Thread by @SERCinvasions

Eek! We've been so busy studying the two biggest estuaries in the US, we almost forgot about #EstuariesWeek
As part of the #FoulingProject we are collecting samples from marinas around both #ChesBay and #SFBay

We then take them back to the labs at @SmithsonianEnv and #SERCWest @EOS_Center and process the panels with a coarse identification of the invertebrates that settle on them and take vouchers and samples for DNA analysis.
#FoulingProject #ChesBay #SFBay

Depending on location in the bay, the panels can look very different and contain different assemblages of organisms. #InvertebratesRule #FoulingProject #EstuariesWeek #ChesBay

Once we have processed the plates and entered all the field and lab data, we send vouchers specimens out to different taxonomic experts so that they can verify our ids. #InvertebratesRule #FoulingProject #EstuariesWeek

Lastly we consult the taxonomists and our resident literature and natural history expert Paul Fofonoff and the #NEMESISdbase to determine if we've found any new introductions of #InvasiveSpecies and work up our data all at the end of #FieldSeason #FoulingProject #EstuariesWeek

invasions.si.edu/nemesis/

If you would like to get involved, you can help the #FoulingProject from the comfort of your very own home at zooniverse.org/projects/serc/…
#CitizenScience #FollowFriday #EstuariesWeek #InvasiveSpecies #Zooniverse