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.
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Aquatic Toxicology
A core focus of research in the lab is understanding the impacts of aquatic toxicants, such as inorganic (i.e., metals) and organic contaminants (i.e., pharmaceuticals and forever chemicals) and their mixtures in freshwater and marine environments. We are also focused on methodological limitations of standardized testing in toxicology. With a focus on bridging the gap between standard laboratory tests and ecosystem-level effects by incorporating less understood modifiers of toxicity. |
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Wildfire Toxicity
The terrestrial impacts of wildfires are well documented; however, their effects on aquatic ecosystems remain less well characterized. Fire intensity, vegetation type, and burn severity all influence the chemical contaminants that are experienced by aquatic environments both during wildfire events and in the subsequent runoff period. In addition, wildfire-driven effects are highly complex, varying across large spatial and temporal scales and persisting long after the initial disturbance. Our research group is investigating, through both laboratory and field approaches, how wildfire-derived ash affects fish and invertebrate species, as well as how nutrient inputs released by wildfires influence population dynamics and broader ecosystem processes. |
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Canadian Arctic Toxicology
Our research group focuses on studying fish and invertebrates that can survive in extreme environments, particularly how cold-adapted animals are affected by environmental toxicants. Recently, in collaboration with POLAR Knowledge Canada at the Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS) we are set to explore the impact of environmental pollutants on Arctic species. Specifically, we are investigating the toxicity of critical minerals, as well as low-sulfur fuels, on Arctic organisms. Our ongoing studies are examining how behavioral, physiological, and toxicological responses of Arctic species are influenced by environmental changes, especially those driven by climate change. |