Ilya Sniff (REU) Presents Poster

Ilya Sniff, a research experience for undergraduate (REU) student from Grinnell College, recently presented his research poster at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab's symposium for REU students. His project examined how sediment geochemistry changed in an area where a layer of shells, the physical structure of an oyster reef, was placed prior to reef restoration. By analyzing sediment samples from before and after the reef restoration, Sniff was able to show that the shells had a significant impact on the sediment's chemistry. Specifically, his work showed an increase in pH following the shell placement, and an increase in calcium carbonate content. These changes make the surrounding sediment more suitable for the survival of juvenile oysters, which is an important aspect of oyster reef restoration.