Relationship Between Foraminiferal Assemblages and Cassiopea Coverage Across a Gradient of Human Influence in Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Puerto Rico

Authors

• Nylah Barber, Hampton University
• Angelique Rosa Marín, University of South Florida
• Natalia López-Figueroa, University of South Florida
• Darma Ramos-Negrón, University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez
• Xiomara Cruz-De León, University of Puerto Rico at Humacao
• Andrea Acevedo Colón, University of Puerto Rico at Bayamón
• Pamela Hallock, University of South Florida

Document Type

Poster Session

Publication Date

1-1-2026

Abstract

Ecological Relevance: Foraminifera and Cassiopea (upside down-jellyfish) are symbiont-bearing organisms that respond rapidly to environmental changes in tropical systems, hence potential candidates as bioindicators to support ecological monitoring at JBNERR. Purpose: By using foraminiferal assemblages and Cassiopea as potential bioindicators, we can assess environmental conditions and contribute to management needs in the reserve. Hypothesis: Foraminiferal assemblages and the percent coverage of Cassiopea will reflect the habitat conditions of sites with varying levels of human influence at JBNERR.

Rights Information

Terms of use for work posted in Scholar Commons.

Scholar Commons Citation

Barber, Nylah; Rosa Marín, Angelique; López-Figueroa, Natalia; Ramos-Negrón, Darma; Cruz-De León, Xiomara; Acevedo Colón, Andrea; and Hallock, Pamela, "Relationship Between Foraminiferal Assemblages and Cassiopea Coverage Across a Gradient of Human Influence in Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Puerto Rico" (2026). Making Waves REU. 1.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/making-waves_reu/1