Dr. Edward J. Phlips
- Harmful Algal Blooms
- B.A. Biology, University of California, CA, USA, 1972
- M.S. Biological Oceanography, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, 1976
- Ph.D. Marine Biology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA, 1981
Ed Phlips came to the University of Florida in 1983, after a postdoctoral position at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences. The focus of his research has been the biology, ecology, and management of algae and aquatic microorganisms.
In 1993, two new research projects were initiated in the St. John's River, Florida's largest river, and Florida Bay, a major estuarine environment off the southern tip of Florida. Both of these projects dealt with the ecology of plankton communities. In Florida Bay, massive algal blooms threaten the health and stability of the unique tropical habitats within the Florida Keys, including the only major coral reefs in the continental United States. The goal of Dr. Phlips' research is to determine the causes and consequences of these blooms.
His most recent research initiatives deal with planktonic primary production in the Suwannee River estuary, located in Florida's Big Bend region, and in the Indian River Lagoon, along the east coast of Florida. His research in the Big Bend region is part of a broader department-wide initiative to address the multi-disciplinary research needs in this unique region of the state.