northern Everglades.
Creator: Boyle, Robin A., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Food availability is the primary factor affecting the reproductive success in many species of birds. Diet composition can indicate diet quality, habitat use and niche requirements for breeding birds and may be variable across short and long-term time scales. Identifying primary prey types of nesting wading birds is important for the hydrologic restoration of wetlands. I collected nestling boluses during the 2008 and 2009 nesting seasons from three species of wading birds that nest in the...
Show moreFood availability is the primary factor affecting the reproductive success in many species of birds. Diet composition can indicate diet quality, habitat use and niche requirements for breeding birds and may be variable across short and long-term time scales. Identifying primary prey types of nesting wading birds is important for the hydrologic restoration of wetlands. I collected nestling boluses during the 2008 and 2009 nesting seasons from three species of wading birds that nest in the northern Everglades: White Ibis, Tricolored Herons and Snowy Egrets. White Ibis bolus composition was dominated by crayfish in both years, but exhibited some variation with landscape water depth in 2009; fish use was greatest when the wetland landscape was relatively dry. In contrast, the prey of Tricolored Herons and Snowy Egrets were primarily fish and their respective diets did not differ from one another in either fish species composition or size structure.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/2953207
Subject Headings: Wetland ecology, Bird populations, Water birds
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Constraints of landscape level prey availability on physiological condition and productivity of great egrets and white ibises in the Florida Everglades.
Creator: Herring, Garth, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Life history strategy suggests long lived bird species will adjust their nesting effort according to current conditions, balancing the costs of reproduction with their long-term needs for survival and future reproduction. The habitat conditions that produce these responses may differ between species, even within the same ecosystem, producing different nesting and population trends. I traced the pathway by which food availability influences the physiological condition of pre-breeding great...
Show moreLife history strategy suggests long lived bird species will adjust their nesting effort according to current conditions, balancing the costs of reproduction with their long-term needs for survival and future reproduction. The habitat conditions that produce these responses may differ between species, even within the same ecosystem, producing different nesting and population trends. I traced the pathway by which food availability influences the physiological condition of pre-breeding great egrets and white ibises through to reproductive measures, and the physiological condition of chicks. I focused on these two species with contrasting foraging strategies, in relation to foraging and habitat conditions to maximize the likelihood of application of these results to other wading bird species. Experimental food supplementation and physiology research on white ibis chicks demonstrated that in years with low prey availability white ibis were food limited, with increased levels of stress protein 60 and fecal corticosterone. This is the first study to demonstrate experimentally the response of stress protein 60 to changing levels of food availability. During a year with low prey availability (2007) white ibis adults and chick physiological condition was lower than that of great egrets. During the same year, fledging success was lower for both species (20% for white ibis versus 27% for great egret) but the magnitude of the decrease was particularly severe for the white ibis (76% decline versus 66% decline for the great egret). Results suggest white ibises modify their clutch size during years with poor habitat in accordance with life history traits of a long-lived species, whereas great egrets maintained their clutch size during years with poor habitat., Increasing recession rates, hydrological reversals, and prey densities influenced white ibis, whereas great egrets were most influenced by prey densities and recession rates, with no effect of hydrological reversal. During the same year, fledging success was lower for both species (20% for white ibis versus 27% for great egret) but the magnitude of the decrease was particularly severe for the white ibis (76% decline versus 66% decline for the great egret). Results suggest white ibises modify their clutch size during years with poor habitat in accordance with life history traits of a long-lived species, whereas great egrets maintained their clutch size during years with poor habitat. Increasing recession rates, hydrological reversals, and prey densities influenced white ibis, whereas great egrets were most influenced by prey densities and recession rates, with no effect of hydrological reversals. This study is the first to make the link between landscape hydrology patterns, prey availability, and responses in wading bird nesting. These linkages provide critical insight into how species' nesting patterns could differ given the same time and spatial constraints and how that may be related to long-term nesting trends. This knowledge could ultimately lead to novel predictions about population and community patterns of wetland birds.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/77643
Subject Headings: Bird populations, Water birds, Wetland ecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: EFFECTS OF NATURAL AND ANTHROPOGENIC IMPACTS ON THE MICROBIOME OF THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON, FL, USA.
Creator: Bradshaw II, David J., McCarthy, Peter J., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Biological Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) FL, USA, is an Estuary of National Significance due to its economic and high biodiversity. Microbial populations are understudied in the IRL despite their numerous ecological services. A two-year, nineteen-site Lagoon-Wide Survey (LWS) was conducted to provide the first 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing data on the microbiome of the sediment in the IRL and determine how the microbiome changed in response to environmental and anthropogenic factors. The most influential...
