Research themes within the research area Coastal Ecology.
Lower trophic species aquaculture
The research in lower trophic species (LTA) is based on DTU Aqua’s hatchery and grow-out facilities for mussels, oysters, lobsters, seaweed, etc. and includes all aspects of production from the hatching of larvae/spores to grow-out methods and environmental effects. The research area also includes the use of LTA species like mussels and seaweed as measures to mitigate effects of eutrophication and as part of nature restoration.
Blue biomass
Blue biomass and new marine protein sources include development of fisheries or harvest of e.g. starfish and invasive species for human consumption, as a feed ingredient or for the extraction of valuable minerals and substances. We focus primarily on the development of fishing or harvesting methods and not so much on processing.
Anthropogenic pressures in the coastal zone
We investigate the effects of anthropogenic pressures on coastal ecosystems and habitats. The most important anthropogenic pressure factors in the coastal zone are eutrophication and climate change, but site-specific pressure factors such as fishing, dredging and raw material extraction are also important in a stressed coastal environment. We examine impacts of anthropogenic pressures using various scientific tools, including dynamic modeling.
Marine habitats in the coastal zone
We study structure and function of coastal habitats with focus on their function as biodiversity hotspot and nursing ground and habitat for fish, shellfish and seaweed. Restoration of habitats in marine areas is a new research area in which Coastal Ecology participates. DTU Aqua develops methods for re-establishing both biogenic reefs and stone reefs on the basis of our knowledge of ecosystems. We have a special field of research in the mechanisms affecting fish stocks in the coastal zone.
Invasive species
The research area Coastal Ecology has the overall responsibility for DTU Aqua's efforts regarding invasive species, although other research areas are also involved. Coastal Ecology focuses on combating invasive species based on utilizing them sustainably as protein sources. We also study the spread of invasive species with special focus on invertebrates and seaweed species and through the use of agent-based modeling.
Learn more
Read more about our research into coastal ecology at coast.dtu.dk