Lopez Lab @ NSU

We leverage genetics and genomics to reveal the complex connections between invertebrates, microbes and their environment.

**Cyanobacteria | We are using 16S and metagenome sequencing techniques to investigate harmful algal blooms in Lake Okeechobee** | Roger Griffith, Wikimedia Commons

Our research spans terrestrial, aquatic, and endosymbiotic environments.

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**In collaboration with horticulturists at Bok Tower Garden, our lab sequenced the microbiome of Rugel’s pawpaw (*Deeringothamnus rugelii*), an endangered species endemic to Florida.**

Polyhydroxyalkonoate (PHA) plastics are sustainable because they are made and can be degraded by microbes

Our MMG laboratory has collaborated with Dr. Kirk Dotson, Broward Reef Discovery Center (RDC) founder and engineer, to study the biological degradation of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) drinking straws. We have published a paper, “ Degradation of Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) Drinking Straws at an Ocean Shoreline”, describing this marine PHA “plastisphere”, a community of bacteria that can likely degrade the straws.

Implications Beyond Our World

Inevitable future: space colonization beyond Earth with microbes first.

Discourse for scientists and space administrators on how and why to elevate microorganisms as essential components of future colonization strategies of our solar system. Microbial Ecology 95(10) doi 10.1093

**Mera East Hills, Mars** | NASA, Rover Spirit

Learn More About Research in the Lopez Lab

NSU Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center | 8000 North Ocean Drive | Dania Beach, FL 33004 | Lab Member Login