Michaela Edwards

Eastern oyster's behavioral and morphological response to external biotic stimuli
UNH grad student Michaela Edwards holding a crab

Biological Sciences: Marine Biology M.S.
Email address: michaela.edwards@unh.edu
Advisors: Dr. Easton Whitelab website; Dr. Brittany Jellison, lab website

Michaela's research focuses on the gaping behavior of Eastern oysters and how external factors influence this behavior. Additionally, she researches how external stimuli influence the morphological changes in Eastern oysters. Her primary focus is variables that are expected to negatively impact oysters and thus have the potential to lead to a decline in the oyster population. In her master's program, Michela analyzes how various cues from an oyster predator, the European green crab, impact gaping behavior. Further, she is examining how various handling durations and biofouling levels influence oysters. This research aims to help increase knowledge for restoration and management efforts and the aquaculture industry regarding various influences on oyster behavioral expression and overall health.

Learn more