Cyanobacteria, a group of ancient bacteria responsible for oxygenating the Earth 2.4 billion years ago, play a vital role in shaping our planet's ecosystems. Despite their importance, cyanobacteria are often misunderstood and underappreciated. This workshop aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the ecology of cyanobacteria, focusing on their lifecycle, taxonomy, and diversity. We will delve into the evolutionary adaptations that have enabled cyanobacteria to exploit their surrounding environments and form overgrowths known as “harmful algal blooms," which can significantly impact aquatic ecosystems.
This workshop will present an overview of the diversity of the morphological, physiological, and metabolic characteristics that have made cyanobacteria incredibly successful as both primary producers and nuisance pests.
Additionally, the workshop will cover various management techniques used to prevent and control cyanobacteria. By the end of the workshop, participants will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of cyanobacteria and their ecological significance.
Presenter Rob Newby, Ph.D., is a Research Microbiologist with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Rob has served on the ITRC Harmful Cyanobacteria Bloom (HCB) Guidance Document 1 and 2 workgroups, numerous state and federal panels for HABs/HCBs. He serves as one of the state's subject matter experts for algal ecology and remediation.
Rob Newby, Ph.D., is a Research Microbiologist with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Rob has served on the ITRC Harmful Cyanobacteria Bloom (HCB) Guidance Document 1 and 2 workgroups, numerous state and federal panels for HABs/HCBs. He serves as one of the state's subject matter experts for algal ecology and remediation.