Laura Enzor and Adam Silver Receive CT Sea Grant

This summer, Professors Enzor and Silver were awarded a Connecticut Sea Grant from the University of Connecticut to support a yearlong research project entitled “Exploration of Microplastics as a Vector for Pathogenic Vibrio Infection of Eastern Oyster, Crassostrea virginica, in Response to the Interactive Stressors of Elevated Temperature and Lowered Salinity." According to research conducted by Drs. Enzor and Silver, microplastic debris is common in oceanic environments and is ingested by oysters. The two professors of biology aim to study the immune response of the Eastern oyster to microplastics to better understand the impact of the debris on the health of oyster populations.

Another goal of this project is to examine the growth of harmful strains of Vibrio bacteria, which have been shown to form on the surface of microplastic debris. As Vibrio bacteria can contaminate oysters and infect humans who consume oysters, Drs. Enzor and Silver will explore the implications of rising oceanic temperatures and lower salinity levels that create ideal conditions for Vibrio bacteria to multiply rapidly. The study will investigate 1) if changes in temperature and salinity result in the proliferation of a harmful strain of Vibrio bacteria on microplastics, and 2) whether microplastics are a vector for Vibrio infection in Eastern oyster populations.

Professor Enzor has designed an experimental system in her lab at the University of Hartford where all phases of the study will take place. Results from this project have implications for the future of the ocean’s ecosystem and for the commercial fishing industry. Key findings will be shared with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Agriculture for use in the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.

The University of Hartford’s Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) assists principal investigators with securing and managing grants, subawards, and contracts. For more information, or for assistance with a grant or contract, please contact OSP at ospgrants@hartford.edu.