FAS-Online Abstracts 2015

Abstracts of the 78th
Annual Meeting of the Florida Academy of Sciences
Indian River State College-Fort Pierce, Florida
7-8 March 2014
Copyright © 2014 Florida Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved
1
This document is an edited version of the FAS 2014 Program Book. All abstracts will be published in a supplemental
issue of the 2014 Florida Scientist (Volume 77, Supp. 1), and will also be posted on the FAS abstracts website found at
www.floridaacademyofsciences.org. Send questions or comments to Kelli Zargiel, FAS Program Chair
(kzargiel@my.fit.edu)
Page
AUTHOR INDEX . . . . . . . . 51
PLE: Plenary Address . . . . . . . . 1
BNQ: Banquet Addresses . . . . . . . 2
AGR: Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources . . . . . 2
AOS: Atmospheric & Oceanographic Sciences . . . . . 7
BIO: Biological Sciences . . . . . . . . 11
CMS: Computer/Mathematical Sciences . . . . . . 33
ENG: Engineering Sciences . . . . . . . 36
ENV: Environmental Chemistry & Chemical Sciences . . . . 36
MED: Medical Sciences . . . . . . . . 40
PSS: Physics & Space Sciences . . . . . . . 44
RES: Florida Committee on Rare and Endangered Species . . . . 45
TCH: Science Teaching . . . . . . . . 46
SOC: Social Sciences . . . . . . . . 48
URB: Urban and Regional Planning . . . . . . 48
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . 49
_________________________________________________________________________________
PLENARY ADDRESS
PLE-01 Helping Scientists Share: How Do We Change the Culture of Science Presentations? R. TANKERSLEY,
Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology. 150 West University Blvd, Melbourne Florida,
32901.Scientists aren’t known for their ability to captivate audiences. But, it’s not their fault! Scientists receive extensive
training in “doing science”, not “sharing science”. Thus, within academia and the research community, there is a growing
interest in improving the communication skills of scientists, especially their ability to communicate the substance and
importance of research to general audiences. What is needed to change the culture of science presentations? How can we
better prepare scientist to design and deliver presentations that engage audiences and communicate science concepts more
clearly? How do we make “sharing science” an integral part of the education and training scientists receive? The
presentation will highlight recent efforts by Florida’s Center for Ocean Science Education Excellence (COSEE Florida) to
transform scientists’ communication practices and to provide opportunities for scientists to connect with different audiences
and broaden the impact of their research.

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BANQUET ADDRESS
BNQ-01 Converting Inedible Biomass into Fuel Ethanol and Chemicals. LONNIE O. INGRAM, Department of
Microbiology and Cell Science, University of Florida, Box 110700, Gainesville, FL 32611. Inedible, woody biomass
(lignocellulose) biomass represents a potential source of carbohydrates (cellulose and hemicellulose) for microbial
fermentation into fuels and chemicals for plastics. Steam pretreatment with dilute mineral acids serves as an efficient
approach to depolymerize hemicellulose and enhance cellulose digestion with enzymes. However, side products (furfural, 5-
hydroxymethyl furfural, acetate, phenolics, and others) formed during pretreatment inhibit microbial growth and retard
fermentation. Potential engineering solutions to this problem (separation of hemicellulose hydrolysate, counter-current-
washing of fibers, and mitigation of toxins) add complexity and increase cost. The level of inhibitors produced during acid
pretreatment is affected by the severity of conditions and the choice of acid. Weaker acids such as phosphoric acid produce
lower levels of toxic side products and reduce the need for exotic metal alloys. Since mineral acids are not consumed by the
pretreatment process, the higher cost of phosphoric acid as compared to sulfuric acid could be offset in part by recovery and
reuse as a dilute fertilizer when crops are nearby. Recent progress has been made in the development of more robust E. coli-
based biocatalyst with increased resistance to dilute acid hydrolysates. Using this biocatalyst and phosphoric acid
pretreatment, we have been able to co-ferment sugarcane bagasse hemicellulose hydrolysate and enzyme-hydrolyzed
cellulose in a single vessel using a variation of the simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation process (SScF). Hexose
and pentose sugars from phosphoric acid pretreated sugarcane bagasse were fermented in a single vessel, eliminating process
steps for solid–liquid separation and sugar cleanup. After pretreatment, a liquefaction step (L) with cellulase enzymes was
included to improve mixing and saccharification (L + SScF), analogous to a corn ethanol process. Bagasse slurries containing
10% and 14% dry weight (fiber plus solubles) were tested using pretreatment temperatures of 160–190 C (1% phosphoric
acid, 10 min). Enzymatic saccharification and inhibitor production both increased with pretreatment temperature. The highest
yield (0.27 g ethanol/g dry bagasse) was 82 gal ethanol per dry ton of bagasse using this L+SScF process. This process is
currently being scaled up in the UF Stan Mayfield Biorefinery Pilot Plant in collaboration with Buckeye Technologies (Ga
Pacific).
AGR = AGRICULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES
AGR-01 Ant Lions: A tool for teaching middle-grades biology. D.A. PICK (1), S.P.ARTHURS (2), and
P.B.AVERY (1). (1) Division of Plant Industry, University of Florida, Ft. Pierce, FL, 34945. (2) Mid-Florida Research and
Education Center, University of Florida, Apopka, FL, 32703. A framework for using ant lions to teach elementary through
high-school biology, and how to avoid possible pitfalls is introduced. When used as a traditional biology lab the goals of this
experiment are to: 1) observe and consider the feeding habits of ant lions in context of behavioral ecology and entomology,
2) learn about predator based biological control 3) learn how environmental conditions change the behavior of their
inhabitants by examining the relationship between soil density and the critical angle of repose, and 4) have students gain
hands-on experience with experimental design. Advantages of using ant lions are their relative ease of acquisition, and that
they do not require IRB approval for experimentation because they are an invertebrate life form. The striking geometry of the
conical ant lion pits easily leads to discussions about radius, diameter, and π producing a healthy association of biology with
sound mathematical measurement and calculation. In upper grades, ant lion labs can be used to teach hypothesis testing and
chi-square analysis. Teaching experimental design and the scientific method is facilitated by the easy to see samples,
replicates, treatments, and trials of this hands-on lab.
AGR-02 Tropical Sod Webworm Herpetogramma phaeopteralis Guenée (Lepidoptera: Crambidae). N.
TOFANGSAZI (1), R.H. CHERRY (2) and S.P. ARTHURS (1). (1) Mid Florida Research and Education Center, University
of Florida, Apopka, FL 32703.(2) Everglades Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Belle Glade, FL 33430.
Herpetogramma phaeopteralis is an important turfgrass pest in Florida and there is a need for effective alternative
management strategies. We evaluated larval development on five artificial diets and at six temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 32.5,
35 ± 1˚C) on St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walter) Kuntze). Only larvae fed St. Augustine grass and soy-
wheat germ diets completed their lifecycles. Two linear (common and second order polynomial) and three nonlinear (Briere-
1, Briere-2, and Lactin-2) models were used to explain the relationship between temperature and e and H. phaeopteralis
development. We also investigated the use of microbial control agents, entomopathogenic nematodes, as potential tools to
manage the damaging larval stages of H. phaeopteralis. We evaluated the pathogenicity of Steinernema carpocapsae, S.
feltiae, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, H. megidis and H. indica against different larval sizes of tropical sod webworm. All
nematode species were pathogenic to H. phaeopteralis in the laboratory, but S. carpocapsae caused the highest mortality.

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Insecticides are commonly used against a wide range of turfpests, including H. phaeopteralis. However limited information
is available on relative toxicity of current insecticides against this pest. We evaluated lethal and residual activity of chemical
compounds amongst several classes against H. phaeopteralis larvae in the laboratory and field conditions. Understanding the
seasonal biology of this species is critical for timing pesticide or bio-insecticide applications and for developing a successful
IPM program. Therefore, the final research objective is to identify the sex pheromone of H. phaeopteralis.
AGR-03 Performance of Chrysoperla rufilabris Burmeister (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) feeding on eggs and first
instars of Microtheca ochroloma Stål (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). A. NIÑO and R. CAVE. Department of Entomology and
Nematology, University of Florida, Indian River Research and Education Center, 2199 S Rock Rd, Ft. Pierce, FL 34945. The
production of crucifer vegetables on organic farms has been highly affected by the presence of the yellowmargined leaf
beetle, Microtheca ochroloma. The use of generalist predators present in Florida might help organic farmers to reduce the
economic impact of this pest on their crops. The green lacewing Chrysoperla rufilabris has been observed preying on M.
ochroloma, but no studies have been conducted to evaluate the efficacy of this predator and the suitability of M. ochroloma
as prey for C. rufilabris. This study evaluated the killing rate, developmental time, and mortality of C. rufilabris when
offered eggs and larvae of M. ochroloma at 10, 15, 20, or 25o
C and assessed prey preference among eggs and first instars of
M. ochroloma and green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, nymphs. For the prey preference study, equal numbers of each prey
type were offered and the number of prey killed within 24h was counted. The mean number of prey killed daily increased
from 8.4 eggs and 4.0 larvae at 15o
C to 18.6 eggs and 10.2 larvae at 25o
C. Mean developmental time decreased from 75.5 d
and 54.0 d at 15o
C to 26.6 d and 21.4d at 25o
C when fed eggs and larvae, respectively. Predator survivorship was reduced by
80% at 15o
C; no larvae survived at 10o
C. The predator showed a 5.2-fold preference for aphids over M. ochroloma eggs and
larvae.
AGR-04 Potential distribution of Myllocerus undecimpustulatus undatus (Sri Lankan Weevil) in North America.
A.S. NEAL, R.D. CAVE and R.R. DIAZ. Entomology & Nematology Department, Institute of Food and Agricultural
Sciences, University of Florida, Indian River REC, 2199 S. Rock Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34945. Myllocerus
undecimpustulatus undatus Marshall, the Sri Lankan weevil, is a serious plant pest with a wide range of hosts. First identified
in the United States on Citrus sp. in Pompano Beach, Broward County, Florida on 15 September 2000, this weevil has over
150 different host plant species including fruits, nuts, vegetables, and ornamentals. It was detected in 12 counties in Florida
by May 2006. Historical data from 2000-2012 obtained from the Division of Plant Industry’s field agent submissions was
entered into DIVA-GIS, a computer program for mapping and geographic data analysis. The BIOCLIM tool within this
program predicted the potential distribution of Sri Lankan weevil in North America. Cold tolerance data was obtained and
correlated with DIVA-GIS predictions. This computer program has been used to predict the potential distribution of invasive
species which can provide valuable information to assist Extension agents and pest management professionals in evaluating
control strategies.
AGR-05 Alternative application of plant growth regulators to optimize rooting in citrus. E.F. COCHRANE (1), E.W.
STOVER (2), S.B.WILSON (1). Indian River Research and Education Center(1), University of Florida, Fort Pierce, FL.
34945 and United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, United States Horticultural Research
Laboratory (2), Fort Pierce, FL 34945. Fourteen apical cuttings (~ 15cm) were collected from 2-3 year old citrus rootstock
varieties US 812 and Carrizo Citrange. Each cutting was stripped of all but 2 leaves, and dipped for 20 minutes in one of 3
treatment rooting solutions of standard MS media with 20g/L sucrose, 0.5mg/L NAA, 5mg/L IBA, and 0.05mg/L spermidine.
Treatment A consisted of rooting solution without sucrose, treatment B without spermidine, and treatment C included both
spermidine and sucrose. A 4th
set of cuttings was dipped in DI water as a control. The cuttings were first stuck in conical
containers filled with damp, steam sterilized sand and then 5ml of rooting solution or water control was applied near the base
of each cutting. Plastic bags were placed over each cutting and secured with a rubber band. Rooting data was collected once a
week for 8 weeks. Rooting solution was reapplied each week. All plants were kept in controlled greenhouse conditions for
the duration of the experiment. Overall, US 812 exhibited no rooting response to any of the treatment conditions. Carrizo
rooted best in Treatment A (no sucrose), showing 57 % rooting success by week 4 and 71% by week 8. Using the same
treatments, the effect of wounding will be examined in future experiments.

