Harmful Phytoplankton Blooms in Buzzards Bay, MA

Summary

The project will expand the 30-year data collection record ofphytoplankton abundance and community compositionin Buzzards Bay (Mass.).  The extended program will focus on patterns of appearance and abundance of harmful phytoplankton species in relation to those of other phytoplankton species that may utilize different nutrients and hydrographic niches. The research may provide the state agency responsible for ensuring the safe harvest of shellfish with new management approaches to predicting and dealing with these harmful blooms.