Faculty Researcher, University of Hawaii, Department of Botany, 3190 Maile Way, Honolulu, HI, 96822, Email: jesmith@hawaii.edu, Office: (808)956-3943

New Job At NCEAS beginning Oct 1, 2005

Jennifer's research focuses on understanding the role of various physical and biological variables in structuring marine communities. While she has conducted research in a number of different systems, both pristine and degraded, her primary interests lie in determining how different anthropogenic impacts affect coral reef community structure. When coral reefs undergo degradation, a "phase-shift" usually occurs where reef-building corals are replaced by fleshy macroalgae. Phase-shifts are often considered to be irreversible and the end result is a macroalgal dominated community that lacks the diversity, complexity and structure necessary to support a typical reef setting. Jennifer has and continues to study various anthropogenic factors that cause phase shifts from coral to algal dominance. Specifically she has focused on the importance of herbivory and nutrient concentrations in maintaining the competitive balance between algae and coral. Further she has been studying non-native or exotic macroalgae that have been introduced to coral reefs in the Hawaiian Islands. With this work she has taken a holistic approach by trying to understand a) why these invaders are so successful in their invaded environments, b) what impacts they have to native communities and c) what management options will be useful in controlling these invaders. She has a long-term interest in seaweed invasions especially as related to intentional introductions for the aquaculture industry. Jennifer's research often goes beyond basic ecology by integrating conservation, restoration, management and sustainability. Her most recent interests include testing potential techniques that can be used to help in reef restoration. 

Email me: jesmith@hawaii.edu