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AGR-06 Evaluation of potential biopesticides for mitigating the spread of whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera:
Aleyrodidae) using pre-shipping treatments on ornamental plants. L. F. ARISTIZABAL (1), P. B. AVERY (2), V. KUMAR
(2), J. H. CALWELL (2), C. L. MCKENZIE (3), and L. S. OSBORNE (1). (1) University of Florida, IFAS, Mid-Florida
Research and Education Center, Apopka, FL 32703, USA. (2) University of Florida, IFAS, Indian River Research and
Education Center, Fort Pierce, FL 34945, USA. (3) USDA-ARS, U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory, Ft Pierce, FL
34945, USA. The ornamental plant industry plays an important role in the economy of Florida and other States. However,
invasive insect pests such as the whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyodidae) are spreading through the shipping of
plants and is affecting different crops including vegetables, cereals, fruits, and ornamentals. Potential bio-pesticides such as
commercial soaps, natural oils, and two commercial entomopathogenic fungi: Preferal® (Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain
97), and Botanigard® (Beauveria bassiana Strain GHA) were evaluated using pre-shipping treatments on ornamentals in
order to prevent the dispersion of whitefly from Florida to other States. Clean Mentha sp. (Lamiales: Lamiaceae) potted
plants were infested by exposure to whitefly adults for a 6 day period. Then, adult whiteflies were removed and the number
of eggs and immature stages counted on individual plants. The plants were submerged in a solution (dip application) for 60
seconds using different products. Then the plants, after dry, were placed into a shipping environment inside boxes (darkness
for 24 or 48 h at 20 °C) (15 individual plants/box) used by commercial nurseries. Insect assessments were conducted at 3, 7,
and 14 days after shipping in order to count the whitefly population (eggs, immature stages, and adults). Eleven trials were
conducted with 6 repetitions per treatment. Botanigard® applied alone, Natural Oil® mixed with Preferal®, and Natural
Oil® mixed with Botanigard® caused high mortality of whitefly population 84.48% ± 9.3; 83.77% ± 5.9, and 87.6%± 4.6
respectively. Reduction of the whitefly population by Preferal®, Natural Oil® and Publix soap was 62.2% ± 14.5, 56.05% ±
13.4 and 19.85% ± 15.2, respectively. Botanigard®, and Natural Oil® mixed with either fungal product appear to show
potential as bioinsecticides for mitigating the spread of whitefly on ornamental plants when shipped to different places.
AGR-07 Biological control of the yellowmargined leaf beetle using Podisus maculiventris (Say) in field-release
trials. P.B. AVERY, E. TAPIA, A. NIÑO and R.D. CAVE. Indian River Research and Education Center, University of
Florida, Fort Pierce, FL 34945. Field experiments conducted in 2013 on organic farms in both Vero Beach and Indiantown,
FL, assessed augmentative releases of the predatory spined soldier bug (SSB), Podisus maculiventris, on populations of the
yellowmargined leaf beetle feeding on bok choy crops. The trials had three treatments: First release of 1) three SSB per plant;
2) six SSB per plant; and 3) no SSB. Treatments were replicated with 6 plots of 12 plants each using a randomized complete
block design. Because a native population of the yellowmargined leaf beetle (YMLB) larvae was not present in the plots, 10
first instars were placed on each of twelve plants per plot at Vero Beach. Three weeks post-release, the same quantities of
predators and YMLB first instars were released again, except now only on two different plants in each plot which were
evaluated for the duration. At Indiantown, 6 and 12 SSB were released on all plants in treatments 1 and 2, respectively; no
YMLB larvae were released because the native population was already quite high. Plants were monitored weekly for
numbers of YMLB and SSB life stages present. At the end of the trial, each plant was rated for percent leaf damage using an
index. Overall, augmentative releases of the predators lowered the incidence of YMLB larvae compared to no release, if the
YMLB population was not too high. Plants on the Vero Beach farm that received predators, suffered significantly less
damage than plants without predators. However at Indiantown, differences in damage ratings among treatments were not as
clear due to the very high infestation of the beetle population. A second field trial assessing augmentative releases of the
spined soldier bug on experimental plots of bok choy crops on these two organic farms will begin in February - March 2014.
AGR-08 Development of simulated landscape soil runoff boxes for examining effects of environmental influences
and management practices on stormwater runoff and leachate. B.J. PEARSON and R.C. BEESON, JR. Department of
Environmental Horticulture, Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, 2725 S. Binion Rd., Apopka,
FL 32703. Despite well-established relationships between urban stormwater runoff and water quality degradation, few studies
have examined influences of landscape management practices on disturbed urban soil hydrology and nutrient discharge.
Confounding variables found in landscapes may be responsible for the lack of available data. To tease out relationships
among these variables, soil runoff boxes with individual volumes of 208 L were developed and backfilled with representative
soils of newly constructed urban landscapes in Central Florida, and placed within an open sided greenhouse. Surface runoff
and leachate were collected independently for each box. Soil moisture within each runoff box was managed independently
using a time domain transmissometry sensor connected to a datalogger and two remote relay controllers. Simulated
precipitation was applied using a unique overhead irrigation system at three historical rates of 2.5, 5.1, and 7.6 cm hr-1.
Environmental and landscape management practice treatments were imposed in order to evaluate the effect on stormwater
runoff and leachate volume and nutrient concentrations. Soil runoff boxes provide an effective method to examine disturbed
urban soil hydrology and nutrient discharge.