Show moreThe Indian River Lagoon (IRL) FL, USA, is an Estuary of National Significance due to its economic and high biodiversity. Microbial populations are understudied in the IRL despite their numerous ecological services. A two-year, nineteen-site Lagoon-Wide Survey (LWS) was conducted to provide the first 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing data on the microbiome of the sediment in the IRL and determine how the microbiome changed in response to environmental and anthropogenic factors. The most influential variables that explained the variability between microbiomes were porewater salinity, total organic matter (TOM), and copper (Cu). These results correlated with some of the anthropogenic pressures the IRL faces such as freshwater discharges from St. Lucie Estuary (SLE), trace metal contamination, and the accumulation of fine-grained, highly organic sediment known as “IRL muck” (muck). Research then focused on determining the microbial differences between three sets of sample types: sediment from the IRL versus the SLE; sediment that had three muck characteristics versus those with zero; and high TOM sediment that had high Cu versus high TOM sediment that had low Cu. Differentially abundant prokaryotes between sample types were determined with novel indicator analysis techniques. One technique tested the effectiveness of an indicator list to separate samples based upon the product of the sensitivity and specificity of partitioning around medoids clustering in comparison to metadata classifications. The other technique allowed for the tracking of changes in the entire indicator microbiome. These new indicator analysis techniques were created using the original LWS data and tested to determine how sediment microbiomes responded during two opportunistic surveys: dredging of muck from an IRL tributary (Eau Gallie River) and Hurricane Irma. These studies have filled the knowledge gap regarding the unknown microbiome of the IRL and how sediment microbiomes respond to extreme events such as dredging and a hurricane. They also led to the development of new indicator analysis techniques that can be used by to track changes in the entire indicator microbiome.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013446
Subject Headings: Indian River (Fla. : Lagoon), Microbiota, Anthropogenic effects on nature, Estuarine ecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Free Swimming Soft Robotic Jellyfish with Adaptive Depth Control.
Creator: Luvisi, Daniel, Engeberg, Erik, Florida Atlantic University, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering
Abstract/Description: This thesis is encompasses the design, construction, control and testing of an improvement upon the novel soft robotic Jennifish platform. The advancement of this platform includes the addition of light and depth sensors as well increasing the separation of tentacle groups from two to three sets. The final vehicle model consists nine PneuNetstyle actuators divided into three groups of three, molded around a machined Delrin pressure vessel. With a 12V submersible impellor pump connected to...
Show moreThis thesis is encompasses the design, construction, control and testing of an improvement upon the novel soft robotic Jennifish platform. The advancement of this platform includes the addition of light and depth sensors as well increasing the separation of tentacle groups from two to three sets. The final vehicle model consists nine PneuNetstyle actuators divided into three groups of three, molded around a machined Delrin pressure vessel. With a 12V submersible impellor pump connected to each actuator grouping, propulsion is created by the filling and emptying of these tentacles with surrounding ambient water. The Jellyfish2.0 is capable of omnidirectional lateral movement as well as upward driven motion. The vehicle also has a temperature sensor and IMU as did the previous of this platform. Qualitative free-swimming testing was conducted, recorded and analyzed as well as quantitative inline load cell testing, to create a benchmark for comparison with other jellyfish like robots.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013234
Subject Headings: Robotics--Design and construction, Soft robotics, Coral reef ecology, Coral reef monitoring
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Increasing Integrity in Sea-Level Rise Impact Assessment on Florida’s Coastal Everglades.
Creator: Cooper, Hannah M., Zhang, Caiyun, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
Abstract/Description: Over drainage due to water management practices, abundance of native and rare species, and low-lying topography makes the coastal Everglades especially vulnerable to Sea-Level Rise (SLR). Water depths have shown to have a significant relationship to vegetation community composition and organization while also playing a crucial role in vegetation health throughout the Everglades. Modeling potential habitat change and loss caused by increased water depths due to SLR requires better vertical...
