Ecosystem function provisioning by freshwater mussels
My current research seeks to better understand ecosystem services provided by freshwater mussels through the processes of carbon storage and denitrification. Bivalves are known to alter carbon budgets through carbon sequestration in their shells, excretion of dissolved organic carbon and egestion of carbon-rich biodeposits, and by altering sediment carbon mineralization via burrowing. Nitrogen removal via denitrification in freshwater ecosystems is a research priority because extensive nutrient pollution is caused by the overapplication of fertilizers in agricultural and residential areas - which runs off into freshwater systems carried by precipitation. Healthy and diverse freshwater mussel beds are likely to help remove this excess nitrogen from the system by increasing the rates at which the microbially-mediated process of denitrification occurs. In the Atkinson Lab, we are exploring how mussels' functional traits mediate their contributions to carbon storage and nitrogen removal.
emergent macrophytes and aquatic-terrestrial linkages at mussel beds
Mussels concentrate and recycle biologically important elements like nitrogen, phosphorous, and calcium. My work focuses on how mussels take part in these elemental cycles and how this impacts the ecosystem, especially across the aquatic-terrestrial interface. Mussels are patchily distributed, creating biogeochemical hotspots of nutrient availability. When emergent macrophytes grow at the margins of a stream reach that contains mussels, they use mussel-derived nutrients for growth. This creates a link between the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems when terrestrial herbivores like deer and livestock eat these macrophytes.
Importance
Freshwater ecosystems and animals are highly imperiled, especially freshwater mussels. Mussels are often underappreciated in spite of the services they provide by promoting healthy and productive ecosystems. Prior research has shown their relevance to the functioning of aquatic systems, especially in North America, where climate change, impoundment, and human activity and development threaten the health of inland waters. They are also unique animals with a fascinating life cycle that warrants continued study. By furthering our understanding of how mussels support ecosystem function, we justify the continued protection of our freshwater resources.