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AGR-09 Comparative genomics of Ralstonia solanacearum: looking for cool virulence factors. A.M.
BOCSANCZY(1), J. C. HUGUET-TAPIA(2), D. J. NORMAN.(1). (1) Dept. of Plant Pathology, Univ. of Florida, IFAS-
MREC, 2725 S. Binion Rd. Apopka, FL 32703.(2) Dept. of Plant Pathology, Univ. of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611.
Ralstonia solanacearum is a pathogen that causes bacterial wilt, a soil-borne plant disease which affects more than 200 plant
species including economically important crops such as tomato, potato and tobacco. R. solanacearum is a species complex
with endemic populations in the Southern United States. These bacterial populations in the south have never been able to
establish themselves in temperate climates. A subgroup of R. solanacearum referred to as R3B2, is cold tolerant and able to
infect potato and tomato plants at low temperatures. Although R3B2 strains have been accidentally introduced a number of
times into the US, so far APHIS eradication has always been successful, and populations were not established. R3B2 strains
have been designated as “select agent” under the Agriculture Bioterrorism Protection Act of 2002 due to their threat to US
food security. Several strains that belong to R1B1 (Phylotype II B/sequevar 4) group established in Southern US are able to
cause disease at low temperatures in tomato and in less extent in potato. In previous work we identified proteins that
potentially can contribute to virulence at low temperature of P673, a cool virulent strain in this group and the R3B2 UW551
strain by a comparative proteomics approach with strains that are not cold tolerant. These proteins were present in all strains
compared. The objective of this study is to identify genes present in genomes of cool virulent strains and absent in strains non
pathogenic at low temperatures by using a genomics approach. We sequenced and annotated the genomes of P673 and P597 a
cool-virulent and cool-avirulent strain respectively. Currently we are assembling both genomes using closely related strains
as references and we plan to compare the sequences with other sequenced genomes focusing on regions that code for
temperature dependent virulence factors.
AGR-10 Expanding RNA interference (RNAi) for multi-pest management. W.B.HUNTER (1), E.ANDRADE (2),
E.STOVER (1), J.D. EVANS (3). (1) USDA,ARS, U.S.Hort.Res.Lab, 2001 S. Rock Rd., Ft.Pierce, FL 34945.(2)Brazilian
Agricultural Research Corporation, Embrapa-Labex USA.(3)USDA,ARS, Bee Research Lab, Beltsville MD. 20705.
Devastation by the plant-infecting bacteria, C. Liberibacter asiaticus that causes Huanglongbing, or Citrus Greening Disease,
which ruins fruit quality, reduces yield, and results in tree death causing the loss of millions of dollars and jobs has prompted
interest in new insect pest management strategies, such as RNA interference, RNAi. Citrus trees have several important
Hemiptera insect pests, ie. The Asian Citrus Psyllid, ACP, Diaphorina citri; vector of the bacterial pathogen of Citrus
Greening; the glassy-winged sharpshooter, GWSS, Homalodisca vitripennis, vector of the plant-infecting Xylella fastidiosa
bacterium, and the brown citrus aphid, Toxoptera citricidus, vector of citrus tristeza virus. Current management techniques
require heavy insecticide use, which kills both pests and beneficial insects. RNAi is a natural, immune, cellular, defense
mechanism that allows the cell to recognize and cleave dsRNA, thus preventing viral proteins from being made. Researchers
have figured out how to use this natural RNAi mechanism, which occurs in plants, insects and animals, to target the biology
of these insects in a highly specific manner which is safe for other insects and animals. Thus RNAi has become of great
interest worldwide to address problem in agriculture as well as human medicine. Discussed is the design of a single specific
double-stranded RNA for the potential management of more than one insect pest at a time, while still maintaining specificity
to protect beneficial insects, like honey bees. Psyllids, leafhoppers, and aphids were provided access to citrus seedlings
treated with dsRNA, which targeted a conserved region of a specific messenger RNA transcript. The resulting RNAi effect
was able to reduce the survival of the 3 targeted pest insects, while remaining safe for honey bees which ingested the dsRNA
in a sucrose solution. The bee feeding bioassay evaluated 40 bees fed dsRNA plus a control non-insect dsRNA- for green
fluorescent protein. Emerging adult bees, which remain in the hive for 2 weeks, were marked with colored paint, fed dsRNA,
and returned to the hive for 12 days to monitor mortality under normal conditions. There was no significant bee mortality
between control, water, and dsRNA fed bees. The results suggests that RNAi strategies can be designed to multiple pest
targets while remaining safe for honey bees. Thus RNAi may provide a new, safer means for insect pest management.
AGR Posters
AGR-P01 Non-transgenic RNAi technology to control insects on citrus. E. ANDRADE (1), W.B.HUNTER (2),
D.G.HALL(2), C.RIBERIO (1), J.F.ASTUA (1) Brazilian Agriclutural Research Corporation, Embrapa-Labex USA; (2)
USDA,ARS, U.S. Hort. Research Lab, Fort Pierce,FL 34945. A non-transgenic delivery method was evaluated to apply RNA
interference strategies aimed at stopping the spread of citrus greening disease. The disease is caused by a bacterium, that’s
transmitted by the insect, Asian Citrus Psyllid. RNAi approaches, depend on the natural cellular processes that function as a
“gene silencer”, being triggered by double-stranded RNA, dsRNA, resulting in disruption of the corresponding messenger
RNA thereby preventing protein production. We designed dsRNA molecules, based on the specific gene sequences in two
citrus pest insects, psyllids and leafhoppers and demonstrated that dsRNA will cause increased insect mortality. The dsRNA

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was administered in solution to plant cuttings, to be absorbed and circulate into the plant vascular system. Once the insects
fed on the test plants, they ingest the dsRNA, which goes into the cells, triggering the RNAi process. We observed insect
mortality beginning on the fifth day after feeding on treated plants. The mortality rate varied between 46-90% in accordance
to the specific transcript target selected. The results obtained in this research shows there is potential to build a strategy
based upon RNAi for insect pest management against the Asian citrus psyllid and glassy-winged sharpshooter in citrus crops.
AGR-P02 Implementing an Integrated Pest Management Program for Coffee Berry Borer in a Specialty Coffee
Plantation in Colombia. L. F. ARISTIZABAL (1), O. LARA (2), and S. P. ARTHURS (1). (1) University of Florida/IFAS,
Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, Apopka, FL 32703, USA. (2). Inverisones Perla S. A. Owners, Neiva, Huila,
Colombia. The coffee berry borer (CBB) Hypothenemus hampei (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) is one of the most
serious pest in coffee plantations worldwide. Efforts to establishing an integrated pest management (IPM) program for
control CBB in “La Virginia” farm, producer of specialty coffee, with 110-ha coffee plantation located in Algeciras, Huila,
Colombia. Farm staff, scouts for monitoring, and harvests workers were training about how to control the CBB. The training
program focused on establish a monitoring plan to reduce chemical insecticides and improving the use of biological – base
insecticide (Beauveria bassiana), cultural practices such as efficiently recollection of mature, overripe, and raisin berries to
eliminate the CBB habitats, and finally on postharvest practices to control CBB adults by using screening on coffee process
areas (silos and pulp pits). After three years period the results showed an adoption of the IPM program, reduction of the
chemical insecticides, increase of biological control, improving in the efficiency of recollection, reduction of CBB damage,
reduction of IPM program costs, and increase the proportion of parchment coffee sold as specialty. The quality of parchment
coffee increased (insect damage was 2.3% in 2002 and passed to 0.7% in 2004). In addition, the proportion of harvest sold as
high quality ‘Specialty coffee” increased from 50% to 86% over the same period of time.
AGR-P03 Developing a sustainable management program for the rugose spiraling whitefly in south Florida. A.W.
FRANCIS (1), B. THRELKELD (1), and P.B. AVERY (2). (1) Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,
Division of Plant Industry, 7930 Pruitt Research Center Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34945 (2) UF/IFAS Indian River Research and
Education Center, 2199 South Rock Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34945. The rugose spiraling whitefly is a recently introduced
exotic pest that affects numerous ornamental and landscape plants in south Florida. This pest excretes copious amounts of
honeydew and black soot mold builds up on the plant, surrounding vegetation, and the aesthetic damage to pools, cars,
homes, etc., is very concerning. Present activities to mitigate the effects of this whitefly include surveys to collect, identify,
and document native beneficial insects attacking the pest, evaluating ornamental and landscape plants that are suitable to
mass rear the whitefly and its natural enemies, and investigating the efficacy of candidate species that have shown some
promise to suppress whitefly populations. If successful, we expect to halt the expansion of the rugose spiraling whitefly,
which has spread from Monroe and Miami-Dade to counties as far north as Brevard on the east and Pinellas on the western
side of the state.
AGR-P04 cDNA Cloning and Characterization of Flavanone 3’ Hydroxylase (F3H) Gene From Muscadine Grapes.
J.HALL (1), A.ANANGA (1), V. GEORGIEV(1), J. OCHIENG (2), and V. TSOLOVA(1). (1) Center for Viticulture and
Small Fruit Research, College of Agriculture and Food Science, Florida A&M University, 6505 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee Fl
32317, USA. (2) Faculties of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, P. O. Box 29053 Nairobi, 00625
Kenya. Flavanoids are key antioxidants that produce natural byproducts such as anthocyanin, proanthocyandin, and flavanoid
pigments. Flavanone 3’ Hydroxylase (F3’H) is a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of flavonols, anthocyanindins, and
proanthocyanindins. In this study we report the cloning, and characterization of F3’H gene. The full length cDNA of F3’H
from Vitis rondutifolia (designated as VrF3’H) was isolated and characterized. The full length cDNA of VrF3’H had an open
reading frame (ORF) of 1092 bp encoding 364 amino acids with a calculated molecular mass of 40.8kDa and an isoelectric
point of 5.60. Comparative and in silico analyses revealed that VrF3’H has extensive homology with F3’H from other plant
species. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that VrF3’H belongs to the Vitis F3’H cluster and it is much closer to Vitis vinifera.
Realtime-PCR (RT-PCR) analyses of VrF3’H transcripts showed that the VrF3’H was abundantly expressed in the red cells
of physiologically mature red berries and not expressed in the skins of the green berries. We cloned the F3’H gene from the
Muscadine grape for the first time and the sequence was deposited at the NCBI database (Gene Bank Accession no.
KF040970). This study will provide further resources for the use of functional genomics to improve the production of various
nutraceuticals (healthy compounds) from Muscadine grapes.