Show moreOver drainage due to water management practices, abundance of native and rare species, and low-lying topography makes the coastal Everglades especially vulnerable to Sea-Level Rise (SLR). Water depths have shown to have a significant relationship to vegetation community composition and organization while also playing a crucial role in vegetation health throughout the Everglades. Modeling potential habitat change and loss caused by increased water depths due to SLR requires better vertical Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and Water Table Elevation Models (WTEMs). In this study, an object-based machine learning approach was developed to correct LiDAR elevation data by integrating LiDAR point data, aerial imagery, Real Time Kinematic (RTK)-Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and total station survey data. Four machine learning modeling techniques were compared with the commonly used bias-corrected technique, including Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), k-Nearest Neighbor (k-NN), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The k-NN and RF models produced the best predictions for the Nine Mile and Flamingo study areas (RMSE = 0.08 m and 0.10 m, respectively). This study also examined four interpolation-based methods along with the RF, SVM and k-NN machine learning techniques for generating WTEMs. The RF models achieved the best results for the dry season (RMSE = 0.06 m) and the wet season (RMSE = 0.07 m) WTEMs. Previous research in Water Depth Model (WDM) generation in the Everglades focused on a conventional-based approach where a DEM is subtracted from a WTEM. This study extends the conventional-based WDM approach to a rigorous-based WDM technique where Monte Carlo simulation is used to propagate probability distributions through the proposed SLR depth model using uncertainties in the RF-based LiDAR DEM and WTEMs, vertical datums and transformations, regional SLR and soil accretion rates. It is concluded that a more rigorous-based WDM technique increases the integrity of derived products used to support and guide coastal restoration managers and planners concerned with habitat change under the challenge of SLR. Future research will be dedicated to the extension of this technique to model both increased water depths and saltwater intrusion due to SLR (saltwater inundation).
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005991
Subject Headings: Everglades (Fla.), Sea level rise, Coastal ecology--Florida, Everglades (Fla)--Environmental conditions, Impact assessment
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Ocean Acidification Effects on Photosynthesis in Tropical Marine Macroalgae.
Creator: Zweng, Regina C., Koch, Marguerite, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Field data from CO2 vents, a current model of future ocean acidification conditions, show a positive correlation between elevated seawater pCO2 and fleshy macroalgal abundance, as well as a negative correlation between elevated seawater pCO2 and calcareous macroalgal abundance on coral reefs. One underlying physiological mechanism for increases of fleshy macroalgae species in response to greater pCO2 could be an increase in their photosynthesis. Furthermore, inorganic carbon use mechanisms,...
Show moreField data from CO2 vents, a current model of future ocean acidification conditions, show a positive correlation between elevated seawater pCO2 and fleshy macroalgal abundance, as well as a negative correlation between elevated seawater pCO2 and calcareous macroalgal abundance on coral reefs. One underlying physiological mechanism for increases of fleshy macroalgae species in response to greater pCO2 could be an increase in their photosynthesis. Furthermore, inorganic carbon use mechanisms, irradiance and depth may influence species-specific responses to ocean acidification. Therefore, this thesis aimed to discern carbon use strategies and photosynthetic responses to elevated pCO2 of dominant tropical fleshy and calcareous macroalgae. All species studied were able to utilize HCO3 - for photosynthesis. 33% of calcifying macroalgae and 80% of fleshy macroalgae had increased photosynthetic rates in response to lower pH. Thus, future conditions of OA may perpetuate or exacerbate the abundance of fleshy seaweeds at the expense of calcareous species.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004879, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004879
Subject Headings: Marine algae--Ecophysiology., Algal communities--Monitoriing., Coral reef ecology.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Movement and Habitat Use of Whitespotted Eagle Rays, Aetobatus narinari, throughout Florida.
Creator: DeGroot, Breanna Clarice, Ajemian, Matthew, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Elasmobranchs play ecologically important roles in coastal environments. Unfortunately, the basic distribution and movement patterns of these species, particularly rays, remain relatively unknown. This is especially true for the Whitespotted Eagle Ray (Aetobatus narinari), a protected species in Florida with poorly described migratory and habitat use patterns. I employed a combination of acoustic telemetry techniques to reveal multi-scale spatial patterns of A. narinari around Florida....
Show moreElasmobranchs play ecologically important roles in coastal environments. Unfortunately, the basic distribution and movement patterns of these species, particularly rays, remain relatively unknown. This is especially true for the Whitespotted Eagle Ray (Aetobatus narinari), a protected species in Florida with poorly described migratory and habitat use patterns. I employed a combination of acoustic telemetry techniques to reveal multi-scale spatial patterns of A. narinari around Florida. Movement patterns between the east and west coast individuals were distinct; a majority of west coast tagged A. narinari exhibited migratory or transient behavior while most east coast tagged individuals remained resident in the Indian River Lagoon. Fine-scale tracking of A. narinari revealed individuals spent a large percentage of time in the inlets and channels and frequently reused habitats parallel to the shore. This study fills a knowledge gap on the species ecology which may be used for adaptive management strategies throughout A. narinari’s range.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013116
Subject Headings: Aetobatus narinari, Spotted eagle ray, Chondrichthyes--Ecology, Elasmobranchs, Biotelemetry, Acoustic telemetry
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Plant and ant communities in the northern Everglades.
