Measuring the response of engineering species (coral and seagrass) to the combined effect of global and local environmental change in the Gulf of Aqaba

The Red Sea simulator was designed to allow researchers to expose reef organisms to future conditions in the Red Sea. 

In a series of studies in Mediterranean Sea and tropical CO2 vent systems we explore responses of benthic organisms along a pH gradient to the conditions they live in. These unique environments tell an amazing story on the acclimation capacity of marine ecosystems.

Coral reefs around the world are rapidly deteriorating due to human-induced warming, acidification, and pollution of the seas.  Corals in the GoA have the potential to survive predicted climate changes and act as a refuge. We believe this resilience results from the unique oceanographic history of the Red Sea and further research is underway to fully understand this phenomenon.