Distance Learning - Chat with Phaedra Hernandez

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Scientist Phaedra explains her work below:

"I study coral reef communities and am trying to understand how the benthic community changes over depth. To study this, we use photogrammetry to create detailed 3D models of the reef that we can explore later behind the comfort of our computers, which is incredibly helpful since time underwater is always limited when diving. Corals receive a special focus, particularly in the deeper sections of the reef called the Mesophotic Zone. We take very small coral samples to study their genetics, gaining insight into the diversity of coral communities and how this diversity compares to the shallow communities. In addition, we are using submersibles to explore reef environments even deeper than we can reach when diving (down to ~650 feet!) allowing us to see how these communities change when light almost completely fades."

Caribbean coral reefs:

Scientist Phaedra grew up on the Caribbean island of Curacao. Learn more about Caribbean coral reefs by watching this video: Our Backyard in the Deep

Some vocabulary:

Ecosystem services are the benefits, often taken for granted, that humans receive from a healthy natural environment. This includes clean air, fresh water, food, medicine, and non-material benefits such as recreation and spiritual inspiration. They also include services that are basic processes such as soil formation, nutrient cycling and photosynthesis. It is important to understand ecosystem services, because they highlight the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect natural spaces.

Blue careers focus on conserving and restoring marine, coastal and aquatic ecosystems, in addition to protecting communities that live there. They are purpose-driven, allowing a means to address the climate crisis. These careers span many interests, including science, engineering, technology, policy, education, art and more.

Mesophotic Zone is the “twilight zone” of the ocean, located between 100 and 500 feet below the surface. It starts just below conventional scuba diving limits, and acts as a bridge between the sunlit shallow reefs and the deep, dark ocean. Because it is hard to reach, it is largely unexplored, and home to unique corals, sponges and fish. Because of its depth and cooler temperatures, the mesophotic zone may be less affected by surface storms and rising water temperatures caused by climate change.

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