| Communications and Development |  |
Published by Communications and Development
The University of Canterbury's Marine Ecology Research Group has received significant funding in an aquatic research package announced by the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology (FRST).
Professor David Schiel and his team of researchers will be an integral part of the coasts and oceans programme led by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA).
The programme, worth almost $60 million over 12 years, seeks to understand all the factors that influence the health and productivity of New Zealand's oceans. It is a world first in bringing together experts in climate, oceanography, animal ecology, remote sensing, fisheries, social science and economics.
Professor Schiel says UC researchers will work primarily on the ecology of rocky coastlines, its interactions with other components of the marine ecosystems, and the factors that affect its communities, productivity and health.
"The emphasis is on research that will lead to sustainable management of the coastlines of New Zealand. University researchers will continue their productive collaboration with NIWA in large, multidisciplinary marine research and work closely with coastal managers to maximise the benefits of this research."
In a separately funded project, the Marine Ecology Research Group is to receive more than $1 million over four years to research the environmental pathways from streams to the open ocean used by native fish, such as whitebait.
Dr Mike Hickford will map the critical components of habitats that native fish need to complete their life cycles, from eggs, larvae and adults.
"By understanding the linkages between rivers, estuaries and coastal habitats, this research will provide essential knowledge for effective management," says Professor Schiel.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Science), Professor Ian Shaw, says the funding announcement is excellent news.
"The oceans are crucial to New Zealand's economy and their wellbeing is a key facet of the College of Science research focus. The new FRST funding to support our work in this area will allow us to significantly grow our world leading marine research."
For further information please contact:
John MacDonald
Communications Manager
University of Canterbury
Tel: +64-3-364 2910
Fax: +64-3-364 2679
Mob: +64-27-441 7280