Page 296 - The Virgin Islands
P. 296
WE ARE THE GUARDIANS Today’s Research
OF THE SEA for Tomorrow’s Oceans
Today, Mote’s scientists are To protect our future, we must ensure the well-being of our
working on 136 projects oceans — the life support system that provides essential oxygen,
that take them all over the food, medicines and more. With that truth at heart, Mote Marine
world in pursuit of science- Laboratory scientists conduct world-class research to enhance and
based marine conservation ultimately transform our understanding of the oceans.
programs.
Mote scientists work in the waters around all seven continents,
The most recent research leading 25 diverse research programs based at Florida campuses
program established at from Sarasota to the Keys. They are investigating new cancer- and
Mote is the Coral Health & infection-fighting substances from the sea; finding innovative
Disease program, headed ways to restore, in our lifetime, dwindling coral reefs — the ocean’s
by Dr. Erinn Muller. “rainforests”; elucidating and mitigating the impacts of climate
change, ocean acidification and major oil spills; educating the
public on conservation techniques and marine science; developing
new technology and expanding vital ocean observing efforts;
uncovering threats to sharks, sea turtles, marine mammals and
other imperiled wildlife; seeking new ways to sustain fisheries
while boosting sustainable seafood farming; and much more.