Mariculture Research in Alaska: A Look at Oyster Adaptation and Environmental Monitoring

Ella Skonieczny, a rising senior at Eckerd College double majoring in marine science and environmental studies, recently concluded a summer internship at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center Ted Stevens Marine Research Institute in Juneau, Alaska. During her time as a 2025 Hollings scholar, Skonieczny worked alongside fellow intern Alleyah Britton and mentor Becca within the mariculture team to support a collaborative research project between NOAA and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in Canada. The primary objective of this study is to investigate how food availability for Pacific oysters (*Crassostrea gigas*) influences their capacity to survive and adapt to external environmental stressors, specifically large temperature fluctuations involving both heat and cold. Data collected from this research aims to inform the future of the growing mariculture industry in Alaska, providing critical insights into optimal farm locations and the specific conditions under which oysters thrive. Fieldwork for the project involved extensive hands-on experience, including collecting water samples to survey chlorophyll-a levels, nutrients, and monitor for harmful algal bloom species. Skonieczny also participated in kelp harvesting off the coast of Juneau, driving small skiffs to and from the farm, and collecting and sampling salmon at a fish weir. Additionally, she aided in whale tagging efforts and dive operations. Beyond field research, Skonieczny contributed to environmental communication by creating informational products, including an algae poster and oyster illustrations, and assisting with outreach tables. The internship emphasized experiential learning, allowing the scholar to engage directly with the supportive community at NOAA in Juneau. Skonieczny expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity, noting that the experience has provided her with significant skill building and a sense of belonging. She stated, "I could not be more grateful for this experience. I have truly found such a supportive, welcoming, and caring community here at NOAA in Juneau, Alaska. It will always be a place that I can call home." The research highlights the intersection of academic study and practical application in marine conservation and aquaculture. By understanding the relationship between food availability and thermal stress tolerance in Pacific oysters, the project seeks to ensure the sustainability of oyster farms in Alaska's dynamic marine environment. #NexSouk #AIForGood #EthicalAI #MarineScience #OysterFarming **References** 1. NOAA Office of Education. "Mariculture in Alaska! Reflecting on my time spent in the hatchery and creating a home in Juneau, Alaska." https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/hollings-scholarship/stories/mariculture-in-alaska-reflecting-on-my-time-spent-in-hatchery-and-creating-home-in-juneau-alaska 2. NOAA Fisheries. "2026 interns." https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/hollings-scholarship/stories/mariculture-in-alaska-reflecting-on-my-time-spent-in-hatchery-and-creating-home-in-juneau-alaska 3. NOAA Hollings Scholarship Program. "Project summary." https://www.noaa.gov/office-education/hollings-scholarship/stories/mariculture-in-alaska-reflecting-on-my-time-spent-in-hatchery-and-creating-home-in-juneau-alaska