Linking functional diversity to stress thresholds for coastal conservation

Global declines in biodiversity from human impacts are of great concern as they lead to the loss of vital ecosystem functions, such as nutrient cycling and primary productivity, which underpin our food and water supplies. This project will examine the ability of Australia’s soft-sediment communities to withstand or recover from pollution stress and determine whether resilience differs between temperate and tropical marine systems. Findings from this project will have direct relevance to regulating and remediating contaminants, enhancing conservation strategies along our vast coastline and ensuring the continuity of ecosystems services upon which humans rely.