In the Bockus laboratory we use comparative physiology to examine species-specific adaptations to environmental parameters and how these interactions affect metabolic performance, distribution and ecosystem stability. Our work encompasses analyses from the biochemical to the whole-organism level and provides insight into the physiological mechanisms driving biological oceanography. Research projects address acclimatory and adaptational responses to a number of variables, including temperature, salinity, hypoxia, acidification, and hydrostatic pressure. As ecophysiologists, we rely on field and laboratory analyses and study a variety of marine organisms, such as sharks, coastal and pelagic invertebrates, and fishes.
Recently, the need to ensure food security in a future of changing oceanic conditions and exacerbated global food shortages has expanded our laboratory’s focus. Many of our current research projects concentrate on enhancing aquaculture production through physiological and nutritional advancements. Our lab is currently developing aquafeeds, feeding protocol, and environmental conditions for rapid growout of marine finfish. We are especially interested in commercial target species for offshore production in the Gulf of Mexico.
