Marine phytoplankton are microscopic, photosynthetic organisms that form the foundation of the ocean’s food web and produce over half of Earth’s oxygen.

Our crustacean species are ecologically important, and critical to the economy of the Mid-Atlantic.

Deep-sea corals are cold-water ecosystems that thrive without sunlight, providing vital habitats for diverse marine species.

Mollusks are a varied group of soft-bodied animals, many of which have hard shells. They are essential to both marine ecosystems and human economies.

Ecosystems are highly complex webs of species that mix in space and time, creating intricate relationships that can be difficult or complex to study.

Finfish (any fish with a fin versus a shell) are a diverse group of fish species essential for marine ecosystems and a vital resource for global fisheries and aquaculture.

SAV, comprising attached macroalgae and seagrass species, support coastal ecosystems by providing habitat, improving water quality, and buffering against climate change impacts.

Zooplankton are tiny drifting animals that play a critical role in aquatic food webs, linking phytoplankton to larger marine species.