PROJECT HIGHLIGHT
This project investigated four key factors contributing to the decline of two critical molluscan foundation species in Southern California while training undergraduate students in advanced research methods.
PROJECT SUMMARY
Foundation species build habitats that benefit other organisms — such as reefs — and are vital to healthy ecosystems. Many important marine systems are reliant on foundation species that are sensitive to warming temperatures, presenting an increasing threat to marine biodiversity. Two molluscan foundation species were already declining in Southern California: the California mussel (Mytilus californianus) and the Olympia oyster (Ostrea lurida). Both species can form dense beds that support diverse ecosystems and both are popular for human consumption.
This project provided advanced research opportunities for students at California State University Fullerton while addressing critical conservation questions. The research focused on four potential factors in the decline — as well as the potential restoration success — of M. californianus and O. lurida: sedimentation, thermal stress, threats from non-indigenous species and collection/harvesting. Students in the Burnaford lab participated in long-term monitoring of M. californianus through the Multi-agency Rocky Intertidal Network (MARINe), while students in the Zacherl lab continued oyster monitoring that started in Southern California in 2005.
Throughout the project's duration, the team developed a formalized mentoring program that engaged 10 students in original research, with funding directly supporting six trainees (four undergraduate and two graduate students) while attracting four additional undergraduate students to the principal investigator labs. The research contributions were recognized through awards, including one undergraduate student earning recognition for their work and one graduate student receiving a prestigious award from the California State University Council on Ocean Affairs Science and Technology (CSU COAST) for their mentoring contributions. With data on what contributes to declines and successes in these two important foundation species, managers in Southern California and beyond can now create more effective conservation and restoration strategies.