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AGR-P05 Ecological Restoration Of Cogongrass (Imperata Cylindrica L) Infested Pine Plantation Following
Imazapyr Herbicide Application. L.D. REID (1), O.U. ONOKPISE (1) and R.S. GRAGG (2). (1) Agronomy, Forestry and
Natural Resources Conservation, College of Agriculture and Food Science, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida
32307, (2) School of the Environment, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida 32307. Cogongrass (Imperata
cylindrica L) is one of the most invasive species in Florida and other Gulf Coast States and poses a major problem on
forested lands, natural habitats, rights-of-way interstate highways. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the
performance of cogongrass after imazapyr herbicide application. Following the application of herbicideto cogongrass sites,
native grass species (Muhly grass, Broomsedge, Switch grass and Citrus Maidencane) were transplanted into the treated areas
two and a half months after herbicide application. The native grass species were allowed to grow in the treated plots and their
performance was evaluated three months after planting to see how they react to residual herbicide which may be present in
the soil and also to see the effects on the pine trees. The re-growth of cogongrass was also evaluated three months after
treatment. Results showed that the herbicide application reduced growth and rhizome extension of cogongrass. The native
grass species survival was evident in the field, with broomsedge, switch grass and maidencane showing the highest numbers
of survival. The herbicide was very effective in killing the cogongrass. Cogongrass population decreased by about 70-98%
following the application of imazapyr. Thus, imazapyr herbicide application maybe a means of control that could impact the
invasiveness of cogongrass, while the native grass species genotypes which show tolerance to the herbicide could be used for
ecological restoration these sites.
AGR-P06 Trap Design For Plecia Nearctica (Diptera: Bibionidae). N. TOFANGSAZI (1), R.H. CHERRY (2) and
S.P. ARTHURS (1). (1) Mid Florida Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Apopka, FL 32703. (2)
Everglades Research and Education Center, University of Florida, Belle Glade, FL 33430. The invasive range of the lovebug,
Plecia nearctica Hardy (Diptera: Bibionidae), includes Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and the southeastern
U.S.A., with a current distribution extending to all states bordering the Gulf of Mexico as well as Georgia and North and
South Carolina (Denmark et al. 2010). In such areas, this insect is well known for its biannual flight periods, where large
numbers of day-flying adults swarming alongside roadways are a nuisance for motorists, due to the splattering of flies on
vehicles. We previously reported that the floral compound phenylacetaldehyde (PAA) and bright yellow or white color were
attractive to both sexes of adult lovebugs, P. nearctica Hardy (Arthurs et al. 2013). The next step is to optimize a trap design
that would allow researchers and pest control specialists to capture large numbers of lovebugs during the flight season of this
insect.
AOS = ATMOSPHERIC AND OCEANOGRAPHIC SCIENCES
AOS-01 Mesozooplankton populations in the Northern Indian River Lagoon (Florida) in the wake of recent Harmful
Algal Blooms. H.G. KOLB, L.H. SWEAT, and K.B. JOHNSON. Florida Institute of Technology, Marine and Environmental
Systems, 150 W. Univ. Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901. Following the 2011 Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Superbloom, a broad
search of causes is being conducted including an ongoing monitoring of mesozooplankton populations (153-µm mesh catch)
throughout the Northern IRL system. Mesozooplankton are being studied as potential top-down regulators of the nuisance
phytoplankton populations. Monitoring is conducted through fortnightly sampling of replicate tows (n=4) of key sites
residing within the IRL near Titusville, the Mosquito Lagoon, and the Banana River. Settled plankton volumes will be
spatially and temporally compared for these sites from July 2013 through March 2014. In addition to differences in volume,
qualitative differences in the type of mesozooplankton dominating different IRL regions will be discussed.
AOS-02 Phototaxis of copepods in relation to derived habitat. X.MA and K. JOHNSON. Department of Marine and
Environmental Systems, Florida Institute of Technology, 150 W. University Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901. We are testing the
phototactic responses of a variety of copepods from different ancestries and habitats. Our Derived Sensitivity Hypothesis
(DSH) states that the sensitivity of copepod photoresponses should match both the available light spectrum and the light
intensity in their habitats. Pelagic and demersal copepods from the orders of Harpacticoida and Calanoida are being chosen to
examine photoresponses under different light conditions. According to the DSH, pelagic copepods living near the surface
should have positive phototaxis and respond to a broad range of color spectra (wavelengths); demersal copepods may exhibit
negative photoresponses or respond to a relatively narrow range of wavelengths. By testing copepods from the orders
Harpacticoida and Calanoida, groups that have adapted to largely different habitats, it is hoped that the role of evolutionary
history can be contrasted with that of the modern or derived habitat.

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AOS-03 A reexamination of diatom attachment: new observations on roughness-driven composition of benthic
diatom communities in the Indian River Lagoon. L.H. SWEAT and K.B. JOHNSON. Florida Institute of Technology,
Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, 150 W. University Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901. Benthic diatoms are a
major component of biofilms that form on surfaces submerged in marine environments. Roughness of the underlying
substratum affects the settlement of both diatoms and subsequent macrofouling colonizers. This study reports the effects of
roughness on diatom communities established in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) on acrylic panels with a range of surface
roughnesses. Smoother substrata exhibited higher cell density, species richness, and diversity. Twenty-three of 58 species
were found either exclusively or more abundantly on the smooth surfaces compared to one or both roughened treatments.
The results suggest a greater ability of benthic diatoms to recruit and colonize smooth surfaces, likely explained by a higher
degree of contact between the cells and the surface. Newly published details on the relationship between surface roughness
and diatom community composition will be discussed, highlighting some common IRL benthic diatom species as examples.
AOS-04 Diatom Community Structure on In-service Ship Hulls. K. ZARGIEL, A. KOKA, and G. SWAIN.
Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, Florida Institute of Technology, 150 West University Blvd, Melbourne
FL, 32901. There are only a few studies that have been published on the settlement of diatoms to ship hulls (Callow 1986,
Woods et al. 1986). More data is needed to better understand the interactions of diatoms with the coating systems and also
the environmental conditions that they experience while a ship is underway. This study investigated the diatom community
structure on two cruise ships with the same cruise cycles, one coated with an antifouling system and the other coated with a
fouling release system. Samples were collected during dry docking in horizontal and vertical zonation along the ship hull,
including niche and damaged areas of the hull. The fouling diatoms Achnanthes, Amphora, and Navicula were the most
common genera regardless of horizontal ship zonation. Other genera were abundant, but the presence was more dependent on
the ship zonation. Navicula was present at all depths along the ship hull, and dominated the biofilms collected along the flats
or underside of the hull. Samples collected from damaged areas of the ship hull showed the community composition to be
similar to undamaged areas but to have a larger diatom abundance. Diatom fouling on the niche areas differed from that of
the surrounding ship hull. Additionally, diatom richness was greater on the ship coating with the fouling release system,
including the identification of several new genera to the biofouling literature: Lampriscus and Thalassiophysa. These results
are the first to describe diatom community composition on in-service ship hulls coated with fouling release systems. These
newer classes of coatings appear to have a larger diatom community compared to the copper based antifouling systems, with
new diatom genera, which have the ability to stick to ship hulls and withstand hydrodynamic forces, creating the potential for
new problematic species in biofilm fouling.
AOS-05 Temporal variation of benthic communities and water quality data at a static immersion test platform north
of Sebastian Inlet in the Indian River Lagoon, Florida. K. LIEBERMAN, K. ZARGIEL, and G. SWAIN. Florida Institute of
Technology, Melbourne, FL 32901. Recruitment and progression in benthic communities are affected by variations in
environmental parameters. This study examines monthly variances in water quality and recruitment of benthic organisms on
30 x 30 cm PVC panels at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) static immersion test platform 5 km north of Sebastian
Inlet. Data have been collected since June 2009 and trends have been observed between water quality changes and benthic
community structure. Understanding the affects of water quality on recruitment is important for identifying indicator species
and the ecological assessment of benthic communities and more specifically the Indian River Lagoon.
AOS-06 The influence of mesh size on the development of fouling communities on non-toxic surface. D.
DALRYMPLE, A. STEPHENS, E. RALSTON, K. LIEBERMAN, and G. SWAIN. Department of Marine and
Environmental Systems, Florida Institute of Technology, 150 West University Blvd, Melbourne FL, 32901. The testing of
fouling release ship hull coatings requires the use of fish exclusion nets to prevent the removal of fouling by predation and
grazing. This research investigated the effect of mesh size on biofouling growth and community structure. Panels coated with
Intersleek 900, a fouling release standard, were randomly assigned to one of three different mesh sizes or a non-caged
control. Visual assessment of fouling was performed bi-weekly over a two month period. Significant differences were found
in the percent cover of specific biofouling organisms and community structure. These results highlight the importance of
mesh size selection for fish exclusion cages during static immersion testing of fouling release coatings.
AOS-07 The effect of frequent cleaning and grooming of a biocide free silicone antifouling coating on fouling
community structure. E. RALSTON and G. SWAIN. Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, Florida Institute of

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9
Technology, 150 W. University Blvd, Melbourne FL, 32901. Ship and boat hulls are often cleaned or proactively groomed to
maintain them free of fouling and in a hydrodynamically smooth and efficient condition. Disturbance has been identified as a
major driver of fouling community structure. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of frequent cleaning and
grooming on fouling community structure and to determine how effective each method is at removing fouling from a
commercial fouling release ship hull coating. Panels were divided into four treatments: cleaned (all fouling removed weekly),
groomed (wiped weekly with a sponge using a consistent normal force), and ungroomed, which had been previously
immersed, and a set of four replicates that had never been immersed (new). Visual assessments were performed weekly.
Treatment was found to affect the composition, richness, evenness and diversity of fouling communities. Differences among
the treatments were found for total macrofouling cover and cover of specific taxa including hydroids, encrusting bryozoans,
barnacles and sponges. Cleaning and grooming differed in their capacity to remove fouling that recruited to surfaces. Cleaned
surfaces had no cover after treatment whereas groomed surfaces often had macrofouling remaining.
AOS-08 Real-time circulation/elevation forecasts for the Indian River Lagoon. A.L.KLEDZIK, R.J. WEAVER, J.
TODD. Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, College of Engineering, Florida Institute of Technology, 150 W.
University Blvd, Melbourne, Florida, 32901. The recent adaptation of an ADCIRC model system has provided new
capabilities for predicting circulation patterns and sea surface elevations within the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) region. A
NWS COMET project spawned the development of the ADCIRC model system for the Brevard County region of the IRL;
which used modified WRF wind fields and pressure data to produce simulated forecasts of the IRL corresponding to the
Hurricane Sandy time period. Results from the NWS COMET project of velocities and sea surface elevations suggest that
there are unique locations within the IRL that demonstrate nodal behavior (areas with little to no change in elevation coupled
with significant flow). Using the ADCIRC Surge Guidance System (ASGS), an automated package allowing for the
prediction of circulation based on either NAM or NHC forecast wind products, a suite of 3.5 day forecast simulations ran
during the spring, summer, and early fall of 2013 producing a collection of simulated water elevations and current velocities
for the IRL. The present study examines the real-time forecast data for significant Nor’easter storm events that may have
been captured, and seeks to compare the ASGS results with the results found from the Hurricane Sandy simulations. We
hypothesize that similar water level response occurs upon excitement by a north-east wind. The analysis of wind events with
comparable strength, duration and direction will refine our understanding of flow and sea surface elevation within the IRL.
Broader impacts of model output include gauging flow between basins, larvae transport prediction, and region susceptibility
to wind driven flooding and wave action. Further research is intended to validate the model through the deployment of
current profilers in regions of interest.
AOS-09 Florida’s Rising Sea Level. G.A. MAUL, Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, Florida
Institute of Technology, 150 West University Boulevard, Melbourne Florida 32901. The geological record shows that global
sea level has been rising for the last 20,000+ years at rates ranging from 1-10 mm/year, and has submerged Florida’s pre-
Holocene coast by over 120 meters. The instrumental record was started in Key West in 1845 (America’s longest
instrumental sea level record), but had many gaps until 1913, after which it is continuous; the rate of rise is 2.3±0.1 mm/year
(0.75±0.07 feet per century), and is quite steady. Observations by tide gauges such as at Key West are termed relative sea
level because the measurement is the combination of eustatic sea level change, vertical land movement (Florida’s vertical
land movement is 0 to +1 mm/year), currents, wind, barometric pressure, tides, etc. For the ensemble of all near century-long
Florida records (Pensacola [2.2 mm/year], Cedar Key [1.9 mm/year], St. Petersburg [2.5 mm/year], Key West [2.3 mm/year],
Miami Beach [2.2 mm/year], Mayport [2.4 mm/year], and Fernandina Beach [2.2 mm/year]) the average rate of rise is
2.3±0.2 mm/year. At Key West during 1913-2012, the coefficient of determination for the linear fit is r2
=0.8892, for a
logarithmic fit it is r2
=0.8891, and for a second-order polynomial it is r2
=0.8893. Thus there is no statistically significant
evidence of accelerated sea level rise in Florida over the past century. Guidance for estimating future sea level from NOAA
and from the US Army Corps of Engineers relies on using projections of global sea level adapted to a local site; such federal
criteria for Florida would place sea level in 2100 anywhere from 0.25 to 2.0 meters (0.8-6.6 feet) above the present level;
IPCC projections are between 0.28 – 1.0 meters (0.9-3.3 feet) by 2100. Choosing the correct curve is the next challenge, but
should be constrained within the context that global sea level rose about 10 mm/year during the maximum deglaciation
18,000-8,000 years before the present.
AOS-10 Florida Environs In Situ Sea Surface Temperature Trends. A.K. NICKERSON and G.A. MAUL.
Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, Florida Institute of Technology, 150 West University Boulevard,
Melbourne Florida 32901. Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) from COADS (Combined Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set) for the

