Investigating the role of population patchiness in invasion success of zooplankton

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Biological invasions, where non-native species are introduced to locations beyond their natural range, are occurring globally with unintended negative impacts to the ecology and economy of the invaded habitat. In order to prevent new invasions, we need to have a better understanding of the way that an introduced species interacts with the new habitat. My Discovery Grant research will focus on the interaction of zooplankton (microscopic aquatic animals) with habitats in the Great Lakes, with a long term goal of preventing new invasions of zooplankton. Over the next 5-year cycle we will see if a combination of physical habitat factors, such as current speed and temperature, are consistently linked to high density populations of zooplankton, and if high density populations are consistently linked to invasion success. This research will allow us to test the hypothesis that invasion success of zooplankton in the Great Lakes can be predicted on a site-specific basis and will provide insight for better prevention programs to protect this valuable ecosystem.