RESEARCH

Research Overview 

​Research in the Blewett Lab uses physiological knowledge to understand, and potentially solve, environmental issues impacting the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. More specifically, we study how the environment influences organismal function, and in turn how the physiology of aquatic invertebrates and fish can alter the sensitivity of animals to stressing factors in their natural habitats. Stressors of interest include those of both anthropogenic (e.g. metal, organic and emerging contaminants) and natural (e.g. dissolved oxygen, salinity) origin.  See specific areas of research interests below.  

 Aquatic Toxicology

​A core focus of research in the lab is understanding the impacts of aquatic toxicants, such as the effluents associated with hydraulic fracturing (a method of oil and gas extraction growing in importance in Alberta). Recent work on these effluents has examined physical, molecular, biochemical, and physiological endpoints associated with effects in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and Daphnia, while ongoing studies seek to examine transgenerational impacts.  Other research projects examine the toxicity of trace metals, and emerging contaminants such as pharmaceuticals. 


 

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What drives species success? 
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Aquatic invasive species are successful, in large part, due to their ability to survive and thrive under a wide range of environmental conditions. Research in the lab examines physiological mechanisms that may explain the success of such species. For example, our data has shown that the invasive green shore crab (Carcinus maenas) can take amino acids up across its gill, a phenomenon that may confer a competitive advantage over other species.  We are currently collaborating with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the Costal Restoration Society to determine their physiological limits. 

 
Physiology of extremophile animals 

Our research group is interested in studying fish and invertebrates that are capable of withstanding extreme environments. Of recent interest is collaborative research conducted in the field in Belize on the mangrove rivulus, Kryptolebias marmoratus. Occupying waters that are frequently hypoxic, but which are also associated with highly contaminated sediments, ongoing studies are examining the interplay between behavioural, physiological and toxicological responses of this species. 
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