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environs of Florida, including the Gulf of Mexico, were investigated for the period 1960-2012. Annual average SSTs were
calculated for each one-degree latitude by one-degree longitude box from the COADS monthly values. Trends were
calculated by linear least squares for all 179 COADS boxes using the annual averages; the mean and standard deviation trend
of the ensemble of 179 boxes is +0.43 ± 0.84 ºC per century. Thirty nine (39) of the 179 boxes had NDBC (NOAA National
Data Buoy Center) buoys; the rest did not. Boxes with buoys were compared to juxtaposed boxes without buoys to ascertain
if the buoy sampling system led to differences in SST trends. For the 39 boxes with buoys, the mean trend was +0.50 ± 1.16
°C/century; for the 39 juxtaposed boxes without buoys it was +0.58 ± 0.93 °C/century; for the remaining 140 boxes the
statistics were +0.41 ± 0.73 ºC/century. From a T-test between the mean trend in buoyed boxes and non-buoyed boxes it was
determined that there is no statistically significant difference in sea surface temperature trends between boxes with NDBC
buoys and juxtaposed boxes without buoys. The coefficient of determination between the 39 pairs of buoyed boxes versus
non-buoyed boxes, however, had R2=0.09 revealing that there is little relationship between them.
AOS-11 Modeling El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO): Interplay of memory and delayed-action effects. D.
QUESADA, School of Science, Technology and Engineering Management, St. Thomas University, 16401 NW 37 Ave.
Miami Gardens, FL 33054. ENSO is one of the most important dynamical processes impacting the weather conditions in
many parts of the World. It involves a right tuning of the ocean-atmosphere interaction as well as the teleconnection with
other global oscillations as the Maddean-Julian Oscillation (MJO), and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). The prediction
of ENSO and its periodicities is still a challenge for Global Circulation Models (GCM) as well as Regional Meso-scale
Models (RMM). Several alternative approaches based on toy mathematical models have been adopted within the scientific
community in order to understand basic mechanisms leading to the appearance of ENSO and its periodicities. In this sense,
the Delayed Action Oscillator (DAO) has played a central role. Even though such a model has been capable to describe some
general features of ENSO, it is unable to reproduce others. Motivated by these facts, the author has extended the DAO model
by incorporating memory effects in addition to a cubic non-linear dissipative and delayed action terms. Such a model is
referred as the DAOM, DAO model with memory. Solutions of the later were obtained for different combination of
parameters as well as were investigated for sensitivity to constant heating and periodic noise. It is noteworthy that constant
heating is a surrogate of global warming, while the periodic noise might account for periodic noisy changes due to solar cycle
variability. Comparison with ENSO index history and predictions from NOAA is carried on.
AOS Posters
AOS-P01 The effects of grooming on the recruitment of macrofouling to damaged silicone fouling release surfaces.
K. LIEBERMAN, E. RALSTON, A. STEPHENS, and G. SWAIN. Florida Institute of Technology, 150 West University
Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901. Silicone fouling release systems are now being applied as biocide free coatings to commercial
ships. They function by reducing the adhesion strength of organisms to the surface, but under certain operational conditions
they may become fouled. One method being developed to prevent fouling is by the use of proactive gentle cleaning
(grooming). Silicone coating systems are also weak and therefore easily damaged. These damaged areas foul readily. This
study investigated the effect of mechanical damage on coating performance and how proactive grooming may slow
macrofouling recruitment to those damaged areas. A total of 28 polyvinyl chloride (PVC) panels cut to 10 cm by 20 cm were
used giving 4 replicates of 7 treatments including controls. Test panels were coated with a three-part silicone fouling release
system (epoxy, tie-coat, and top-coat respectively). The test panels were artificially damaged to two widths (0.3 cm and 1.3
cm) and to different depths exposing the tie-coat and epoxy layers of the coating system. The damage area was 18.75 percent
of the total surface area. The panels were groomed weekly using a handheld rotating brush and assessed visually (ASTM
6990) monthly. The results demonstrated that organisms preferentially recruit to damaged areas on silicone coating systems.
Grooming slows but does not inhibit recruitment of fouling to damaged areas.
AOS-P02 Connectivity of reef fishes between mangroves and coral reefs in Broward County, Florida. J. SAVARO
(1), A. HIRONS (2), D. KERSTETTER (1), and T. SUTTON (1). (1) Nova Southeastern University, Oceanographic Center,
8000 N. Ocean Dr., Dania Beach, FL 33004, (2) Nova Southeastern University, Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences, 3301
College Avenue, Fort Lauderdale-Davie, FL 33314. Many ecological and recreationally important species of marine fishes
use the mangrove ecosystem for foraging, protection, spawning and as a nursery habitat. This study examined the
ontogenetic migration and trophic connectivity of reef fishes in Broward County, Florida to develop a better understanding of
energy flow between the local mangrove and coral reef ecosystems. Four species of reef fishes – grey snapper Lutjanus
griseus, bluestriped grunt Haemulon sciurus, yellowfin mojarra Gerres cinereus, and great barracuda Sphyraena barracuda –
were collected both from mangrove sites located adjacent to Port Everglades and coral reef sites located nearby offshore of

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Port Everglades in Broward County. All species were analyzed using 13C and 15N ratios from muscle tissues and 18O and
13C ratios from otoliths to evaluate ontogenetic migrations, foraging, and occupation within the mangrove and reef sites.
Preliminary d18O and d13C otolith data indicated mangroves to be more enriched than offshore reef habitats. Food sources
found in the mangroves are expected to be more enriched in 13C and 15N due to more recycling of nutrients. This study will
help clarify the relative importance of the various habitats essential for early life-history stages of reef fishes.
AOS-P03 The Indian River Lagoon Research Institute: Integrating Scientists, Engineers, and Educators to Improve
and Sustain Lagoon Health. L.H. SWEAT, K.A. ZARGIEL, K.B. JOHNSON, and R.J. WEAVER. Florida Institute of
Technology, Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, 150 West University. Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901.
Today’s problems in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) have evolved through a complex set of interrelated issues that have led
to the decline of lagoon health. The Indian River Lagoon Research Institute (IRLRI) was recently established at the Florida
Institute of Technology with the mission to develop and implement sustainable solutions for the revitalization and
maintenance of the IRL. A group of more than 20 faculty members with decades of scientific research experience in the IRL
have come together to improve understanding and develop solutions in the following areas: muck and nutrients, lagoon flow,
nutrient reduction, sediment loading, ecosystem recovery, policy and management, and engineering technologies. Part of the
mission of the IRLRI also includes outreach and education to help the community and lagoon stakeholders understand the
importance of IRL problems and their role in creating solutions. The IRLRI is striving to collaborate with numerous
institutions and agencies along the lagoon with the common goal of improving the IRL system.
AOS-P04 Ocean 180 Video Challenge: Turning Research Papers into Digital Stories. M. WATSON (1), M.
BUCKLEY (2), L. DIEDERICK (3), J. WINDSOR (1), and R. TANKERSLEY (1). (1) Department of Marine and
Environmental Systems, College of Engineering, Florida Institute of Technology 150 W. University Blvd, Melbourne, FL
32901, (2) COSEE Florida, Indian River State College, 3209 Virginia Ave, Fort Pierce, FL 34981, (3) Smithsonian Marine
Station at Fort Pierce, 701 Seaway Dr, Fort Pierce, FL 34949. Ocean scientists conduct exciting, ground-breaking research
that addresses many of world’s greatest challenges. Yet, far too often the importance, meaning and implications of their
discoveries are never shared with non-scientists. Recognizing the need for scientists to communicate more effectively with
the general public, the Florida Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence (COSEE Florida) saw an opportunity to
connect the two through video. In the fall 2013, COSEE Florida launched the Ocean 180 Video Challenge to tap into the
competitive spirit of scientists and inspire them to share their discoveries with the public. Scientists from US-based
institutions were encouraged to submit 180 second videos summarizing the important findings of a recent peer-reviewed
paper and highlighting the relevance, meaning, and implications of the research to persons outside their discipline. Videos
were initially screened by science/communication experts, yet the winners were selected by middle school students from
around the world. The presentation will review the outcomes and lessons learned from the competition and describe plans to
utilize the videos for professional development/ training and educational purposes.
BIO = BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
BIO-01 Spatial-temporal overlap and resource partitioning in larval fish assemblages of the northern Indian River
Lagoon. M.J. SONNEFELD, E.A. REYIER, R.G. TURINGAN. Department of Biological Sciences, 150 West University
Blvd, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL 32901. The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) has one of the most diverse fish
assemblages in North America; it contains over 400 species of fish. Not only does it serve as an important nursery, but also as
a breeding ground for many species. While there has been much research on the interactions and distribution of adult fishes
in the IRL, little is known about how the ichthyoplankton community is structured spatially and temporally. Most
importantly, how these spatial-temporal interactions influence the assemblage has not been fully addressed. It has been
previously shown that seasonal variation in larval assemblages occurs and there is little variation across years. The goal of
this study is to address three questions to better understand the variation in the larval fish assemblage: 1) Does the larval fish
assemblage in the northern IRL change spatially and temporally? 2) What are the environmental factors that drive the spatial
and temporal variation in the larval fish assemblage? 3) What are the plausible biological mechanisms that drive the spatial
and temporal variation in the larval fish assemblage of the northern IRL? To address these questions bi-weekly
ichthyoplankton tows were collected between the southern Mosquito Lagoon and the southern Banana River from August
2002 to July 2004. The abundances of 60 species of larval fishes were compared spatially and temporally using ANOSIM.
The CCA examined the correspondence between fish abundance and six environmental variables. The potential partitioning
of resources across species through the use of Hurlbert’s Index was established. Seasonal shifts in the environmental drivers

