Project Page

The Effect of Sediment Bioturbators on the Biological Degradation of Petroleum in Coastal Ecosystems

Implementing Organization

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Overview

DWH Project Funding

$1,025,090

Known Leveraged Funding

$0

Funding Organization

Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative (GoMRI)

Funding Program

Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative GoMRI Grant Program

Details

Project Category

Science

Project Actions

Chemical Aspects Research

Targeted Resources

Human and/or Institutional Capacity

Project Description

The fate and biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons and dispersant in sediments of coastal ecosystems can be influenced significantly by the presence of organisms inhabiting the sediment. This is especially so for benthic animals that are active bioturbators. Effectively serving as ecosystem engineers, they greatly modify physical and chemical conditions in the sediment.

Contact

Paul L. Klerks
337-482-6356
klerks@louisiana.edu
Project Website
Project Partners

None

Affiliated Institutions

None

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