The Forrest Research Foundation’s collaboration grant provides a unique opportunity for researchers from different disciplines and universities to come together and tackle key research challenges.
We are delighted to award a collaboration grant to Forrest Fellow Dr Seth Cones (Murdoch University) and Forrest Scholar Luka Seamus Wright (University of Western Australia) to investigate how climate change is impacting giant clams at Ningaloo Reef.
Starting in November, Seth and Luka will examine the role of light in the daily behaviour and photosynthesis of giant clams (Tridacna species). Their study aims to improve our understanding of the giant clam symbiosis and how it responds to rising ocean temperatures and marine heatwaves.
Unlike many marine animals, giant clams cannot escape warming waters, forcing them to endure the full intensity and duration of marine heatwave events and making them ideal indicators of environmental change.
Using sensors placed on and around the clams, the team will measure environmental conditions and behavioural responses to better understand how giant clam populations may adapt, or struggle to adapt, in a warming climate.
The findings will contribute to our understanding of climate change impacts on marine ecosystems, with an initial publication from the project anticipated in late 2027.
Photo credit: Luka Seamus Wright
