2006 Project Summaries
Project Summary for 2006-03-01: Role of sponges in N cycling on coral reefs
We intend to investigate the role of sponges in nitrogen cycling on coral reefs. We will quantify the flux of dissolved inorganic nitrogen from sponges using a combination of in situ and laboratory methods, and we will survey sponge biomass on Conch Reef. Furthermore, we will determine whether nitrogen fixation and/or denitrification are occuring in sponge-associated microbial communities.
Objectives:
- Obtain samples of sponge excurrent water for analysis of the NO3. This isotopic composition analysis will allow us to differentiate between upwelled NO3 and sponge-produced nitrate.
- Complete DIN flux measurements begun in Summer 2005 (which were interrupted by Katrina).
- Collect sponge tissue samples for pigment and molecular biology work.
- Monitoring and research projects that specifically identify factors responsible for causing direct and indirect effects of coral decline. For example, how much coral is killed by coral bleaching, disease, and other factors.
Tasks:
- Perform re-survey of sponge biomass on Conch Reef (post-hurricane comparison).
- Collect sponge excurrent water at Conch Reef.
- Collect sponge tissue samples at Conch Reef.
- Measure sponge pumping rates.