Research Projects Ocean Influx in the Intertidal Zone: Wave-exposed rocky intertidal ecosystems are subjected to conditions of both emergence and submergence as well as splash and wave surge events. By using a combination of temperature and pressure loggers, it is possible to quantify these conditions for different shore levels and extrapolate over longer time periods to resolve possible mechanisms for the observed distributions of organisms while incorporating the unique topographic characteristics of different field sites. This information can be used to test the hypothesis that growth and survival of an organism is determined by adaptations to the relative quantities of emergence, splash, surge, and submergence. Verification of Biophysical Models: Mechanistic models are important tools for understanding how environmental variables influence the physiology and behavior of organisms. These models can be used to predict the distributions of organisms under past, current, and future climates but are dependent on weather data. By employing forecast verification methods, I evaluate the best sources of weather data for a model of mussel body temperature in order increase the quality and spatial scale of ecological predictions based on this model. Hindcasts of Mussel Mortality: I am investigating the importance of temperature in setting patterns of Mytilus californianus zonation by using a technique that combines field surveys, physiological studies, and a theoretical model of mussel body temperature. Surveys of M. californianus upper limits were conducted at 15 sites ranging from Washington to Southern California. By utilizing this information in the theoretical model, I can determine locations where upper limits of M. californianus are likely limited by body temperature. Long-term Observations of Rocky Intertidal Communities: Long-term observational data are essential for determining the effects of environmental change in the rocky intertidal. I am working with Dr. Bill Ballantine, a retired professor from the University of Auckland, to determine if changes in the population of the limpet, Cellana radians, during the last 20 years in the Leigh Marine Reserve are associated with weather and tidal patterns. Patterns of High Temperature Risk: The timing of the tide determines when intertidal organisms are exposed to terrestrial weather conditions during midday that can lead to harmful body temperatures. I use spatially continuous tidal predictions and solar elevations to determine the probability of high temperature events for intertidal ecosystems. By connecting risk with weather conditions, it is possible to make predictions of where and when to look for impacts of climate change in the future.   Related Publications: Mislan, K.A.S., D.S. Wethey, and B. Helmuth. 2009. When to worry about the weather: Role of tidal cycle in determining patterns of risk in intertidal systems. Global Change Biology. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2486.2009.01936.x Abstract Data Download: Table View Image View   Predation on Juvenile Lobsters: The role of large predatory fish in coastal communities is generally unknown because of overfishing. In Northeastern New Zealand, the population sizes of large fish have increased in marine reserves compared to surrounding areas open to fishing. In order to understand the direct and indirect impacts of these increased population sizes on coastal food chains, the effect of areas with more fish predators on the survival and behaviour of juvenile lobsters, Jasus edwardsii, was assessed.   Related Publications: Mislan, K.A.S. and R. Babcock. 2008. Survival and behaviour of juvenile red rock lobster, Jasus edwardsii, on rocky reefs with varying predation pressure and habitat complexity. Marine and Freshwater Research. 59: 246-253.