Creator: Carroll, Camille Darby., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Environmental Studies Program
Abstract/Description: I examined the impact of the exotic, invasive plant Old World climbing fern, Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R. Brown, on tree island plant and ant communities in the northern Everglades. I selected 15 tree islands representing four groups: non-Lygodium islands, islands with low levels of Lygodium, islands with high levels of Lygodium, and disturbed islands impacted by people. I used a variety of diversity indices to compare plant and ant data among habitats. The ant communities studied included...
Show moreI examined the impact of the exotic, invasive plant Old World climbing fern, Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R. Brown, on tree island plant and ant communities in the northern Everglades. I selected 15 tree islands representing four groups: non-Lygodium islands, islands with low levels of Lygodium, islands with high levels of Lygodium, and disturbed islands impacted by people. I used a variety of diversity indices to compare plant and ant data among habitats. The ant communities studied included native and exotic species typical of south Florida. Tree island plant communities were consistent with descriptions from previous studies. Plant species richness decreased with the level of L. microphyllum in the ground and midstory layers. Abundance of native plants decreased with level of L. microphyllum in the ground, midstory, and overstory layers. Lygodium microphyllum did not affect ant communities suggesting that although it negatively impacts plant communities it can provide habitat for ants.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/186675
Subject Headings: Insect-plant relationships, Ants, Ecology, Wildlife conservation, Environmental conditions
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Prevalence of antibiotic resistant commensal bacteria in endangered avian species.
Creator: Efstathion, Caroline Ann, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: This study examines prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in Amazon parrots in three different groups, one wild and two captive. Commensal bacteria were isolated from 24 parrots and screened for antibiotic resistance. Culture-based and molecular methods were used and a total of 546 isolates from the genus Staphylococcus and Rothia were obtained. Antibiotic resistance was found in all parrot groups in 161 isolates with 48 having multi-drug resistance. The highest frequency of resistance...
Show moreThis study examines prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in Amazon parrots in three different groups, one wild and two captive. Commensal bacteria were isolated from 24 parrots and screened for antibiotic resistance. Culture-based and molecular methods were used and a total of 546 isolates from the genus Staphylococcus and Rothia were obtained. Antibiotic resistance was found in all parrot groups in 161 isolates with 48 having multi-drug resistance. The highest frequency of resistance was found to Enrofloxacin and Amoxicillin/Clavulnate though all antibiotics tested were resisted by some bacterial isolates. Both captive groups exhibited more resistant individuals than the wild. This study concluded that antibiotic resistant commensal bacteria in Amazons are common; however, patterns found cannot be explained by antibiotic use. A high rate of multi-drug resistance was detected in more common mannitol non-fermenting Staphylococcus spp., and drug resistant detected in Rothia spp. may indicate a future role in disease.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3170956
Subject Headings: Parrots, Drug resistance in microoganisms, Wildlife conservation, Host-bacteria relationship, Microbial ecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The cascading impacts of vegetation on peat soil properties and crayfish survival in the Florida everglades.
Creator: Chapman, Alexander, Benscoter, Brian, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Changes in vegetation may influence the quality and quantity of the underlying organic peat soils and have impacts on faunal populations. My goal was to determine whether shifts from native slough communities to invasive cattail in the Florida Everglades could affect peat characteristics that could cascade to impact the dry season survival of crayfish (Procambarus fallax). I contrasted peat soils from native slough and cattail-invaded sites as alternative dry-season burrowing substrates for...
Show moreChanges in vegetation may influence the quality and quantity of the underlying organic peat soils and have impacts on faunal populations. My goal was to determine whether shifts from native slough communities to invasive cattail in the Florida Everglades could affect peat characteristics that could cascade to impact the dry season survival of crayfish (Procambarus fallax). I contrasted peat soils from native slough and cattail-invaded sites as alternative dry-season burrowing substrates for crayfish. Cattail peat had higher average bulk density and inorganic content within the first ten centimeters of the soil profile. Crayfish showed marginally greater initial burrowing success in slough peat than in cattail peat but survival was equivalent in both peat soils and high overall. Understanding these indirect linkages between vegetation and crayfish populations in the Everglades can provide insight on the consequences of plant invasion on ecosystem trophic dynamics.
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Date Issued: 2014
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004091, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004091
Subject Headings: Crayfish (Ecology), Ecosystem management, Everglades National Park (Fla.), Vegetation dynamics -- Florida -- Everglades National Park
Format: Document (PDF)

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