Ecology - Urchin Population Dynamics
A large-scale ecological shift is occurring along the central coast of California. Recent changes in the abundance and grazing behavior of purple sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) has shifted a kelp forest that has persisted for decades to a landscape now comprised of a mosaic of urchin barren-kelp forest habitats.
Regional Networking
The vitality of CENSUS comes from students (high school, undergraduate, and graduate) and faculty within and across institutions around the Monterey Bay. As a network between UC Santa Cruz and three Monterey Bay area campuses, we collaboratively monitor sea urchin recruitment from municipal wharfs and piers by engaging high school students, undergraduates, and graduate students, which provides a platform for next generation scientists and upcoming professionals to apply their academic training to real-world research.
Oceanography - Current Models
Oceanographic models that estimate the direction and speed of ocean currents can both explain and predict the destination of larvae. We can use models to explain the observed destinations of larvae determined by settlement collectors deployed from piers and wharfs to predict the destination of larvae.