UUNIOZ_Turning the tide

Identifying the drivers and main threats of reef microbialization by multi-meta’omics modelling

Coastal ecosystems worldwide are changing due to increased anthropogenic disturbances such as nutrient runoff. In coral reefs these phase shifts are characterized by higher abundances of copiotrophic and pathogenic bacteria, creating a feedback loop of ecosystem degradation known as reef microbialization. We previously showed that reef microbialization threatens three of five ocean basins, showing that it is a worldwide threat to marine biodiversity and ocean health. We employ an integrative model combining bottom up and top down controls on the microbial community to understand the structuring mechanisms behind reef microbialization with the aim of identifying potential intervention strategies.

Joint research

This project is part of the joint research of Utrecht University and the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research concerning the functioning of (coastal) seas and oceans.  Pairs of scienists will carry out interdisciplinary research into pressing scientific and societal issues that tie in with the strategic themes of both organisations. In addition to the Faculties of Science and Geosciences, also the Faculties of Law, Economics and Governance, and Veterinary Medicine of the UU are involved. The projects are part of the agreement to intensify the collaboration UU-NIOZ (2016-2025), funded by UU.

Project information

Research leaders 
Dr. Andreas F. Haas (NIOZ)
Dr. Bas E. Dulith (Utrecht University)

Theme 
Sustainable functioning of Coastal and Shelf Seas
Ocean of Discovery

UU-NIOZ project page
For more information on this project and other UU-NIOZ projects, visit the joint UU-NIOZ project page 

Meet the team
Below you find the NIOZ employee(s) working in this team. For a complete overview including Utrecht University team members visit the joint UU-NIOZ project page