SEAGRASS ECOLOGIST AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT

Seagrass, Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Fisheries, and Water Quality

Dr Richard Unsworth M.Sc B.Sc CMarSci

Chartered Marine Scientist (IMarEST)

I am a seagrass ecologist at Swansea University where I work on the SEACAMS project and teach  on the degree programme in Marine Biology. I have a specialist knowledge of habitat connectivity, seagrass meadows, and tropical marine ecology. Recent research work has included studies on seagrass meadow environmental dynamics, seagrass as bioindicators, and seagrass ocean acidification interactions in tropical marine environments. I am currently developing research collaborations with Queensland Government and James Cook University, as well as with the Universities of Bangor, Oxford and Plymouth.

Previously I have worked as a consultant for Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) on large marine development projects. Recent consultancy projects include Environmental Impact Assessments for a power station in Indonesia, Port Expansions in Western Australia, and road developments in Queensland. I have also recently worked at University of Glamorgan as a senior lecturer in ecology.

Current research interests include the impact of climate change and climate variability on seagrass ecosystems, ocean acidification and seagrass, habitat connectivity between seagrass reef and mangroves, the economic and social value of seagrass meadows, coral disease dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, and the habitat value of seagrass to caridean shrimp. I am also involved with projects on the ecology of Zostera marina (Eelgrass) and Zostera Noltii seagrass beds in Wales and have an interest in seagrass restoration.

I have a PhD titled ‘Aspects of the ecology of Indo-Pacific seagrass systems’ and have previously been involved with the monitoring of artisanal fisheries; work on direct economic value of habitats; and research into the effect of marine reserves on top predatory fish. My career has included consultancy, conservation and research projects in Wales, Australia, Indonesia, Philippines, England, Portugal, Azores and the Isles of Orkney. I am continually developing relations with NGOs, private consultancies and academia. This is to develop research and consultancy projects, and a long-term career in environmental consultancy and natural resource management. The creation of Orthia Marine as a private consulting company is a long-term development.

I originate from Wrexham, North Wales and support the mighty reds. May Dean Saunders bring them much needed success! I am also a keen kitesurfer, and cyclist.

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