Long Island, New York, USA

The MarineGEO Shinnecock Bay Observatory is housed within the Peterson Community Ecology Lab at Stony Brook University and focuses on the rich marine habitats and species interactions found in the coastal waters of Long Island, New York. The sheltered bays of the south shore play host to numerous eelgrass and oyster beds – the perfect habitat for juvenile fish and shellfish to thrive. But dual threats of climate change and rapid urbanization of the landscape are leading to declines in these key ecosystems. The Peterson Lab and its partners are looking at how the resulting fragmented habitats are utilized by local species, and how they can best be restored. Currently, we are using acoustic telemetry to track shark and fish populations, and their interactions with artificial reef substrate. We are investigating rates of carbon sequestration by native seagrass beds and examining thermal tolerance of eelgrass across its latitudinal range. Collaborations with local aquaculture groups and restoration programs have helped to protect the successes of clam spawner sanctuaries and oyster farming efforts.

MarineGEO Team

  • Principal Investigator: Dr. Bradley Peterson
  • Supports MarineGEO Work: Jonah Morreale, Lucas Wong, Stephen Heck, and Anthony Murphy-Neilson

Participating Institutions

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