Phycology
The Phycology Department focus on the ecology and taxonomy of algae, particularly diatoms. Our research looks at how algal assemblages are distributed and how environmental factors influence their occurrence and distribution. We are particularly interested in applying knowledge of algal ecology to the assessment of a wide range of environmental issues, primarily those related to water quality of rivers, lakes and estuaries.
Our research spans from large, national surveys to localized watershed assessments within a state or region.
Algae are very diverse, live in a wide variety of habitats, and have specific ecological requirements, making them excellent bioindicators of water quality. Diatoms have a long history of use in ecological assessment around the world. Dr. Ruth Patrick, founder of the Patrick Center, performed important pioneering research on use of diatoms for biomonitoring starting in the 1940s.
In the Field
What is Phycology?
Phycology is the study of algae. Algae are aquatic, photosynthetic organisms that are very important primary producers (convert sunlight into energy) for different fresh and marine habitats, such as streams, lakes, and even the ocean.
Different types of algae come in a range of different forms and sizes. They can be very large, like meters-long giant kelp that is found in the ocean, down to microscopic individual organisms, such as diatoms. Diatoms are single-celled algae that have intricate and beautiful cell walls made of silica (glass).
Why are Algae important?
Algae provide multiple benefits to aquatic ecosystem health, aquatic organisms, and humans!
Algae are at the base of the food web, providing a very important food source for many aquatic organisms such as fish and macroinvertebrates (small aquatic animals and insects). They are also primary producers, meaning they convert sunlight into energy. This means they produce oxygen that is used not only by other aquatic life, but by humans, too. Algae are estimated to produce about 50% of the oxygen we breathe.
Algae are typically the first organisms in the food web to respond to changes in their environment, such as increased or decreased temperature, pollution events, or high flow rates due to storms. Because they are so responsive to environmental conditions, we can use them as “bioindicators” of aquatic health. Bioindicators are groups of organisms that help tell us about the quality (health) of an ecosystem.
What does the Phycology Section do?
The Phycology Section focuses on the ecology and taxonomy (identification and naming) of algae, particularly diatoms.
Our studies look at how algal taxa (species) are distributed and how environmental and human factors influence their distribution and ecology. We are particularly interested in studying the relationship algal ecology has with water quality and applying that knowledge to better manage different environmental issues. We also work with state, local, and national agencies to further understand the role algae plays in aquatic health in order to improve water quality management practices.
Mariena Hurley
Department Head, Phycology
Don Charles, PhD
Senior Advisor
Diane Winter
Diatom Taxonomist