Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. At the heart of these vibrant ecosystems, symbiotic corals play a central role as primary engineers. Over millions of years, diverse coral species have developed unique symbiotic relationships, morphological variations, and photoacclimation abilities that allow them to thrive under specific marine conditions. My research focuses on exploring these interactions to understand the adaptive strategies that drive niche partitioning in tropical corals.
One of my research goals is to explore the repercussions of the obligatory coral-algae symbiosis at the population and community levels. The unique dependence between photosynthetic zooxanthellae and their coral hosts makes tropical corals an intriguing model for studying the relationships between environmental gradients, photosynthetic productivity, morphology, and the distribution and abundance of coral species. By unraveling these complex interactions, I aim to enhance our understanding of the factors that shape biodiversity patterns, coral community structure, and population dynamics.
One of my primary research goals is to delve into the impacts of climate change and water pollution on corals and coral reef communities. Specifically, I focus on the degradation of water optical properties caused by sedimentation and anthropogenic pollution. Through collaboration with my colleagues, our studies have shown that the gradual decline in water optical quality has a significant impact on corals' physiology and compromises their ability to construct and sustain reefs. By shedding light on these impacts, my research aims to contribute to the conservation efforts of coral reefs in the face of climate and environmental challenges.
Beyond my research, I provide technical support to international cooperation initiatives from a governmental perspective, helping to develop and implement environmental policies and projects that promote the restoration, conservation, and sustainable management of marine ecosystems. I advocate for integrated strategies that bring together scientific research, policy development, and community engagement to build effective frameworks for marine conservation and restoration.