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of the assemblage occurred and a large amount of spatial-temporal overlap in the larval fishes, but little to no potential for
interspecific competition of available resources.
BIO-02 Linking Floodplain Forest Community Structure with Environmental Factors Using Multivariate Analysis:
A Case Study of the North Fork of the St. Lucie River. M. HEDGEPETH, South Florida Water Management District, 3301
Gun Club Road, West Palm Beach, FL,33406, The North Fork of the St. Lucie River has been highly impacted by
stabilization of St. Lucie Inlet, dredging and straightening of the river channel, placement of berms in the floodplain, and
digging of many drainage canals. In a 2009 floodplain vegetation study, we identified and enumerated 16 canopy, 40 shrub
and 76 groundcover species. Six major forest types were identified including uplands, hydric hammock, bottomland
hardwood, fresh and saltwater swamps, and marsh. The floodplain forest appeared to be relatively young with an influx of
white mangrove in tidal swamp areas and older specimens of oaks and cabbage palms on the berms. Mixed communities of
hammock and bottomland hardwood species were most prevalent due to poor hydrological conditions behind the berms.
Using Canonical Correspondence Analysis, we were able to group vegetative species by salt tolerance and soil moisture
preference to provide guidance for future floodplain hydrological restoration work.
BIO-03 Computer simulation of green fluorescent protein dynamics. T.M. ADAMS. College of Arts and Sciences,
University of South Florida St. Petersburg, 140 7th Ave S, St Petersburg, FL 33701. Using computer simulations, the
configuration of this protein was completed using a Visual Molecular Dynamics (VMD) software and is now currently being
tested for determination of energy minimization states. The current model showed that three amino acid sequences found in
the center of the protein are responsible for emitting light. Future research will hope to simulate the entire light-emitting
process.
BIO-04 The role of HoxB13 in scarless wound healing process. A. GIOSEFFI. Biology Deparment, Indian River
State College, 3209 Virginia Ave, Fort Pierce, FL, 34981. Homeobox gene, HoxB13 has been reported to play a role in the
process of scarless wound healing. This process is only seen during the first two trimesters of development in human.
Compared with adult skin, HoxB13 is found to be differentially expressed in fetal skin and substantially down regulated in
fetal wounds. The most compelling study came from the HOXB13 knockout mice where the cutaneous wound healing is fetal
like with reduced scar formation. Here we investigated the mechanism of action of HOXB13 in wound healing process using
Rat Epithelial Keratinocyte (REK). This rat epidermal keratinocyte (REK) line exhibits histodifferentiation that is nearly
identical to the native epidermis when cultured at air-liquid interface, thus selected as our epidermal differentiation model.
We first investigated subcellular location of HOXB13 in REK cells using GFP-HOXB13 fusion protein and found HOXB13
is a nuclear protein. We then proceeded to study the effect of HOXB13 expression on REK epidermal differentiation and
found epidermal cell proliferation is decreased, apoptosis increased, and excessive terminal differentiation observed. Scratch
wound assays are being performed to probe the effect of HOXB13 on REK cell migration activity. Our preliminary results
suggest that Hoxb13 functions to promote epidermal differentiation, a critical process for skin regeneration. Detailed results
will be presented.
BIO-05 Primary neuronal cultures from the brainstem of adult zebrafish: a novel in vitro tool to study axonal
growth across inhibitory chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans. D. DIAZ MARTIN (1), R. PIERRE (1), I. CHACON RIVERO
(1), F.S. SHABAZZ (1), K. VAJN (2), A. TAPANES-CASTILLO (1), M. OUDEGA (2), J.A. PLUNKETT (1). (1) St.
Thomas University, Miami Gardens, FL 33054. (2) University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. In
the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), axons fail to regenerate after injury due to the presence of inhibitory
molecules such as chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs). In contrast, adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) are capable of CNS
axon regeneration. Specific populations of brainstem neurons can regenerate axons beyond a spinal cord lesion despite the
presence of CSPGs. To investigate the axonal growth response of zebrafish brainstem neurons to CSPGs, we developed and
characterized a novel, primary culture system. We hypothesized that brainstem neurons would respond distinctively to
CSPGs in vitro. Our data demonstrate that one population was inhibited, while others had the ability to grow on or extend
neurite-like processes across CSPGs. To further explore genes involved in overcoming inhibitory environments, we have also
begun to investigate the effects of a pre-conditioning spinal cord injury (SCI) on axonal outgrowth in vitro. Data indicate that
pre-conditioned brainstem neurons extend neurites into CSPG areas at a higher frequency than control neurons from
uninjured fish. We hypothesize that a pre-conditioning SCI lesion enriches the expression profiles of genes involved in
overcoming inhibitory environments within descending brainstem neurons. Our hypothesis is that the ability or disability of a
neurite to grow across CSPGs is intrinsic to the neuron and likely involves unique sets of axon growth-related genes.
Furthermore, we have extended our studies through the use of cell culture well inserts to further exploit our versatile model

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system. These inserts, which effectively isolate cell bodies from neuronal processes, will allow us to compare gene
expression in axons versus cell bodies of brainstem neurons cultured under different conditions, including exposure to
different substrates, cell types, and pre-conditioning injuries. (Funded by U.S. Department of Defense W81XWH-11-1-0645
awarded to J.A. Plunkett).
BIO-06 The effects of calcium on patient's oral bacteria who have moderate periodontal disease. H. KLERK and I.
DUFFY. Department of Math and Science, Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52, Saint Leo, FL, 33574. It is generally
accepted by dentists that smokers have a higher risk of developing periodontal disease in contrast to nonsmokers. Studies
have shown that smokers have elevated levels of calcium in their saliva when compared to non-smokers. It is hypothesized
that elevated levels of calcium in a periodontal patient’s saliva will increase the number of periodontal associated bacteria.
The purpose of this study is to determine what effect, if any; elevated levels of calcium may have on the microbial
environment of periodontal associated bacteria. This study uses quantitative RT-PCR to identify and quantify species of
bacteria that are commonly found in patients with periodontal disease. Along with typing and quantifying the bacteria
present, the levels of calcium in the saliva of the volunteers are measured with a calcium sensitive electrode. Volunteers were
selected for this experiment to include smokers with moderate periodontal disease, non-smokers with periodontal disease,
and non-smokers who do not have periodontal disease.
BIO-07 Understanding the dynamic interactions between Halimeda opuntia and the bacterial community associated
with the crustose coralline alga Hydrolithon boergesenii. S.J. HARRISON, L.J. HOUK, J.M. SNEED, and V.J. PAUL.
Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce, 701 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34949. Algal overgrowth on Caribbean coral
reefs may have far reaching impacts on coral reef dynamics, including on benthic bacterial communities, which have been
shown to play an important role in the recruitment of reef-building corals. Understanding the mechanisms of these algal-
bacterial interactions may illuminate how algal growth can influence ecological interactions on coral reefs. This three part
study explores the impact of the chemically rich, green macroalga Halimeda opuntia on marine bacteria isolated from the
crustose coralline alga Hydrolithon boergesenii. Field experiments, in which live H. boergesenii and its natural assemblage
of bacteria were exposed to live H. opuntia, showed that there was a significant change in the CCA-associated bacterial
communities in the presence of the alga. We hypothesize that this shift in the CCA-associated bacterial assemblage stems
from the presence of bioactive compounds produced by H. opuntia. To better understand this interaction, we isolated bacteria
from the surface of H. boergesenii and measured the growth of the individual strains exposed to live H. opuntia and to
extracts from H. opuntia, including both surface and bulk extracts at natural concentrations.
BIO-08 Teetering on the edge? Evaluation of nutrient enrichment in the Great White Heron National Wildlife
Refuge, Florida Keys. L. GREEN and B. LAPOINTE. Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University,
5600 US Highway 1, Ft. Pierce, FL, 34982. The intertidal and subtidal seagrass habitat within the Great White Heron
National Wildlife Refuge (GWHNWR) provides critical ecosystem services and functions as an important conservation area
for hundreds of species of invertebrates, fish, sea turtles and wading birds. Anthropogenic nutrient enrichment, resulting in
phytoplankton and macroalgal blooms, has long been established as a major contributor of seagrass decline worldwide.
However, despite evidence of nutrient enrichment, total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) for nutrients have not been
established for the Keys. To inform TMDL implementation, numeric nutrient criteria (NNC) were established throughout
Florida in 2012. In 2012-2013, we collected water column nutrients, macroalgal tissue nutrients, chlorophyll-a as well as
estimates of seagrass epiphyte cover. We collected samples from Howe Key, Water Keys and Upper Harbor Key seasonally
over a one year period. We also quantified Thalassium testudinum tissue nutrients in one season. We found that annual total
nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations slightly exceeded the NNC for the Back Bay and Back Shelf
sections. Furthermore, elevations in nitrogen and phosphorus during winter coincided with epiphyte blooms documented in
winter and the following spring. We did not find evidence of corresponding increased chlorophyll-a concentrations, nor did
our values exceed the NNC for chlorophyll-a. However, combined with previously collected data at Upper Harbor Key, our
work suggested that the GWHNWR may have been on the tipping point of eutrophication. If nutrient enrichment increases to
the Keys then a system already on the edge may find itself in crisis.
BIO-09 To seed or not to seed, that is the question: seagrass distribution and abundance within the IRL. A.M.
KESSLER and D. HANISAK. HBOI-Marine Biology, Florida Atlantic University 5600 U.S. 1 North, Ft. Pierce, FL 34946.
Seagrasses are fully submersed, marine angiosperms that provide crucial ecological functions. Yet, seagrass communities in
the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), Florida, and elsewhere have been in decline as a result of point and non-point source
pollution. The major factor in seagrass decline in the IRL can be associated with the degradation of water quality, which has
been influenced by human urbanization. Monitoring projects, restoration, and inquiries into the resilience of these declining

