Beachgrass Microbiome Project

About This Program

We are conducting research in the lab to understand the microbial communities (or microbiomes) that play a role in the healthy growth of beachgrass along the South Shore of Long Island. Identifying not only who is there, but which microbes that are associated with the plant, could help design biofertilizers in the future and develop biotechnological solutions for replanting beachgrass and helping barrier islands retain sand dune stability. The research group works with local towns to get access to beach sites with different dune and beachgrass management programs, and have participated in educational events with the towns.