Marine invasive species impact on ecosystem structure and function (MARINVA) (38716)

The project aims to investigate the structural and environmental impacts of invasive benthic fauna and algae in Danish waters. Focus is on three species: a macrophyte from Asia, a group of polychaete species from North America/Arctic and an oyster species from Japan. All three species are more or less well established in Danish waters and co-existing in the western Limfjord. Knowledge on these species is sparse, including their physiological and habitat requirements. We will study how and to what extent these species influence the community they have become a part of with particular focus on ecosystem nutrient and energy turnover. The approach is a combination of field and laboratory experiments at different scales (individual to population). DTU Aqua focuses on coexistence of Pacific oyster and blue mussels in relation to competition for food and space, and research include lab and field experiments, and observation of small and large scale distribution.

The project is coordinated by University of Copenhagen.

Research area: Coastal Ecology
Research area: Ecosystem based Marine Management