NSU Horizons Spring 2010

expected to create 22 new academic jobs and 300 con- struction jobs; employ 50 graduate students; and pre- serve 22 existing academic jobs. It’s expected to open in December 2011. “I am thrilled that Nova Southeastern University has this opportunity to continue its leadership role in Florida’s and the nation’s science and research economy,” said NSU Chancellor Ray Ferrero, Jr. “This type of research infrastructure is urgently needed to support economic growth and environmental sustainability in our region.” Using the largest research grant in NSU’s history, the center will be the only research facility in the nation dedicated to coral reef ecosystem research (reefs and their surrounding environ- ment). It will have space for offices, laboratories that allow for research collaboration, training, and staging for fieldwork. The goal is to expand research by current and new faculty researchers, visiting scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students. Reefs in Decline These OC knowledge seekers are uncovering the mysteries of coral reefs— wave-resistant, calcium carbonate struc- tures formed by the skeletons of living coral animals. Corals have plant cells, which are derived from algae, in their animal tissues. These cells allow them to use sunlight for food and energy. Coral reefs provide shelter, food, and living space for fish and other marine life. Most of them are found in tropical and subtropi- cal waters between the latitudes of the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer. However, there are species of deep-sea corals that can live in cold water areas. South Florida has the largest concentration of coral reefs in the contiguous United States. Called the Florida Reef Track, it stretches from Martin County in the north, to The Keys and the Dry Tortugas in the south. These reefs, along with others around the world, are under grave threat today from a variety of causes, including pol- lutants carried to the ocean by storm drains and sewers, ship groundings and anchors, the fre- quent hunt for aquarium fish, and the overgrowth of algae in areas of excessive nutrients. Other factors that kill coral reefs include the effects of climate change, which increases ocean temperatures and acidity levels. A global rise in carbon dioxide levels, according to scientists, is the chief culprit of climate change. Why should we care? Coral reef ecosystems are extremely valuable biologically, environmentally, and economically. They provide employment by creating jobs; recreation for swimmers, snorkelers, anglers, and divers; and coastal protection against storms for millions of residents and tourists. In South Florida, reefs are a $6-billion industry that employs 71,000 people, according to Dodge. Currently, at least 20 percent of the world’s coral reefs are gone, and another 50 percent are in danger. At this rate, coral reefs may not be around for future generations to enjoy. “The ocean, and particularly the reefs, can barely survive today’s threats,” Dodge said. “Urgent action is needed at the local and international levels.” Action has been underway for a while at the Oceanographic Center. It’s home to the National 16 horizons NCRI researchers survey corals in Broward County waters, while other graduate students prepare for their dive. Below, Alison Moulding, Ph.D., checks a settlement tank for juvenile corals.