Challen Hyman
NMFS-Sea Grant Population and Ecosystem Dynamics Fellow Challen Hyman checks on his research plots in the York River on Aug 23, 2021. Hyman’s research at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science focuses on modeling nursery habitat for young blue crabs.
Seagrass meadows are considered the main sanctuary for blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay — they provide plenty of food for growing crabs and refuge from predators. But these seagrass meadows may not be able to withstand warmer temperatures from climate change.
Hyman’s model will measure how well seagrass — and other alternative nursery habitats, like marsh grass and cloudy water — can support young blue crabs. He will measure blue crab growth, survival, and abundance in these habitats. (Photo by Aileen Devlin | Virginia Sea Grant)
Challen Hyman
NMFS-Sea Grant Population and Ecosystem Dynamics Fellow Challen Hyman checks on his research plots in the York River on Aug 23, 2021. Hyman’s research at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science focuses on modeling nursery habitat for young blue crabs.
Seagrass meadows are considered the main sanctuary for blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay — they provide plenty of food for growing crabs and refuge from predators. But these seagrass meadows may not be able to withstand warmer temperatures from climate change.
Hyman’s model will measure how well seagrass — and other alternative nursery habitats, like marsh grass and cloudy water — can support young blue crabs. He will measure blue crab growth, survival, and abundance in these habitats. (Photo by Aileen Devlin | Virginia Sea Grant)