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14
seagrass communities have been initiated due to the detrimental effects of human-caused and environmental sources.
Therefore, a small-scale monitoring project was conducted throughout the central IRL, using traditional transect methods in
order to observe trends based on spatial gradients, water depth, seagrass bed length, sparseness, and abundance, and any
factor that might be affecting the growth and distribution of these seagrasses. A second component of the study incorporates
observations on seagrass reproduction and recovery potential from environmental stressors via seed development and
germination. In terms of percent coverage, shoot counts, canopy height, and overall transect length, the Southern sites had
higher averages for almost every species of seagrass and for totals of all species compared to the Northern sites. Throughout
the ten sites that were monitored, a seed bank was identified as being present. However, the abundance of seeds found was
smaller than that found according to many other studies dealing with seed banks. Further inquiries into both aspects of the
study would allow for a better understanding of the distribution, abundance, and relationships between seagrass beds, seed
bank characteristics, and the surrounding environment.
BIO-10 Twenty years of benthic monitoring in Tampa Bay: 1993-2012. D. J. KARLEN, T. L. DIX, B. K.
GOETTING, S. E. MARKHAM, K.W.CAMPBELL and J M. JERNIGAN. Environmental Protection Commission of
Hillsborough County, 3629 Queen Palm Drive, Tampa, FL 33619. The Environmental Protection Commission of
Hillsborough County has been conducting benthic monitoring in Tampa Bay since 1993. The monitoring program was
initiated by the Tampa Bay National Estuary Program as part of the Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan for
Tampa Bay. The monitoring program incorporates a stratified random design in which Tampa Bay is divided into seven
geographical segments and each segment is overlaid with a sampling grid. A randomly generated sampling point is selected
within each grid cell. Samples are collected annually during the late summer using a Young-modified Van Veen grab
(sampling area =0.04m2
). Field sampling is done in cooperation with Manatee and Pinellas counties. Over the twenty year
period 1993-2012 a total of 1,572 samples were processed and over 1,600 benthic macroinvertebrate taxa were identified.
The benthic community structure was variable from year to year and there were differences between bay segments. Physical
factors that most strongly influenced the community structure were salinity and sediment composition. There was a spatial
trend of increasing species richness from the upper to lower segments of the bay which corresponded to increasing salinity
and decreasing % silt+clay content. Temporal changes were also correlated with salinity with lower diversity and changes in
species composition being observed in lower salinity years.
BIO-11 Thermal preferences and critical temperatures of invasive lionfish complex (Pterois volitans/P. miles). B.D.
BARKER (1), A.Z. HORODYSKY (2), and D.W. KERSTETTER (1). (1) Nova Southeastern University Oceanographic
Center, 8000 N. Ocean Dr., Dania Beach, FL 33004; (2) Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton
University, 100 E. Queen St., Hampton, VA 23668. Temperature preference and limits were determined for locally captured,
juvenile lionfish at four different acclimation temperatures (13°C, 20°C, 25 °C and 32°C). Temperature preferences were
evaluated using an automated shuttlebox system that presents temperature stimuli in a subject-driven fashion. The shuttlebox
system circulates two temperatures of water within a dumbbell-shaped tank, maintaining a difference of 3°C between sides.
Movement of the subject to the “warm” tank increased temperature stimulus; movements to the “cold” side decreased
temperature stimuli in both tanks (maintaining the 3°C differential). Subjects move between hot and cold sides, behaviorally
thermoregulating within preferred temperature ranges. Critical thermal methodology was used to determine the CTmin and
CTmax of the fish, with loss of equilibrium as the endpoint. Temperature was increased or decreased by 0.33°C per minute
until the end point was reached. Thermal tolerance polygons will provide a visual representation to the lower and upper
thermal avoidance temperatures of the invasive lionfish, delineating the preferred thermal range of the species. A species’
thermal preference and tolerance are important mechanistic drivers affecting behavior and geographic distribution and thus
are relevant to fisheries management. Thermal preference data could assist lionfish population management in pinpointing
abundance hotspots, allowing removal efforts to be more efficient. Thermal tolerance describes the range in which lionfish
can survive, and how this range changes with acclimation temperature. Due to increasing ocean temperatures, the current
range of the invasive lionfish could expand geographically into higher latitudes, similar to expectations for native tropical
fishes, with unknown implications for ecosystem processes.
BIO-12 Effects of heat treatment on gene expression of several heat shock proteins in two strawberry cultivars.
R.A. BROWN (1), H. WANG (2), and W.W. TURECHEK (2). (1) Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences,
Indian River State College, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Ft. Pierce, FL 32981, (2) USDA-ARS, United States Horticulture
Research Laboratory, 2001 S. Rock Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34945. Xanthomonas fragariae is a bacterium that causes angular
leaf spot (ALS) in strawberry. ALS primarily affects the foliage, however the bacterium can move systemically through the
plant’s vascular bundle. Heat treatment has been shown to be an effective method for reducing systemic pathogens but the

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15
process often has adverse effects on plant health. Research has shown that a brief heat treatment at lower temperature prior to
the main heat treatment can induce heat shock proteins in plants, which serve to protect the plant from damage when treated
at higher temperatures. The objective of this study was to determine the gene expression of ten heat shock protein (HSP)
genes in two strawberry cultivars (Festival and Ventana) known to have differential tolerance to heat. These HSP genes
include: Hsf-1 (2 genes), Hsp90 (1 gene), Hsp70 (2 genes) and sHsps (5 genes). Strawberry plants were heat treated at 37 C
for one hour to induce the heat shock response. Total RNA was extracted from the treated plants and a set of control plants
and qRT-PCR was used to determine the gene expression of the ten target genes encoding HSPs. Results showed that several
HSP genes (one Hsf-1 and three sHsp) were up-regulated at a significantly higher fold in Festival but only one gene,
sHsp15.96, was expressed at significantly higher fold in Ventana (P<0.05). Results of this study have identified candidate
genes that may confer heat tolerance in strawberry which may be useful for selecting heat tolerant plants in breeding
programs. However, additional research should quantify HSPs induced by heat treatment at the protein level and confirm
functions of these genes through “knock out”/overexpression studies.
BIO-13 RNAi based silencing of a DNA repair gene to induce UV sensitivity in Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae. N.
AUNG, A. SCHULTHEIS AND D. STOCK. Department of Biology, Stetson University, 421 N. Woodland Blvd, DeLand,
FL 32723. Aedes aegypti mosquito is a vector of infectious diseases such as Dengue, Chikungunya and Yellow fevers. As the
mosquito has acquired resistance to traditionally used chemical pesticides, finding new ways to control the mosquito is
necessary. Since the mosquito is prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world, UV radiation from the sun can be
a reliable source to control the mosquito. In this experiment, we showed that the mosquito possesses Ercc1 gene that plays
important role in nucleotide excision repair. Deficiency of the gene in humans results in photosensitivity. Therefore, we
hypothesized that down regulation of the gene will make A. aegypti larvae sensitive to UV radiation from the sun. Such down
regulation is achieved by feeding the mosquito larvae with E. coli strain HT115 (DE3) transformed with L4440 plasmid
containing A. aegypti Ercc1 insert producing double stranded RNA of the gene. As the mosquito larvae feed on Ercc1
dsRNA, RNA interference (RNAi) effect lowers Ercc1 expression in the mosquito larvae. We showed that A. aegypti larvae
with down-regulated Ercc1 expression are highly sensitive to UV radiation. Therefore we believe that bacteria mediated
feeding method of dsRNA can become a sustainable and economical way to control A. aegypti mosquito. (The research was
supported by Stetson Undergraduate Research Education Grant and Raymond beyond the Classroom Grant).
BIO-14 A Study on the Specificity of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus Detection Methods. C.R. NEWCOME.
Department of Biology. Indian River State College, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL 34981. In the quest to culture
Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (Las), contaminating bacteria seemed to be the only successful thing cultured, despite
many efforts. These cultures produced positive outcomes for Las according to the real time polymerase chain reaction and
fluorescence in situ hybridization results. This study has been conducted to see if the primers and probes used to detect Las
also detect other bacteria present. It is significant to determine if any other bacteria are infecting the citrus, as well as Las,
contributing to the overall effects of the disease. To test this hypothesis, this experiment was designed to perform the
detection methods currently used in detecting Las on various common bacteria. Through the use of polymerase chain reaction
(conventional and real-time) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), it can be determined if the Las primers and probes
specifically amplify only the target Las bacteria DNA. The assays included real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) using
the Li primers and fluorescence in situ hybridization that targets the Las 16S rRNA gene using newly designed probes. The
bacteria studied included Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Xanthomonas axonopodis, and Staphylococcus aureus. These
bacteria were chosen not only because cultures are readily available, but also because they are abundant in the environment in
which citrus greening is occurring. This study has shown that the Li primers for qPCR are specific to Candidatus
Liberibacter asiaticus and did not amplify any other bacteria DNA. The FISH probes hybridized to Bacillus subtilis and to
Staphylococcus aureus. This indicates further investigating must be done if one requires a more specific detection method.
(Project supported by Mark Hilf, PhD at the USDA).
BIO-15 Oryzalin-induced polyploidy in diploid Hippeastrum cultivars. L. DE SOUZA (1), J.J. STERVIL (1), L.
CORNELIO (1), A. MEEROW (2), D.P. MAUL(1). (1) St. Thomas University, School of Science, Technology and
Engineering Management, 16401 NW 37th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33054. (2) USDA-ARS-SHRS, 13601 Old Cutler
Road, Miami, FL 33158. Hippeastrum (amaryllis), a bulbous ornamental plant of economic importance because of its
vibrant flower colors and large-sized blossoms, are mostly tetraploid hybrids. Diploid interspecific hybrids are good
candidates for introducing novel traits in tetraploid commercial cultivars. In order to overcome cross-fertilization barriers
between the two ploidy levels, as well as overcome self-incompatibility at the diploid level, it is necessary to first induce
tetraploidy in diploid Hippeastrum plants. One procedure to induce chromosome doubling consists on exposing tissues to

