Rémi M. Daigle, Postdoctoral Fellow
Dept of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto; Dept of Biology, McGill University; Institut Des Sciences De La Mer De Rimouski, Université du Québec à Rimouski; Dept of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University
I am an NSERC Postdoctoral Fellow interested in larval ecology, ocean health, and the design of marine protected areas.
Supervisor(s): Dr. Marie-Josée Fortin, Dr. Frédéric Guichard, Dr. Philippe Archambault and Dr. Isabelle M Côté.
Start to Finish: 01/2016 to 12/2017
CHONe Project: 1.1.1: Optimization of MPA selection based on spatial connectivity and on metapopulation and metacommunity dynamics
Project Title: Optimization of MPA selection based on spatial connectivity and on metapopulation and metacommunity dynamics of larval dispersal.
Project Description:
I’m using a biophysical model of larval dispersal to quantify larval dispersal now and in future climate scenarios. This data will be used to optimized marine protected areas in the Atlantic and the Pacific. I am also developing a regional assessments of the Ocean Health Index for the Canadian Atlantic
The specific project/thesis aims are:
- Map larval connectivity (physical dispersal) to enable MPA planning
- Develop the Ocean Health Index as a tool for policymakers
It will be interesting to compare the connectivity findings from this project and that from the genetic connectivity (1.1.2). I also think our findings will be helpful in applying the population connectivity data in designating networks of MPAs (1.1.3) as well as informing one aspect of conservation success (1.1.4). The Ocean Health Index project can be a useful framework to organize CHONe findings in areas where we may have many projects (i.e. Baie de Sept-Îles) and can be used for science communication as well as policymaking.
