Marine Ecology & Ocean Health Lab

Our research focuses on the early life stages of fish and addresses key ecological and environmental questions related to ocean health. We investigate how pollution affects fish larval orientation, behavior, and population connectivity. We also assess the risks posed by gas and oil pollution events in the eastern Mediterranean to natural assets, such as marine protected areas, and to critical infrastructure, including desalination facilities. By integrating advanced modeling, field studies, and laboratory-based behavioral experiments, we aim to understand how fish larvae move, respond to environmental stressors, and survive in the marine environment.