7-8 March 2014
16
antimitotic agents, such as oryzalin (3,5-dinitro-n-n-dipropylsulfanilamide). In this study, we tested the response of
secondary multiplication bulblet explants of a diploid Hippeastrum cultivar to 0, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1 and 0.2% oryzalin at
various exposure periods for poliploidy induction. After 14 weeks in culture, plantlets derived from treated bulblets were
analyzed by flow cytometry to determine their ploidy level. Our results showed tetraploidy induction in Hippeastrum with
0.2% oryzalin after 4 or 7 days of exposure. Various mixoploids were produced in all treatments. This study provides a new
methodology for chromosome doubling in Hippeastrum that may be used in selected cultivars and possibly extrapolated to
other ornamental flower bulbs.
BIO-16 The Influence of HIDE Overexpression on M1/M2 Activation States in RAW Cells. JES. ROBINSON
(1,2), D. LEE (1), K. NASH (1), and I. DUFFY (2). (1) Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, University of
South Florida, 4001 E. Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33613. (2) Department of Math and Sciences, Saint Leo University, 33701
S.R. 52, Saint Leo, FL 33574. Macrophages are key mediators of the inflammatory response and are implicated in a diverse
number of diseases. Macrophages may take on varying phenotypes indicative of their environment and the macrophage
function. In classical activation (M1), macrophage phagocytic and proinflammatory properties make them important in
destroying pathogens directly as well as stimulating other leukocytes to aid in the immune response. Alternative activation
(M2) states may serve to fight larger pathogens, remodel the extracellular matrix, repair damaged cells/tissues or regulate
inflammation via cytokines and chemokines. Given the essential role of macrophages, some diseases are believed to be
agitated or caused, at least in part, by aberrant activation states. For example, one hypothesis of Alzheimer’s disease purports
the refusal of the immune system to revert macrophages from an M1-proinflammatory state to an anti-inflammatory M2 state.
Recent microarray data has implicated, among others, a novel protein, HIDE-1, that may play a role in regulating an M1
phenotype, specifically in the mouse hippocampus. Here we present data generated from the overexpression of a HIDE-1-
containing expression vector in RAW 264.7 cells. Effects of the expression of HIDE-1 in those cells, following inducement
of either M1 or M2, was examined using RT- qPCR and western blot analysis. (Research funded by the Byrd Alzheimer’s
Institute, Tampa, FL 33613 and Saint Leo University, Saint Leo, FL 33574)
BIO-17 A whale of a tale: rod monochromacy in the balaenid whale retina. L.E. SCHWEIKERT (1), M.S. GRACE
(1), J.I. FASICK (2). (1) Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL 32901, (2)
Department of Biological Science, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Until now, it was
believed that vision in all mammals occurs through “duplex” retinae containing both rod and cone photoreceptors, the signals
from which are processed through cone- and/or rod-specific retinal interneuron pathways. Recent investigations, however,
have determined that several cetacean families possess mutations in their single long-wavelength sensitive (LWS) cone opsin
gene likely resulting in a condition unique among mammals known as rod monochromacy. Natural and artificial loss-of-
function mutations in mammalian opsin genes are reported to cause massive photoreceptor loss and large-scale remodeling of
the mammalian retina. Here we investigated the cellular organization of the bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) retina to
determine how this unprecedented functional loss of an entire mammalian photoreceptor class affects light signaling
pathways in the retina. Sequencing was performed for cDNA derived from cone opsin mRNA in balaenid whales. Light
microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and anti-opsin immunofluorescence were used to characterize retinal
architecture and to determine the photoreceptor types in B. mysticetus. In addition, bipolar cell immunofluorescence (against
PKC-α and recoverin) was used to identify bipolar cell types in the B. mysticetus retina. Genetic analyses indicates the severe
truncation of the single cone opsin (long-wavelength-sensitive) mRNA in the B. mysticetus retina, indicating loss of cone cell
function, but maintenance of a non-photosensitive, opsin-expressing cone-like cell in the retina. Immunofluorescence,
histological and ultrastructural analyses indicate the complete loss of LWS cone outer segments in the balaenid whale retina,
suggesting the total loss of cone-based photoreception, but maintenance of cone soma and cone bipolar cells. These findings
show for the first time a rod-monochromatic mammalian retina, and suggest that despite the loss of cone-mediated
photoreception, the associated cone signaling machinery may be functionally maintained for multi-channel rod-based
signaling in balaenid whales. (Funding provided by the National Marine Fisheries Service and NSF Graduate Research
Fellowship)
BIO-18 Retinal Mapping of Rod and Cone Photoreceptors in two Western Atlantic Seahorses: Hippocampus
erectus and H. reidi. L.A. KING and J. LIN. Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, 150 W.
University Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901. Seahorses (Hippocampus) are members of the Syngnathidae family are in great need

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of conservation because of overexploitation (due to traditional medicine, aquarium trade, and curios), habitat loss (seagrass
beds, mangroves, and coral reefs), and accidental bycatch (crab traps) (Koldewey and Martin-Smith, 2009). As a result of the
high demand for wild caught seahorses all Hippocampus species are listed on the IUCN red list and the CITES (Convention
on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) Appendix II (Rosa et al., 2005). Seahorse
aquaculture has been established as a way to relieve the pressures of wild caught populations. Seahorse aquaculture, however,
has experienced problems with juvenile survival due to disease and appropriate diet (Koldewey and Martin-Smith, 2010).
Like other teleost fish, how seahorses perceive its environment is vital for prey capture, predator avoidance, and mate
selection (Levine and MacNichol, 1982). Seahorses are known to be a visual predator (waiting for their prey items to pass by
in water currents); however, little is known about the visual system, in particular the retina of the seahorse. This study uses
anti-opsin immunofluorescence to look at rod and cone photoreceptor distribution and abundance within the retina of two
important aquarium species, the lined seahorse (H. erectus) and the long snout seahorse (H. reidi) at different developmental
stages (3 juvenile and 1 adult). The objective of this study is to determine whether photoreceptor distribution/abundance
changes with age and differ between the two species. Preliminary results reveal that newly released fry are rod dominated,
but cone abundance increases with age.
BIO-19 Temporal changes in retinal architecture of the Atlantic tarpon, Megalops atlanticus. K.L. KOPPERUD and
M.S. GRACE. Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology, 150 W. University Blvd, Melbourne, FL
32901. Biological clocks and the rhythms they produce are fundamental to eukaryotic life, allowing organisms to anticipate
change in their environments. While many physiological and behavioral life processes may change in direct response to
external influence, most also change over time because of internal timekeeping mechanisms – biological clocks. Extensive
research has defined the anatomical locations and molecular make-up of clocks in people and some lab animals, and we know
much about how circadian rhythms become synchronized to the daily light-dark cycle, but we understand very little about the
functional utility of clocks and rhythms in the natural world. Therefore, the aims of my research are to elucidate biological
rhythms of visual function in an ecologically and economically important marine fish, to identify how these rhythms develop
over time, and to determine how changing visual function may support survival of marine fish in a changing environment.
The fish being studied, the Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus), is one of the most sought-after game fish on Earth. Tarpon
are exceptional models for studying how retinal structure and function adjust to a changing light environment because they
undergo particularly dramatic shifts in ecological niche as they mature from larvae to adults. These habitat shifts are
accompanied by similarly dramatic alterations in retinal photoreceptor cell type and distribution. Further, there is evidence
that rod and cone photoreceptor cells actually reposition within the retina in response to light availability and/or an internal
biological clock (a phenomenon called “retinomotor movements”). Elucidating the mechanisms of change in retinal
architecture and function will help us to define the roles of endogenous clocks in driving the retinal rhythms of retinomotor
movements. This work is ultimately aimed not only at a better understanding of vision generally, but also at the conservation
of important marine species in the face of continuing, rapid coastal development and climate change. (Funding provided by
Florida Institute of Technology)
BIO-20 Experimental hybridization between two genera of subtropical sea urchins in Tampa Bay:Arbacia
punctulata and Lytechinus variegatus. E.M. MEADOWS and S. A. RICE. Department of Biology, University of Tampa, 401
W. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606. Two genera of subtropical sea urchins, Arbacia punctulata and Lytechinus variegatus
are local to the Tampa Bay area. The urchin A. punctulata is typically found in deep coastal waters in the Gulf of Mexico,
and the urchin L. variegatus typically inhabits the inshore sea grass beds of Tampa Bay. A. punctulata has recently expanded
its range to include the shallow coastal waters of Tampa Bay and now overlaps that of the urchin L. variegatus. The two
species broadcast spawn during the same season and hybrid embryos, both L. variegatus sperm with A. punctulata eggs and
A. punctulata sperm with L. variegatus eggs, have been generated and raised in the laboratory up to the pluteus larval stage.
In order to determine if the two genera are hybridizing in the field, specimens from Tampa Bay have been collected,
acclimated to lab conditions, spawned, and the morphometrics of the larvae from four crosses, including two within species
crosses used as controls and the two experimental hybrid crosses, have been examined at both the light and electron
microscopy level.
BIO-20 Setal morphology of grooming appendages of the spider crab, Libinia dubia. A. LAVELLE, J. JEDLIKA,
J. WORTHAM. University of Tampa, College of Natural and Health Sciences, Department of Biology, 401 W Kennedy
Blvd., Tampa, FL, 33606. In crustaceans, grooming behaviors decrease fouling by removing debris from the exoskeleton and

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