Robert Tomasetti

My current research investigates why some seaweeds in Biscayne Bay (and South Florida) form blooms, while others don't, even when exposed to the same nutrient and temperature conditions. Part of this investigation involves tracking stoichiometric ratios (carbon:nitrogen:phosphorus) in local seaweeds over time and how observations tie into larger biogeographical patterns in seaweeds regionally and globally. This research builds upon my previous findings that just 5% of seaweed genera are responsible for 50% of global species richness, and that this subset of highly diverse and widespread genera has higher tropical diversity and taxa capable of causing algal blooms and phase shifts on coral reefs.