Home page: http://web.uvic.ca/~yahel/
Research Interests
The diverse processes that link the seafloor to the overlying ocean range from feeding mechanisms of individual suspension feeders such as sponges and bivalves through the behavior pattern of ground fish and migratory zooplankton to the interplay between hydrodynamics and the benthos (the bottom of the sea). Fieldwork and the development of new methods for underwater studies are major themes in my work.
Current research:
Nutritional ecology of suspension feeders
Capturing particles suspended in the water is a unique feeding strategy for aquatic animals. My studies focus on measuring the metabolism, diet composition, feeding preferences, and feeding rates of marine suspension feeders. I am particularly interested in developing underwater (in situ) methods which facilitate the study of undisturbed animals in their natural environment. Read more...
Sediment resuspension by fish
Benthic (ground) fish resuspend large amount of sediments while foraging and seeking for shelter. We discovered that fish activity alone could maintain a layer of turbid water near the bottom (nepheloid benthic layer), enhance the transport of nutrients and benthic oxygen demand, and considerably reduce organic carbon sequestration. Currently, we are developing tools that will allows us to quantify these processes and understand their effects in different marine habitats. Read more...
Benthic-pelagic coupling
Benthic organisms are dependent on hydrodynamics and other processes at the water column for every aspect of their life history. In many cases, the activity of benthic communities can also control water column processes. We are using a variety of methods to quantify these process in the field. Read more... |
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