The K-Tower monitoring system plays an important role to researchers and others in academia. Dr. Sandra Brooke, FSUCML faculty, is currently studying coral growth and reproduction in the Florida Panhandle. This region has a more variable and extreme environment than areas such as the Florida Keys, where the same species of coral occur. Dr. Brooke hopes to determine how temperature affects coral growth rates.

Although approximately half of the world’s known chondrichthyans (sharks, skates, rays, and chimaeras) live in the deep sea, very little is known about these elusive animals. Thus, these species may be vulnerable as global fisheries continue to expand while research is often lacking to document the biology and life history of these fishes.

When Ed Mansouri was just 6 years old, he developed a fascination with weather. Still an unabashed meteorology enthusiast, Mr. Mansouri, CEO and Founder of UCOMPASS, a Tallahassee-based company that pioneers education technology, went on to develop the WeatherSTEM, which integrates weather stations, collected and distributed atmospheric data, and STEM-based education.

Thanks to all of you for exceeding our expectations in the Great Give. Forty-nine friends contributed $5,280 to the Great Give on behalf of the Marine Lab. You indeed ROCK!

We are pleased to announce the 2015 recipients of the FSUCML Graduate Scholarship Awards. This scholarship funds students who are conducting research at the laboratory. Kudos to all six of the students and many thanks to the FSUCML Board of Trustees for making this happen.

For the first time, Drs. Chip Cotton and Dean Grubbs characterize the reproductive biology of 2 species of deep-sea sharks.

Normalized relations with Cuba could lead to clues to protecting our coral reefs. Through open collaboration with Cuban scientists and study of their healthy reefs, researchers could find answers to these questions and make strides in restoring marine habitats closer to home.

If you haven't already seen it, check out the new FSUCML weather station! The station encourages Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) learning among students of all ages.

The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve is hosting a marvelous display that highlights the ongoing research conducted by FSUCML faculty and graduate students.