Kenneth Dunton, PhD
|
Marine GEO Texas Advisory Board Member
Professor University of Texas Marine Science Institute Ken.dunton@utexas.edu 361-749-6744 UTMSI Profile |
|
Dr. Dunton's research program is focused on coastal ecosystem processes and aquatic plant physiological ecology.
Coastal Ecosystem Processes: Coastal marine systems, from tropical to polar latitudes, play critical roles in the global cycling of carbon, habitats for commercially important species of fish and shellfish, and as a hydrological link between terrestrial and oceanic environments. Research in Dunton’s Lab evaluates aspects of ecosystem resilience, in particular how changes in regional climate are redefining plant species composition, carbon storage, and benthic community structure. A strong research focus is how the transfer of carbon to the benthos affects the food web structure of our lagoons, bays, and estuaries. We use stable isotopic signatures to identify the major sources of organic carbon that are assimilated by consumers and look for patterns of dependence across broad geospatial scales. Aquatic Plant Physiological Ecology: Aquatic plants, including seaweeds (especially kelp), seagrasses, and emergent vascular plants all make major contributions to ecosystem productivity. Environmental factors (e.g. light, temperature, inorganic-C) play a significant role in regulating rates of carbon fixation, carbon storage, and ultimately, plant biomass. Our lab is particularly interested in the light and nutrient requirements for photosynthesis and growth and how environmental stressors regulate the overall productivity and distribution of these foundation species. |
