Marine Heatwaves and Red Drum, Sciaenops ocellatus: Impacts on Early-Life Survival and Growth

The research team will test how moderate and extreme marine heatwaves (MHWs) affect early-life growth and survival of red drum. Laboratory studies aim to characterize the effect of thermal stress due to increases in frequency and intensity of MHWs on juvenile red drum. Findings will inform production and release strategies for the ongoing stock enhancement program to bolster wild population and provide context to documented declines, and will be directly incorporated into stock assessments, projections, and science-based management decisions to support S.C.’s red drum fishery.