Researcher biography
Qualifications:
Master of Philosophy in Ocean and Earth Sciences (Marine Science), Universiti Malaya
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Marine Biology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu
Project title:
Seagrass connectivity and its role in informing marine conservation planning for megaherbivores
Project description:
Understanding where and how species are connected is crucial for adequate biological protection and habitat conservation of marine ecosystems. Seagrass meadows are critical habitats for many marine species, particularly megaherbivores like dugongs and green sea turtles. However, the fragmentation and loss of seagrass meadows have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of these species, particularly in the Southeast Asia region where levels of seagrass protection are highly variable among countries.
The aims of this study are to identify dispersal pathways and important seagrass meadows for maintaining the connectivity and persistence of metapopulations and to understand how seagrass connectivity networks influence the distribution and population structure of megaherbivores. This study focuses on the Gulf of Thailand, where information gaps have limited effective conservation planning, including integrating seascape connectivity into marine protected area (MPA) network design. The synthesized knowledge will then be used to assess and improve regional conservation planning to enhance ecosystem resilience to disturbances and environmental pressures in the future.
Advisors/supervisors:
Associate Professor Daniel Dunn, Professor Peter Mumby, Dr Janet Lanyon