Reagan M. Errera

Dr. Errera's research focuses on phytoplankton ecology concentrating on harmful algal species (HABs) and global climate change. Phytoplankton are key players in freshwater and marine communities and understanding their functional role within ecosystems improves our insight of aquatic systems. Harmful algal species often threaten both ecosystem and human health, while, changes in the structure and function of phytoplankton due to climate change will have significant impacts on community dynamics. Her interests in HABs includes identifying factors influencing toxin production, allelopathic chemicals, and HABs impact on phytoplankton community dynamics. Dr. Errera's research also explores how the impact of acidification, temperature, and timing of freshwater inflows impacts the phytoplankton community. She's worked with a number of harmful algal species including Karenia brevis, Pseudo-nitzschia spp., Prymnesium parvum, Microcystis spp. and Dolichospermum flos-aquae. In addition, Dr. Errera has also had the opportunity to work worldwide including the Gulf of Mexico, western Indian Ocean, Texas reservoirs, Breton Sound Estuary, Barataria Bay, Lake Pontchartrain, and the Great Lakes.

Education:

PhD Oceanography Texas A&M University 2013;
MS Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Texas A&M University 2006;
BS Biology Trinity University 2002

Research Interests:

Harmful algal blooms, phycotoxins, phytoplankton community dynamics, ocean acidification and climate change

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